Final answer:
The correct answer is option (A) A type of Japanese Buddhist chanting.
Step-by-step explanation:
Shomyo is a type of Japanese Buddhist chanting; it is characterized by melodic phrasing of Buddhist scriptures. This practice dates back to around the 7th century CE and is deeply entwined with the religious traditions of Japan. During a time in which Buddhism began to take hold as a state religion alongside the native Shintoism, various forms of Buddhist expression began to be integrated into the spiritual culture of the country. Shomyo, with its captivating and reflective melodies, is one such form that has continued to play a role in the spiritual practices of Japanese Buddhism.
In the context of Japanese religious practice, Shomyo represents a blend of religiosity that characterizes the nation's history. Aside from Chan Buddhism, which is recognized as Zen Buddhism in Japan and focuses primarily on meditation, Japan has a rich tradition of supporting a variety of Buddhist practices including Tendai and Shingon Buddhism.
Shomyo chanting is one of the many cultural treasures that have been preserved and still practiced in modern-day Japan, reflecting the influence of Buddhism that has been significant since Empress Suiko's reign in the 6th century when Buddhism was pronounced as a state religion.