Shinran’s teachings are not just an important part of Buddhist history; they carry profound relevance for contemporary society. In a world that continues to grapple with issues of inequality, exclusion, and division, Shinran’s message of universal accessibility to awakening offers a beacon of hope and transformation.

Shinran recognized the importance of Eshinni not only as his wife but also as a fellow practitioner who was capable of achieving spiritual awakening. His decision to marry, and his public acknowledgment of Eshinni’s spiritual contributions, challenged traditional notions of gender roles in religion and established a progressive model for women’s involvement in the spiritual community.

Prior to Shinran, Pure Land practices were often reserved for monks and other elite religious practitioners, and the recitation of the nembutsu was considered a spiritual tool primarily for those with high levels of discipline and moral conduct. However, Shinran’s innovation was in his emphasis that spiritual awakening was accessible to all.