Hōjōki: A Hermit’s Hut as Metaphor (2nd Edition)

Hōjōki is an extended meditation on the impermanence of the world and the danger of attachment. Written by the reclusive monk Kamo no Chōmei at the dawn of the thirteenth century, this classic work of Japanese literature is celebrated for its linguistic simplicity and philosophical depth. Using the house as a metaphor for worldly attachment, Chōmei encourages readers not to cling to possessions, status, or social recognition. Simplicity and self-reliance, he argues, are the keys to extinguishing desire and finding inner peace. Although Hōjōki is unmistakably inspired by Buddhist ideas, its message is both universal and timeless.This second edition includes the Japanese source text and English translation, original images, maps, and notes. The companion website provides a variety of digital resources and learning materials: www.kyotohistory.com/hojoki