圣德太子致隋国书与净土教在日本的传播

The Credence to Sui Dynasty by Prince Sheng De and Pure Land Religion Spread in Japan

根据遣隋使的背景及其目的、净土教在日本的盛行以及日本对隋朝使节的热情接待,称隋朝为“西”,是一种褒义的双关语,既是方位的指称,又暗喻西方净土世界。在日本最高统治者的外交辞令上,称隋朝为西方,既符合地理方位,又具有宗教赞誉,是净土思想在外交上的具体运用。

According to the background and aim of visiting scholars to Sui Dynasty, the popularity of Pure Land Religion in Japan and the warm reception to the visiting scholars of Sui Dynasty in Japan, I think calling Sui Dynasty 'West' is a commendatory pun. It not only means the orientation but also implies the pure land world of the West. In the diplomatic letter written by the Japanese highest governor, it not only represents the geographical location but has the praise of religion, and it is the practical use of Pure Land Thoughts in the diplomacy, too.