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Philosophically Tomomochi was strongly influenced by Masatomo, and evidence he left of this includes a copy of the Lotus Sutra that he had hand-copied.
Masatomo spoke to all his employees, starting with Tomomochi, about the proper attitude and principles that should guide people in the conduct of business. His words have been passed down to us today in many forms, including letters that he wrote. One example is the Monju-in Shiigaki, which Masatomo wrote late in life. The list of five precepts begins with the words, "You may think this goes without saying, but every act of work should be performed whole-heartedly and with consideration for others." It cautions against running after immediate profit, extols the virtue of steadfastness, and remonstrates against such things as quarrelling with others. Behind every item lies the influence of the Nehan School teachings that Masatomo dedicated his life to.
As these stories show, the history of Sumitomo begins with Masatomo as the founder of the House of Sumitomo and Riemon as the initiator of its larger business ventures. Four centuries later, many reasons can be cited for Sumitomo's resilience in withstanding the trials and tribulations it has faced over time. Many are the elements that have supported its development; but there is little doubt that a major one is the way generation after generation of Sumitomo employees have followed the guiding business principles set out by Sumitomo Masatomo.
In the "Sumitomo business spirit," his teachings are still alive and well. |
