Final answer:
The Nichiren Shu sect is part of the Mahayana Buddhism tradition and is a continuation of the Buddhist practices in Japan, which were firmly established during the sixth century under Empress Suiko. With imperial support for varieties of Buddhism, including Tendai and Shingon, and historical developments like the Taika Reforms, the stage was set for the birth of sects like Nichiren Shu.
Step-by-step explanation:
Historical Links of the Nichiren Shu Sect
The Nichiren Shu sect, which emerged in Japan during the thirteenth century, has deep historical roots within the broader context of Japanese Buddhism and the intertwining of religious practices in the country's history. Establishing any direct links to Nichiren Shu through the provided reference materials is challenging, as they focus predominantly on earlier periods and different Buddhist traditions. However, it can be gleaned that the sect belongs to the Mahayana branch of Buddhism and represents a continuation of the Buddhist tradition in Japan, which was cemented as a state religion under Empress Suiko with the support of Prince Shotoku in the sixth century. Throughout subsequent periods, including the Nara and Heian periods, Buddhism evolved and diversified, setting the stage for later developments such as the rise of Nichiren Shu.
Different forms of Buddhism, including Tendai and Shingon, gained imperial support, coexisting alongside Shintoism, the indigenous religion of Japan. Historical shifts, such as the integration of Buddhism into the fabric of Japanese society and court practices, influenced the social and religious landscape, ultimately contributing to the emergence of new sects including Nichiren Shu. The Taika Reforms and the cultural synthesis during the Nara Period further solidified the presence of Buddhism and showcase the complex interplay between state, religion, and societal transformation within Japan's history.