April 28

Events - Society & Lifestyle

1253day.year

Nichiren, a Japanese Buddhist monk, propounds Namu Myōhō Renge Kyō for the first time and declares it to be the essence of Buddhism, in effect founding Nichiren Buddhism.

Nichiren declared Namu Myōhō Renge Kyō as the essence of Buddhism, founding Nichiren Buddhism in 1253.
Standing by the seashore on April 28, 1253, the Japanese monk Nichiren proclaimed the chant Namu Myōhō Renge Kyō to be the true essence of the Lotus Sutra. This declaration laid the foundation for what would become Nichiren Buddhism. Nichiren emphasized direct faith and devotion, rejecting practices he saw as corrupt. His teachings challenged the religious establishment of his day and attracted both followers and opponents. Despite periods of exile and persecution, his doctrine endured through dedicated disciples. Nichiren Buddhism later spread beyond Japan and remains a vibrant tradition within Mahayana Buddhism.
1253 Nichiren Buddhist Namu Myōhō Renge Kyō Nichiren Buddhism
1611day.year

Establishment of the Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas, the Catholic University of the Philippines and the largest Catholic university in the world.

The University of Santo Tomas, the world's largest Catholic university, was established in the Philippines in 1611.
On April 28, 1611, Spanish Dominican friars founded the Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas in Manila. Recognized today as the oldest existing university in Asia, it also holds the title of the largest Catholic institution of higher learning. Originally dedicated to theology and philosophy studies, the university gradually expanded its academic offerings to include medicine, law, and the sciences. Over centuries, it has produced notable leaders, scholars, and national heroes. Its campus, adorned with Baroque and Neoclassical architecture, reflects its rich colonial heritage. UST remains a premier center for education and cultural life in the Philippines.
1611 University of Santo Tomas Catholic university