Was there ever a time when Buddhism was militant?

Answer 1

I think that this would depend on how one defines both "Buddhism" and "militant." And religion often gets tied up in other issues, like nationalism, and then is used for purposes beyond its original intention.

There are those who claim to be Buddhist and who take a "militant" position with regard to their views.

One of the largest schools of Japanese Buddhism, known as Nichiren Buddhism, developed in the thirteenth century under the leadership of prophet Nichiren. Because of his strong opinions and warnings of other religions and his active participation in many debates, he has often been (erroneously) labeled as "militant".

Today the Nichiren Shoshu sect of Japan (better known as Soka Gakkai (the Value Creation Society), which developed prominance following WWII, is considered militant. They are profiled in a book Noah Brannen entitled "Soka Gakkai: Japan's Militant Buddhists" (1968).

Answer 2

The Ikko-ikki monks of the 16th century, due largely to their origins as countryside mobs, were quite varied in their armor and armament. Many wore the more traditional monk robes, with varying degrees and types of armor. Many wore various sorts of helmets, while many others opted for the straw hat and cloak of a peasant. Naginata remained very common, along with a variety of swords and daggers, and a limited number of arquebuses. Finally, while not truly armor nor armament, a very common item wielded by the mobs of Ikko-ikki monk warriors was a banner with a Buddhist slogan written upon it. Some of the more common 'slogans' were the nembutsu chant 'Hail to the Amida Buddha!' (Namu Amida Butsu; 南無阿弥陀仏) and 'Renounce this defiled world and attain the Pure Land.'.

Answer 3

There is a militant Buddhist web page so I guess so.
http://www.militant-buddhist.com/

Answer 4

I'm fairly sure that page angel posted was a joke...

But to your question, no. Buddhism is a pacifist religion.

Answer 5

Try the first testament

Answer 6

Most definitely not.

Answer 7

Not that I know of...

Answer 8

no