#Japan #Tokyo #Religion #Kinokuniya #Taisyo University

Special Seminar on Salvation and Death

On June 15, 2025, a unique seminar titled ‘Why Do We Seek Salvation? Beyond Death’ will take place at the famed Kinokuniya Bookstore Shinjuku in Tokyo, organized by Taisyo University's attached library. This initiative is part of the university's richer educational program aimed at fostering community learning spaces, termed the ‘Learning Community’. This program, initiated in 2020, originally catered exclusively to enrolled students. Starting from the 2025 academic year, it will welcome students from elementary, junior high, and high schools, as well as local residents, allowing everyone to participate freely and at no cost.

This seminar marks a significant milestone in Taisyo University’s commitment to providing educational opportunities to a wider audience. The event's speaker will be Satoshi Shimazono, a distinguished religious studies scholar and visiting professor at Taisyo University. He will guide discussions exploring the significance of salvation as presented in the world’s three major religions: Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam. Participants will delve into why these faiths have maintained their influence and enduring followings over centuries.

Additionally, the seminar will address the increasing number of individuals today who seem to reject traditional teachings of salvation. By inviting participants to share their thoughts, this event aims to create a platform for meaningful reflections on concepts surrounding ‘salvation’ and ‘the afterlife’ from diverse perspectives.

Key Highlights of the Event

1. Community Engagement: Starting from 2025, the seminar aims to offer accessible learning platforms to a broader segment of society, including students and community members.
2. Renowned Speaker: The event will feature Satoshi Shimazono, an eminent scholar, fostering an engaging dialogue on spiritual themes.
3. Free Participation: Open to anyone interested, emphasizing the importance of community learning.

Event Details

• - Title: Why Do We Seek Salvation? Beyond Death
• - Date: June 15, 2025
• - Time: 14:00 - 15:30
• - Location: 3rd Floor, Academic Lounge, Kinokuniya Bookstore Shinjuku
• - Cost: Free
• - Lecturer: Satoshi Shimazono, Visiting Professor at Taisyo University
• - Organizer: Taisyo University Attached Library

Registration

To register for the seminar, please follow the QR code provided at the event's announcement. Spaces are limited, and registration will close once the capacity is reached.
Registration Link: Form Link

Contact Information

For inquiries regarding the event, please contact the Taisyo University Attached Library at 03-5394-3028 during business hours (Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM).

About the Speaker: Satoshi Shimazono

Satoshi Shimazono serves as a visiting professor and is well-respected in the field of religious studies. He is a former professor at the University of Tokyo and has extensive expertise in modern Japanese religious history, religious theories, and the philosophy of life and death. His publication portfolio includes several influential works discussing the role of religion in Japanese society and beyond.

About Taisyo University

Founded in 1926, Taisyo University is collaboratively run by four major Buddhist sects, focusing on the core principles of wisdom and compassion. The institution promotes educational initiatives grounded in Buddhist values encouraging students to strive for personal development while contributing positively to the community.
You can find out more on their official website.