Hōnen was a Japanese Buddhist monk who lived during the late 12th century. He is best known for founding the Pure Land Buddhism school in Japan, which emphasizes devotion to the Amitābha Buddha. Hōnen taught that by sincerely chanting the nembutsu, or the phrase "Namu Amida Butsu," individuals could attain enlightenment and be reborn in the Pure Land, a place of bliss and spiritual fulfillment. His teachings were revolutionary, as they made Buddhist practice accessible to everyone, regardless of their social status or level of education. Hōnen's approach encouraged a personal relationship with the Buddha and emphasized faith over complex rituals, leading to a significant shift in Japanese Buddhism.