A Journey Of Spiritual Endurance
Imagine the longest and toughest endurance event you could possibly think of, then imagine signing an ultimatum that you will voluntarily take your own life if you cannot complete the challenge. This is exactly what the marathon monks embark upon, in order to reach enlightenment.. do you think you'd be able to complete the deathly challenge?
Year 1: Run 18 miles each day, for 100 days straight Year 2: Run 18 miles each day, for 100 days straight Year 3: Run 18 miles each day, for 100 days straight Year 4: Run 18 miles each day, for 200 days straight Year 5: Run 18 miles each day, for 200 days straight, followed by 9 days of no food, no water and no sleep (two monks stand beside him to ensure he does not fall asleep) Year 6: Run 37 miles each day, for 100 days straight Year 7: Run 52 miles each day, for 100 days straight
In the serene mountains of Japan (Mount Hiei), a group of dedicated monks embark on an extraordinary journey of physical and spiritual endurance known as the Kaihōgyō. For over a thousand years, these devout practitioners have pushed the boundaries of human capability, testing their mental and physical strength through a gruelling marathon-like challenge. In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating world of the Japanese Marathon Monks and explore the profound spiritual significance behind their incredible feats.
The Origins of Kaihōgyō:
The Kaihōgyō, which translates to "circling the mountain," has its roots in the practice of Shugendō, a blend of Buddhism and indigenous Japanese beliefs. This unique tradition was established in the 9th century by a renowned monk named Ennin, who sought to cultivate discipline and deepen his spiritual connection through physical exertion. Due to the nature of how difficult the 7 year process is, it's believed that only those that complete it without dying have reached true enlightenment. The Challenge:
The ultimate goal of the Kaihōgyō is to complete a series of physical challenges over a period of seven years. The monks begin with a 100-day pilgrimage, followed by increasingly demanding stages that involve continuously walking or running (past gravestones for those that died trying or took their own life) for extended periods while reciting mantras and prayers. The pinnacle of the challenge is the completion of 1,000 days of walking over a seven-year period, covering a distance equivalent to circling the Earth twice.
To make the challenge EVEN MORE difficult, you might be thinking: Well Alex, what state of the art Nike running trainers are they wearing in order to complete this gruesome task?
As you can see, they are state of the art Nike sandals, with ultimate durability made from the finest material sourced: straw. So durable, that they literally go through 4-5 pairs a day.
Okay, well the shoes are a bit questionable but surely they're re-feeding themselves properly? Please tell me they are tracking their protein intake on myfitnesspal???
The monks consume only 1000-2000 calories every day, on a vegetarian diet predominantly consisting of rice, miso soup and green tea... lol. The challenge gets more and more unbelievable.
So why are they even doing this?
Spiritual Significance: The Kaihōgyō is not merely a test of physical endurance; it is a profound spiritual quest. The monks undertake this arduous journey to achieve enlightenment, transcend their own limitations, and deepen their understanding of the interconnectedness of all things. Through extreme physical exertion and deprivation, they aim to detach themselves from worldly desires and enter a state of spiritual awakening.
The Role of Meditation: Meditation plays a crucial role in the practice of the Marathon Monks. During their long and solitary walks, the monks engage in meditation techniques that help them maintain focus, calm their minds, and remain present in the moment. This meditative state allows them to connect with their inner selves and experience profound spiritual insights. The Importance of Discipline: Discipline is a fundamental aspect of the Kaihōgyō. The monks adhere to strict rules, including rigorous training, fasting, and sleep deprivation. By practicing self-control and overcoming physical discomfort, they cultivate discipline as a means to attain spiritual growth. This unwavering commitment to their path is a testament to their dedication and determination (hence agreeing to commit suicide if they start and give up, this also stops anybody from attempting the task who is not truly reached enlightenment).
Since 1885, only 46 monks have completed the challenge, with many dying through failure of completion.
Lessons for Modern Life While the Kaihōgyō may seem extreme to many, there are valuable lessons we can learn from the Marathon Monks. Their journey teaches us the importance of perseverance, self-discipline, and the power of the mind in overcoming challenges. It reminds us that true transformation often requires stepping out of our comfort zones and pushing beyond our perceived limits.
It's funny, because in the west, the pinnacle of peak endurance for running would be completing a marathon, this is almost perceived as an impossible task to a lot of people because the standard is so low. I guess what I'm saying is look what they have managed to achieve, it makes the marathon seem like a stroll in the park. This is why it is important to raise your standards and surround yourself with ambitious people because we, as humans, are capable of so much. The Japanese Marathon Monks represent a living testament to the power of faith, endurance, and spiritual devotion. Their incredible feats of physical and mental strength inspire us to reflect on our own lives and the potential for growth and transformation within ourselves. The Kaihōgyō serves as a timeless reminder that the path to enlightenment is often found through perseverance, discipline, and a deep connection with the inner self.
Kings Hill, Personal Trainer.
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