biwa hōshi

The term "biwa hōshi" refers to blind Japanese Buddhist monks who were itinerant performers. They specialized in chanting narratives accompanied by the biwa, a short-necked Japanese lute with a pear-shaped body. These monks played a significant role in preserving and disseminating traditional Japanese stories and music.1

The biwa itself is related to the Chinese pipa and has evolved into various forms, each with specialized uses. The mōsōbiwa, used by these monks, was particularly associated with chanting sutras and epic tales, such as those from the Heike Monogatari. This tradition highlights the intersection of religious practice, musical performance, and storytelling in Japanese culture.12