War and Faith

Discover the intricate tapestry of power struggles in Japan during the Sengoku era in "War and Faith" by Carol Richmond Tsang, published by Harvard University in 2007. This compelling hardcover book spans 275 pages, providing an in-depth exploration of the tumultuous interactions between warlords and religious institutions. Tsang examines the role of the Honganji branch of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism as it incited the ikko ikki uprisings, where bands of commoners rose to fight for freedom and justice. Through a nuanced lens, Tsang delves into the often contradictory relationship between these factions, shedding light on the historical significance of armed struggles in the context of Buddhism and the broader socio-political landscape of Asia. Ideal for history enthusiasts and scholars alike, "War and Faith" delivers an engaging analysis of how faith and warfare intertwined during this profound period in Japanese history.