Priest and His Disciples (Shaw Translation)

Written in 1919 during the Great War, 'The Priest and His Disciples' is a philosophical play by Hyakuzō Kurata, exploring the life and teachings of the 13th-century Buddhist priest Shinran. The narrative follows Shinran as he engages with a poor family, discussing how to navigate life's challenges amidst turmoil. The play uniquely blends Eastern and Western philosophies, reflecting Kurata's iconoclastic views and the socio-political climate of early 20th-century Japan. It has gained significant popularity for its profound insights into spirituality and human experience.