Taishi Shotoku

Taishi Shōtoku was a semi-legendary prince who served as a regent for his aunt, Empress Suiko, from 593 to 622. He is regarded as one of the most influential figures in Japanese history, as he promoted the adoption of Buddhism, Confucianism, and Chinese culture in Japan. He also established a centralized government system, a rank and cap system for court officials, and a diplomatic relationship with China. He is credited with writing the Seventeen-article constitution, a set of ethical and political principles for the Japanese state, and the Sangyō Gisho, a commentary on three Buddhist scriptures. He is also said to have written many other works, such as the Hokke Gisho and the Hossō Gisho, but their authenticity is disputed. He is revered as a cultural hero, a Buddhist patron, and a civilizing ruler by many Japanese. He is also regarded as an incarnation of the bodhisattva Avalokiteśvara by some Buddhist sects. He is said to have been buried at Shinaga in Kawachi Province (modern Osaka Prefecture). Legends claim that he had supernatural powers, such as the ability to speak at birth, to understand the languages of birds and animals, and to appear in multiple places at once.