Waipahu Hongwanji Mission was established in 1901 and is a member temple of the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii which belongs to the Jodo Shinshu (or True Pure Land) sect, the largest branch of Buddhism in Japan.  

          Founded by Shinran Shonin (1173-1263), Shin Buddhism emphasizes that salvation and enlightenment is attained through faith alone rather than reliance on one's own efforts.

         Shinran Shonin was greatly influenced by the Larger Sukhavativyuha Sutra.  This Larger Sutra speaks of Amida Buddha's Primal Vow in which the Buddha promised to save all sentient beings, without discrimination, who call his Name in true faith.  The essence of Shin Buddhism is to awaken to the karmic reality that despite the stresses of human existence, we are embraced by the infinite compassion of the Buddha.  Our gratitude is expressed through saying Namu Amida Butsu - meaning "I take refuge in Amida Buddha", this is known as the Nembutsu.

                                     “With Countenance benign
                                     With Words gentle and kind"

                                             Dai-Muryoji-Kyo
                                   Larger Sukhavatifyuha Sutra