Tenrei bansho meigi is the oldest surviving Japanese dictionary of Chinese characters. The manuscript owned by Kosanji was compiled between 830 and 1114 and is the only existing copy, making it extremely valuable for scholars. The dictionary was completed in 830 by Kukai (774–835), the founder of esoteric Shingon Buddhism . It is based on an ancient Chinese dictionary, Yupian, that Kukai brought to Japan after studying in China. Kukai was also a renowned scholar, poet, and calligrapher.
Yupian
A classic dictionary of ancient China (30 volumes, established in 543). The Chinese manuscript was soon lost, and the work only transmitted through the Japanese tradition. The portion owned by Kosanji Temple is designated as a national treasure.
Shingon Buddhism
A Buddhist sect founded by Kukai, who established Mt. Koya as a place of worship.
Kukai
A Heian Era priest (774-835). Also known as Kobo Daishi. He is the founder of the Shingon sect and one of the three great calligraphers of the day.
