noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
salvation through one's own efforts; self-reliance
Originally a Pure Land Buddhist term contrasting self-power (自力) with reliance on Amida's vow (他力). In modern usage, it often refers to a mindset of achieving things by one's own efforts without depending on others.
彼は自力本願の精神で事業を立ち上げた。
He started his business with a self-reliant spirit.
浄土真宗では、自力本願ではなく他力本願が説かれる。
In Jodo Shinshu, salvation through other-power, not self-power, is taught.