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From Miki Nakura:

Honen Shonin spent many years practicing Tendai disciplines on Mount Hiei, even reading all the sutras five times, diligently seeking the path to salvation for all sentient beings. Yet, he did not attain salvation through this. However, at the age of 43, he finally encountered the teaching of Amida Buddha's original vow, "Simply recite the Nembutsu," and was saved.

Two days before his death, Honen Shonin left behind the final words attached here. It is a famous text called the Ichimai Kishomon (One-Sheet Testament). Please read it carefully.

Moreover, Chapter 12 of the Tannisho states the following:

Some hold the view that those who do not read or study the sutras and commentaries will not be assured of attaining rebirth in the Pure Land. This view is not worth taking seriously. Various scriptures that make clear the truth of  the other-power stress that we are certain to attain buddhahood only when we have faith in the Original Vow and recall the Name. So for rebirth in the Pure Land what else do we need to study?

To be sure, those who are uncertain of this truth ought to study hard if they wish to grasp the purport of the Original Vow. But how pitiful indeed if, after all their reading and study of the sutras and commentaries, they still fail to grasp the real meaning! Because the Name can easily be repeated by those who are unlettered and ignorant of what the sutras and commentaries mean, it is called the easy path; whereas the path of sages, being founded upon learning, is called the difficult path. .....................

Nowadays some appear to study only in preparation to engage in disputes and controversies and to counter the calumny of others. But the more one studies the more one should realize the true intention of the Buddha and become aware of the infinitude of his compassionate vow as well. Only he is worthy of the name of scholar who explains to those in doubt that, as poorly gifted people, they can attain rebirth, and that the Original Vow makes no distinction between good and evil, pure and impure. Anyone who asserts that study is necessary, intimidating even those in whom the Name is called selflessly in accord with the Vow, is a diabolical obstruction to the Dharma and an adversary of the Buddha. Not only does such a person lack faith in the other-power, but he is also sure to lead others into error. We should be particularly cautious about acting against the intentions of our late Master. At the same time such opponents are to be pitied for not being in accord with Amida’s Original Vow.

In other words, those who can read should certainly study the scriptures, commentaries and writings on Dharma, but they are not saved by the knowledge gained from that study. Conversely, there are many illiterate farmers, craftsmen and housewives who, unable to read even a single scripture, sincerely listened to the Buddhist teachings, developed faith, and were completely saved spiritually. Such people are called myokonin. Saichi is famous, but I like Genza, the farmer, the most. I always learn deeply from Genza.

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