Chanting Growers Group
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I feel compelled to speak here. It's a difficult subject to breach and I would ignore it but I feel I have to in Buddhist thread where truth seems paramount.
the fractures and the rise to polarize Buddhism under a name and the seeming conflict is a complete turn off
I don't want to be critical but I feel, out of respect and honor for those that really believe it that you need to know how it feels for a prospect such as myself
The call to be part of and the ensuing knowledge of the differential that even exists between Buddhist organizations should not be one of the first things I learn about
that type of actions comes off as an ulterior motive and if I had not live a complete lifetime knowingly giving out of respect for the sanctity of life I would mistake it myself as untempered commitment to self (that is it could easily be seen by many that the motive is for the sole benefit of the person getting you to enlist.enroll)
I understand the expedient need for people to have an opportunity for enlightenment in this lifetime and the desire to share with them what you have found.
but it seems almost obvious that these organizations are vying for power through membership and then that leads me to think about what are the motives.
I feels to me that the the simple prospect of membership is for chanters and this is because it mean spiritual power in numbers
now all this may be a misinterpretation but thats the type of things that I am led to believe just because of the inferences
i came here because I was called and invited, I came here to share in a very open honest spiritual vibe
my belief is that it is a a false hope that anything but the compassionate selfless chanting of nam myoho renge kyo can enlighten one instantly or really call to another persons heart
the mystical law only works when it is based on absolute truth
nichiren said DO NOT LOOK OUTSIDE for the law
i feel he meant outside yourself and your heart and I believe nichiren said this because this is where the gohnozon does indeed lie and this is where he wrote it from
I somehow feel the true buddha would find a way to make the conflicting energies harmonize
if the complete knowledge of the spontaneous law of cause and effect are so well known to anyone simply say but one chant and start the domino effect of truth that should harmonize us all and if there is not ONE among you that can do so I suggest we all simply chant for truth in the name of truth and according to the will of the truth because regardless of the law of cause and effect is entirely reliant on the eternal truth regardless of how we decide to spend our energies while living this life
why do you so seek the enlightenment of others? because it makes YOU a great buddha or THEM a great buddha?
I never required payment for selflessly giving and thats why enlightenment was such a gift because it was not expected or required
do you think i did not understand cause and effect? or was it that I did not understand how cause and effect worked in YOU.
the synergy between others, the one where we instill truth and see it come back, thats what enlightenment meant to me
that the gift i had was in others and visa versa
I almost feel as if I conscribe to any one branch of Buddhism I am furthering the divide and damning myself to delusion
now I am very sorry for this message and I apologize but I think that if this is a chanting growers group where people are observing the laws of cause and effect and trying to learn how applying nichiren buddhism would benefit perhaps we need to cultivate selfless giving and understanding and not the politics
i will remove this message and leave the thread if this is offensive to anyone
I know that the people who share and contribute are true and good people and good buddhists it just that having to gather under different banners for the same cause seems counterintuitive to nichirens doctrine
the fractures and the rise to polarize Buddhism under a name and the seeming conflict is a complete turn off
I don't want to be critical but I feel, out of respect and honor for those that really believe it that you need to know how it feels for a prospect such as myself
The call to be part of and the ensuing knowledge of the differential that even exists between Buddhist organizations should not be one of the first things I learn about
that type of actions comes off as an ulterior motive and if I had not live a complete lifetime knowingly giving out of respect for the sanctity of life I would mistake it myself as untempered commitment to self (that is it could easily be seen by many that the motive is for the sole benefit of the person getting you to enlist.enroll)
I understand the expedient need for people to have an opportunity for enlightenment in this lifetime and the desire to share with them what you have found.
but it seems almost obvious that these organizations are vying for power through membership and then that leads me to think about what are the motives.
I feels to me that the the simple prospect of membership is for chanters and this is because it mean spiritual power in numbers
now all this may be a misinterpretation but thats the type of things that I am led to believe just because of the inferences
i came here because I was called and invited, I came here to share in a very open honest spiritual vibe
my belief is that it is a a false hope that anything but the compassionate selfless chanting of nam myoho renge kyo can enlighten one instantly or really call to another persons heart
the mystical law only works when it is based on absolute truth
nichiren said DO NOT LOOK OUTSIDE for the law
i feel he meant outside yourself and your heart and I believe nichiren said this because this is where the gohnozon does indeed lie and this is where he wrote it from
I somehow feel the true buddha would find a way to make the conflicting energies harmonize
if the complete knowledge of the spontaneous law of cause and effect are so well known to anyone simply say but one chant and start the domino effect of truth that should harmonize us all and if there is not ONE among you that can do so I suggest we all simply chant for truth in the name of truth and according to the will of the truth because regardless of the law of cause and effect is entirely reliant on the eternal truth regardless of how we decide to spend our energies while living this life
why do you so seek the enlightenment of others? because it makes YOU a great buddha or THEM a great buddha?
I never required payment for selflessly giving and thats why enlightenment was such a gift because it was not expected or required
do you think i did not understand cause and effect? or was it that I did not understand how cause and effect worked in YOU.
the synergy between others, the one where we instill truth and see it come back, thats what enlightenment meant to me
that the gift i had was in others and visa versa
I almost feel as if I conscribe to any one branch of Buddhism I am furthering the divide and damning myself to delusion
now I am very sorry for this message and I apologize but I think that if this is a chanting growers group where people are observing the laws of cause and effect and trying to learn how applying nichiren buddhism would benefit perhaps we need to cultivate selfless giving and understanding and not the politics
i will remove this message and leave the thread if this is offensive to anyone
I know that the people who share and contribute are true and good people and good buddhists it just that having to gather under different banners for the same cause seems counterintuitive to nichirens doctrine
and to be completely honest its not much easier feeling compelled to honesty since I have grown to love you all very much and hate to cause further discord, being deceitful or being honest seems to cost the same the benefit is one will set you free and one will imprison you, so knowing that which do I choose?
T
TrichyTrichy
W 
Nam Myoho Renge Kyo
Nam Myoho Renge Kyo
Hey Wierd!
Dude you caught me at a time when I don't have time to really get into everything you said. But since you felt compelled to broach this issue it made me question my suggestion that you receive Gohonzon. Based on the teachings of Nichiren, who first chanted the Daimoku and was the first to propagate it, this could never be construed as some kind of imprisonment. To not seek the Gohonzon outside oneself has nothing to do with not needing the Object of Devotion in ones life according to Nichiren. That has nothing to do with my opinion. And I in no way suggested you do anything but receive Gohonzon and since there are a confusing variety of ways to do that, I suggested you receive yours from the same place all of the rest of us that have one got ours.
Nothing more and nothing less.
I love your candor! When I get time I’ll slow down and finish the rest of this response.
Much love and deepest respect,
T
Dude you caught me at a time when I don't have time to really get into everything you said. But since you felt compelled to broach this issue it made me question my suggestion that you receive Gohonzon. Based on the teachings of Nichiren, who first chanted the Daimoku and was the first to propagate it, this could never be construed as some kind of imprisonment. To not seek the Gohonzon outside oneself has nothing to do with not needing the Object of Devotion in ones life according to Nichiren. That has nothing to do with my opinion. And I in no way suggested you do anything but receive Gohonzon and since there are a confusing variety of ways to do that, I suggested you receive yours from the same place all of the rest of us that have one got ours.
Nothing more and nothing less.
I love your candor! When I get time I’ll slow down and finish the rest of this response.
Much love and deepest respect,
T
Pass the doobie
it wasnt directed to anyone in particular nor was it regarding a gohonzon or an affiliation in general. imho its just an outsiders view of some seeming similarities that exist in other religions, which are a sign of imperfection and thus instill doubt.
not stating anyone in particular is the cause, but only pointing out the polarization which causes a contradiction or irony in the most simple doctrine which leads to doubtful faith
i am not questioning passion or doctrine or even the NEED to have a gohonzon.
this has NOTHING to do with that, I would never commit to anything I didn't fully understand and I don't think its showing proper respect to accept his doctrine as sacred unless it were a life long heartfelt commitment and I can't commit to what I cannot read.
I take my philosophical commitments that seriously. I was hoping to have learned enough to make an educated decision and was under the impression that this integrity in my decision making would be desirable.
the information regarding SGI and the temple was an added complexity that i dont understand and for me would potentially adds to the complexity that is nam myoho renge kyo since this thread represents it (the simple chant nam myoho renge kyo) and this thread requested I align my in a battle based on doctrine i dont fully understand yet but in faith am letting it unfold here and now
can you see where the focus becomes exponentially extrapolated for me and how I fear this could lead to a loss of clarity?
at times for me the simple prescription is chant harder and chat for faithlessly for truth so please don't answer unless you feel it is a necessity
I do not want to plant a seed of doubt or entertain conflicting energies
I am willing to let my faith cultivate the truth on on it's own tenants
Deepest Regards and Respect
M
it wasnt directed to anyone in particular nor was it regarding a gohonzon or an affiliation in general. imho its just an outsiders view of some seeming similarities that exist in other religions, which are a sign of imperfection and thus instill doubt.
not stating anyone in particular is the cause, but only pointing out the polarization which causes a contradiction or irony in the most simple doctrine which leads to doubtful faith
i am not questioning passion or doctrine or even the NEED to have a gohonzon.
this has NOTHING to do with that, I would never commit to anything I didn't fully understand and I don't think its showing proper respect to accept his doctrine as sacred unless it were a life long heartfelt commitment and I can't commit to what I cannot read.
I take my philosophical commitments that seriously. I was hoping to have learned enough to make an educated decision and was under the impression that this integrity in my decision making would be desirable.
the information regarding SGI and the temple was an added complexity that i dont understand and for me would potentially adds to the complexity that is nam myoho renge kyo since this thread represents it (the simple chant nam myoho renge kyo) and this thread requested I align my in a battle based on doctrine i dont fully understand yet but in faith am letting it unfold here and now
can you see where the focus becomes exponentially extrapolated for me and how I fear this could lead to a loss of clarity?
at times for me the simple prescription is chant harder and chat for faithlessly for truth so please don't answer unless you feel it is a necessity
I do not want to plant a seed of doubt or entertain conflicting energies
I am willing to let my faith cultivate the truth on on it's own tenants
Deepest Regards and Respect
M
Weird,as another person new to this aspect of Buddhism I agree with what you are saying concerning what looks to an "outsider" as infighting amongst the various groups,which doesn't sit well with my own concepts of what the Buddha was trying to teach.
if it weren't for the simple beauty of Nicheren's words and teachings,and the positive effects chanting has already brought into my life,I would have some doubt about continuing.but i have come to look forward to reading here everyday,and it has really given me much to think about and digest.
if it weren't for the simple beauty of Nicheren's words and teachings,and the positive effects chanting has already brought into my life,I would have some doubt about continuing.but i have come to look forward to reading here everyday,and it has really given me much to think about and digest.
Echoing off PB's understanding of today's Gosho passage, I have to mention that on November 28, 1991, the Nichiren Shoshu priesthood that once practiced with the Soka Gakkai attempted to excommunicate the entire SGI organization (worldwide) from their stewardship.
I read a book a couple years ago called the "Untold Story of The Fuji School" which goes into great detail on the circumstances of this pivotal point in the history of modern day kosen-rufu. The priests have utterly failed and our organization has grown. In fact, over the last 19 years many members have been diligently trying to help Nichiren Shoshu Temple members come over to the SGI.
As you know the SGI is the only Nichiren Buddhist organization that is based on Nichiren Daishonin's Goshos (and The Gohonzon). At this point in our lives the high priest's errors and corruption have been totally exposed and now is the time for all Chanting Growers to really achieve the previously inconceivable based on the teachings we share each day from Nichiren Daishonin. The formula I'm alluding to is: Daimoku + The Goshos + Gohonzon = Happiness! However, the formula alone is not enough to ensure kosen-rufu.... Correct Practicioners like the Chanting Growers must continue to demonstrate throughout the world that we will refute the errors of the Nikken Sect and continue to expose the truth which is that the priesthood has no capacity to increase membership and instead approaches SGI members in outlying areas to pull them into the Temple with guilt and other malign slanderous mechanicisms. This is not shakubuku it is clearly a manifestation of fundamental darkness.
As chanting growers lets continue to cherish those SGI members dedicated to the happiness of those that practice in the Temple because since I started chanting I have met many people that practiced in the temple (until recently) and really enjoy and appreciate our vigorously assiduous practice. Don't get it twisted, the SGI was once united with the Temple, but the priests took advantage of the members and eventually destroyed a huge monument to kosen-rufu (out of spite)because it was built by the donations of the SGI members. "NOW ITS TIME FOR THE DISCIPLES OF NICHIREN DAISHONIN TO STAND UP AND MAKE SURE THAT WE DISASSOCIATE AS MANY TEMPLE MEMBERS AS POSSIBLE, FOR THE SAKE OF THEIR ABSOLUTE HAPPINESS!"
In this month's living Buddhism, President Ikeda really writes some great guidance for us to follow in regards to this specific discussion. President Ikeda referenced The Gosho "The Three Kinds of Treasure" which is a Direct and Strict Gosho about Human Revolution.
"These passages compreise a crucial lesson underscoring the importance of persevering in our Buddhist practice to the very end. Through ceaseless challenge and exertion, we can bring our lives to completion with supreme fulfillment" (Sept-Oct LB, p.53)
I'm writing about this because we are geographically distant, but directly connected through faith. We need to sustain and nurture unity within our group because Unity is the most effective weapon to defeat devilish functions. By sending daimoku to the courageous hearts members that have been doing their best to protect the Buddhanature of Bodhisattvas that still practice with the Temple, we are united in faith with them.
"Devilish functions constantly seek to sow division. If fellow practitioners engage in petty infighting, they will only undermine one another, making possible for devilish forces to gain advantage." (Sept-Oct LB, p.55)
But, my friends we all know It's very easy to be swayed in our daily life by our negative tendancies (Friend recently called himself a shithead on this thread and I could certainly empathize)! President Ikeda said in this regard that:
"Buddhism is a teaching that enables each of us to live with complete freedom. It gives us the power to act with unconstrained energy and cheerfulness. But also means exercising the utmost care, prudence and wisdom in our own conduct at crucial moments (Sept-Oct LB, P.52)
Do yall know who has been Mr. Prudent himself on this thread for all these years? None other than the originator (OG) PasstheDoobie! This Buddhism even works for slobs, but if you make efforts to practice correctly and protect the other Bodhisattvas then you really manifest Buddhahood in your life! I mean REALLY REALLY REALLY MANIFEST BUDDHAHOOD IN YOUR LIFE and YOU END UP SUSTAINING THIS LONGER AND LONGER AS YOU PROCEED.
So based on the wisdom I've gained from the debates on this thread and abroad - it has become my mission to renew my vow for kosen-rufu everyday for the rest of my life. Protecting myself and those around me embracing The Strategy of The Lotus Sutra is something I have gained from chanting and have manifested this in the very core of my being. Based on wisdom, we will continue to take action to protect our movement. In the study I'm referencing President Ikeda really highlighted this point:
"Nichiren emphasizes the need for Kingo to remain vigilant and alert at all times on his way to and from work and even at home. He considers every possible place were assassins might conceal themselves, including under the floor or in the space above the ceiling." (Sept-Oct LB, p.54)
Here is the best part folks! You don't have to know a Temple member or even personally know me - just join me in chanting for this cause on Sunday mornings between 8am-10am and throughout the rest of the year we will be united in prayer. Chant for everything and anything you need or want and remember to send daimoku to the other chanting growers and also this huge cause outlined in this post. You know even President Ikeda strongly believes and proves that It is much more fun, and creates much more fortune, when we overcome obstacles together. We have demonstrated this throughout hundreds of pages on this thread over the years! Here is the last little tidbit from President Ikeda that I'll share in this post:
"This is a key point of personal guidance. The process doesn't just end once the guidance and encouragement are given. The person giving guidance must continue to chant wholeheartedly for the other person's happiness" (Sept-Oct LB, p.56)
I repeat! It is of the utmost importance that we continue to chant for each other's happiness. I'm fully committed to this aspect of our joint practice and proudly profess it every chance I get. I think that we The Chanting Growers are really in for some great treats throughout the rest of this year going into next. Our membership is increasing (again) and our friends are doing well and fighting side by side with us sending strong daimoku from their hearts to each of our hearts.
I'm very proud to be a Chanting Grower and thank the SGI for nurturing me to gain this level of appreciation this early in my life long practice. I have had many issues with many different things since I started posting on this thread, but my support is 100% the SGI and also 100% with all the Chanting Growers!
It is an honor to know many of you
Best regards,
MyohoDisco
Do not get me wrong I am and have been an SGI member for 35 years therefore, what I am going to say here, is stating the facts as I experienced them and understand them through my own practice of Nichiren's Buddhism with SGI.
To begin with,
SGI was practicing together with Nichiren Shoshu not the other way around. Nichiren Shoshu's History goes back 700+ years
It was Nichiren's intent to unite all people through the banner of the eternal Law- the Gohonzon of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo therefore; he revealed to all of us what was hidden in the Lotus Sutra. Nichiren confronted the misleading teachings and teachers of his time knowing full well that his life was on the line. His actions were strictly to reveal the truth hidden in the Lotus Sutra not to win converts for his own selfish purposes. In fact, at some point, he was offered by the military government to establish for him a temple of his own only if he quit exposing the errors of the inferior teachings. He adamantly refused to scum to such idea.
Nichiren revealed that he was in oneness with the Eternal Law and by being one with the law he realize that there are no adversaries to his awakening but rather diluted people and teachers who distort the teaching of the Buddha which he vowed to awaken them to the same realization he was enlightened to.
It is obvious that Nichiren revealed his true identity as the Buddha of the Latter Day of the Law versus the Buddhas of the Middle and Former Day of the Law being Tien T'ai and Shakyamuni.
It is Nichiren Shoshu who kept the sacred and original collection writings of Nichiren and many Gohonzons which are still at their possession to this day and we have copies of same.
It is in the early 1930's that Makiguchi, a teacher and educator who was introduced to Nichiren Shoshu and Nichiren's teaching has adopted the practice of chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo and study Nichiren's teaching, for it struck a chord with his belief of Value Creation Education. Later on, he established the Soka Kioku Gakkai as a teacher's movement education pedagogy for creating value and later became the Soka Gakkai International (SGI) Makiguchi became the first president and his protégé Josei Toda (a Teacher in Makiguchi's school) became the second president. Later on Daisaku Ikeda assumed the presidency of SGI in 1960 as the third president.
The relationship of the Soka Gakkai with Nichiren Shoshu has been established as a lay organization corporation created by Josei Toda to assume the responsibility for the sake of propagating this great teaching of Nichiren's Buddhism throughout Japan and eventually to the world. This was Mr. Toda's vision and vow to accomplish 750,000 household converts to Nichiren Shoshu Buddhism before his death. This he vowed to accomplish after he realized during his imprisonment that Nam-myoho-renge-kyo was life itself, and through his personal awakening realized his own enlightenment in prison. Upon his release from prison, Toda set on the course to teach Nichiren's teaching and the Lotus Sutrs through series of lectures and establish a close relationship with Nichiren Shoshu.
In 1952, while Mr. Toda became the second president, the Soka Gakkai acquired the legal status of an independent religious corporation, but promised Nichiren Shoshu clergy that it would abide by three fundamental principles:
- All converts are to join the congregation of a local temple
- All members are to uphold the doctrines of Nichiren Shoshu Head Temple Taisekiji
- All members are to protect the Three Treasures (the Buddha, the Law, and the Priesthood together with the lay believers) as defined by Nichiren Shoshu
Tens of thousands have joined the SGI with the first step taken by Daisaku Ikeda and in 1975 the Soka Gakkai International was created in Guam on February, 28th. It is after the death of the High Priest Nittatsu Shonin in 1979 that SGI relationship with the Nichiren Shoshu took a turn toward a separation with the Self Appointed High Priest Nikken Abe. By that time the SGI had donated over 300 Temples facilities throughout Japan and around the world. Millions of dollars were donated to Nichiren Shoshu Head Temple since the early days of Makiguchi and Toda succeeded by Daisaku Ikeda.
It was the misuse of donations that turned the Priesthood to disregard and showing no gratitude for the great stride and growth the priesthood have gained through the Lay Organization SGI sincere efforts and dedication. In a matter of two decades the separation was imminent since the Priesthood led by Nikken have created a scenario by which they are placed above and superior to the laity membership and demanded that the SGI will comply with the three points stipulated between the SGI and the priesthood of 1951 signed by Mr. Toda.
The Priesthood assumption was that as long as they are supported by the SGI under these terms, their superiority is guaranteed and they may conduct themselves as they please to maintain this support.
It is not until President Ikeda stood up on his ground to point out the discrepancies of the Priests held in their conduct and their statements compared with Nichiren’s teachings stated in the Gosho that their errors were exposed. However, instead of correcting such behavior of the priests and their families lavishly spending the hard earned donations of the lay believers support, they have turned their backs and declared justification to their superiority and the infallibility of the High Priest Nikken of his position when he declared himself to be the Daishonin of our modern times and him being the sole “Living Essence of the Law”.
The eventual separation and excommunication of the members of the SGI was an inevitable reality since dialoged efforts attempts failed.
It is through individuals misinterpretation of Nichiren's teachings being priests or lay believers that Nichiren's words become very valuable to study and to be adhere to.
Kosen Rufu will never be able to be accomplished unless those who chant the daimoku unite together for this noble cause. A destruction of one group or the other by the efforts of either group will prove that neither group adheres to Nichiren's words to be the guide for such endeavor.
It is imperative that those who practice Nichiren's teaching under one "flag" or the other following individuals who contribute for such dispute will never gain the endorsement of Nichiren today unless at some point in the future we'll all become united together placing the BANNER of the Gohonzon of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo as the prime focus and purpose of our mission to spread this great teaching as ONE BODY to accomplish this task.
This for sure not going to be accomplished under one organization or the other nor it will be accomplished under the authority of one Leader (mentor) or one priest (high priest).
It is going to happen true and correct when all practitioners humble themselves in front of the Gohonzon of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo realizing the dignity of all people, even those who oppose us and may not practice this great teaching, be included and deserve our respect. The spirit of Bodhisattva Never Disparaging is displayed in his behavior. Our behavior and respect of all people to recognize that we and all people are Buddhas regardless of our culture, belief, color, creed and or sex, will advance Nichiren's cause that much greater.
ma
This is why i decide to speak my mind
I know are hearts all hear its our minds that need to be on the same page and I think that talking about what our minds see in the most truthful manner will bring us there
I see a simple fix for this disparity in this case
I don't think there is any ill intention in EasyMyohoDisco's message, so I did not criticize it, I know his desire is unity, but I felt need to disclose the apprehensions it seemed to foster, because I know he wants maximum return on his efforts for Nichirens sake
in fact i think the same efforts can me made to craft a solution of harmonious resolve
lets chant for truth
lets chant not only to share the doctrine of nam myoho renge kyo to those who do not posses it but let use chant for the truth of nam myoho renge kyo to ring strong in the hearts of those who already did
let us chant for the same truth nam myoho renge kyo, which in doing so, in this one simple chant, and in doing so may the truth, the same truth as nichiren will be revealed
lets selfless give to those who stand separated from us so that they may see we wish the gift for them that nichiren wished for us and as nichiren wished for them and in giving selflessly to each other perhaps the disillusion that is separation will dissolve
that is what I love about this thread, this part of the universe, this part of nam myoho renge kyo, when we could not longer give to the world we gave to our plants
and they gave back
if they can hear the call of nam myoho renge kyo in as much to bring us here and have us share in the spontaneous law of cause and effect then the chant must ring so strong with truth for all of us that nothing can deny it
then really what cannot be done in the chant of nam myoho renge kyo in the name of nam myoho renge kyo?
I am glad for this dialog because I truly want to faithfully and selfless give and for me that required I shared honestly
not that you dont need to study the letters, or chant in front a Gohonzon or further one's devotion to truly embrace Nichiren, this is for our own personal enrichment and so we can share with those who may benefit from OUR understanding, but in chanting and forming a desire in the chant by desiring nam myoho renge kyo we deliver the law in its perfection to the hearts of others where it unfolds to the same understanding even though we posses unique perspectives, I believe this is why chanting is so so powerful.
so it seems that our energies that are intended for others are best given in the form of nam myoho renge kyo because the mystical law seems to work out the differential in our perspectives best when it speaks to us from within
Nam myoho renge kyo
Nam myoho renge kyo
Me too
Nam myoho renge kyo
Thanks so much to ALL of you that keep me chanting !!
Nam myoho renge kyo
Me too
Nam myoho renge kyo
Thanks so much to ALL of you that keep me chanting !!
Nam myoho renge kyo
Nam myoho renge kyo
From Words of Wisdom, by President Ikeda, on Dialogue. www.ikedquotes.org.Genuine dialogue is a ceaseless and profound spiritual exertion that seeks to effect a fundamental human transformation in both ourselves and others. Dialogue challenges us to confront and transform the destructive impulses inherent in human life. I earnestly believe that the energy generated by this courageous effort can break the chains of resignation and apathy that bind the human heart, unleashing renewed confidence and vision for the future.
Nam myoho renge kyo
From Words of Wisdom, by President Ikeda, on Dialogue. www.ikedquotes.org.Genuine dialogue is a ceaseless and profound spiritual exertion that seeks to effect a fundamental human transformation in both ourselves and others. Dialogue challenges us to confront and transform the destructive impulses inherent in human life. I earnestly believe that the energy generated by this courageous effort can break the chains of resignation and apathy that bind the human heart, unleashing renewed confidence and vision for the future.
E
EasyMyohoDisco
Man I love this thread. Great posts PB and Weird. I'm so happy to be a part of each of your lives in spirit based on my faith in Nam-myoho-renge-kyo's influence and results in our life. Thank you so much for putting it out there and thanks to PTD, Socal, Trichy, Babbabud and Uncle for the smiles! Good stuff folks, I stopped watching TV a long time ago, this thread is amazing!
Daily Wisdom
From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, September 10, 2010:
"More valuable than treasures in a storehouse are the treasures of the body, and the treasures of the heart are the most valuable of all. From the time you read this letter on, strive to accumulate the treasures of the heart!"
Passage from: "The Three Kinds of Treasure"
Written to Shijo Kingo on September 11, 1277
Background from WND p. 852
This letter was written at Minobu in the ninth month of 1277 and addressed to Shijo Nakatsukasa Saburo Saemon-no-jo Yorimoto, commonly known as Shijo Kingo, in Kamakura. Sometime around 1274, Shijo Kingo had begun making efforts to convert his lord, who was named Ema, to the Daishonin’s teachings. Lord Ema, however, did not respond positively. Instead, he reduced the size of Kingo’s landholdings and threatened to send him to the remote province of Echigo. Kingo’s colleagues spread scurrilous reports about him, and Kingo was accused of fomenting trouble at a debate in the sixth month of , during which the Tendai priest Ryuzo-bo was bested by the Daishonin’s disciple Sammi-bo.
Nichiren Daishonin cautions Shijo Kingo and instructs him on the best course of behavior in his trying circumstances. Later that year Lord Ema fell ill, and Kingo, applying his medical skills, helped cure him. The lord was most grateful and in 1278 restored, and later even increased, Kingo’s landholdings.
At the outset of this letter, the Daishonin tells Kingo that he should remember his debt of gratitude to his lord, and stresses the Buddhist teaching that fundamental changes within oneself inevitably result in changes in the environment. He mentions that when he was about to be executed at Tatsunokuchi Kingo vowed to die by his side. Now Kingo is undergoing a severe ordeal and the Daishonin is exerting all his powers to protect him. The Daishonin says that, since Kingo was fortunate enough to have been born human and encountered the true teaching, he should accumulate “the treasures of the heart” and win the respect of others. Finally, through historical references to Emperor Sushun and others, the Daishonin teaches Kingo that as a Buddhist he should conduct his daily life admirably and be considerate of others.
My understanding of the Passage
In this chaotic lifetime we live in, where people have no regards to one another running around constantly trying to cope with everyday life, our lives as Bodhisattvas, (the fortunate ones) among multitude of suffering people is so valuable that we may not waste it on fleeting matters. From the moment we have started our Bodhisattva's practice, we have realized how fortunate we are to receive this "Jewel" of perfect endowment without even seeking it. It is rare to be born as human being, Nichiren states in this letter. However, it is even rarer to encounter from all of the Buddha's teachings, the correct teaching at this time and realize that ,as simple as it may seem, to encounter and possess the Gohonzon and Nam-myoho-renge-kyo (the heart of all teachings) in this lifetime is indeed even rarer.
So what is our true purpose in life beside becoming successful in our mundane world and achieve all of our earthly desires through our conviction and proof of our faith? It is none other than attaining the perfect enlightenment by awakening our lives to this eternal Law in this lifetime and lead others to such realization and solve this dilemma of life and death as if this moment is our last. Our relationships with others are the most valuable by which we can realize this impermanence of our lives marching towards our inevitable departure, as Nichiren states: Life as a human being is hard to sustain— as hard as it is for the dew to remain on the grass. But it is better to live a single day with honor than to live to 120 and die in disgrace.
Cherish our lives! Cherish our friends and family! The only memory we depart with is our awakening of our eternal Buddhahood manifested at that moment.
pb
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Link to the page:
The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 851
Segments...
...Over and over I recall the moment, unforgettable even now, when I was about to be beheaded and you accompanied me, holding the reins of my horse and weeping tears of grief.7 Nor could I ever forget it in any lifetime to come. If you should fall into hell for some grave offense, no matter how Shakyamuni Buddha might urge me to become a Buddha, I would refuse; I would rather go to hell with you. For if you and I should fall into hell together, we would find Shakyamuni Buddha and the Lotus Sutra there. It would be as if the moon were illuminating the darkness, as if cold water were pouring into hot, as if fire were melting ice, or as if the sun were dispelling the darkness. But if you depart from my advice even slightly, do not blame me for what may happen...
...It is rare to be born a human being. The number of those endowed with human life is as small as the amount of earth one can place on a fingernail. Life as a human being is hard to sustain— as hard as it is for the dew to remain on the grass. But it is better to live a single day with honor than to live to 120 and die in disgrace. Live so that all the people of Kamakura will say in your praise that Nakatsukasa Saburo Saemon-no-jo is diligent in the service of his lord, in the service of Buddhism, and in his concern for other people. More valuable than treasures in a storehouse are the treasures of the body, and the treasures of the heart are the most valuable of all. From the time you read this letter on, strive to accumulate the treasures of the heart!
I would like to relate an incident that is customarily kept secret.8 In the history of Japan, there have been two emperors who were assassinated. One of them was Emperor Sushun. He was a son of Emperor Kimmei and an uncle of Prince Shotoku. One day during his reign as the thirty-third sovereign, he summoned Prince Shotoku and said, “We hear that you are a man of sacred wisdom. Examine Our physiognomy and tell us what you see there!” The prince declined three times, but the emperor insisted that he obey the imperial command. Finally, no longer able to refuse, the prince reverently examined Sushun’s physiognomy and then reported, “Your Majesty’s countenance indicates that you will be assassinated.”
The emperor’s complexion changed color. “What evidence do you have to support such a contention?” he asked. The prince replied, “I see red veins running over your eyes. This is a sign that you will incur the enmity of others.” Thereupon the emperor asked, “How can We escape this fate?” The prince said: “It is difficult to evade. But there are soldiers known as the five constant virtues. As long as you keep these warriors on your side, you will be safe from danger. In the Buddhist scriptures these soldiers are referred to as the ‘practice of forbearance,’ one of the six paramitas.”
For some time after that, Emperor Sushun faithfully observed the practice of forbearance. But, being irascible by nature, he violated the precept one day when one of his subjects presented him with a young wild boar. He withdrew the metal rod that was attached to his sword scabbard and stabbed the boar in the eyes with it, saying, “One of these days this is what We will do to that fellow We hate!” Prince Shotoku, who happened to be present, exclaimed, “Ah, what a fearful thing to do! Your Majesty will surely arouse the enmity of others. These very words you have spoken will be the sword that wounds you.” The prince then ordered articles of value to be brought out and divided among those who had heard the emperor’s remark, [hoping to buy their silence]. One of them, however, told the Great Minister Soga no Umako about the episode. Umako, believing that he was the one the emperor hated, won over Atai Goma, the son of Azumanoaya no Atai Iwai, and had him kill the emperor.9
Thus even a ruler on a throne must take care not to give unreserved expression to his thoughts. The worthy man Confucius held to his belief “Nine thoughts to one word,”10 which means that he reconsidered nine times before he spoke. Tan, the Duke of Chou, was so earnest in receiving callers that he would wring out his hair three times in the course of washing it, or spit out his food three times in the course of a meal [in order not to keep them waiting]. Consider this carefully so that you will have no cause to reproach me later. What is called Buddhism is found in this behavior.
The heart of the Buddha’s lifetime of teachings is the Lotus Sutra, and the heart of the practice of the Lotus Sutra is found in the “Never Disparaging” chapter. What does Bodhisattva Never Disparaging’s profound respect for people signify? The purpose of the appearance in this world of Shakyamuni Buddha, the lord of teachings, lies in his behavior as a human being. Respectfully.
The wise may be called human, but the thoughtless are no more than animals.
Nichiren
The eleventh day of the ninth month in the third year of Kenji (1277), cyclical sign hinoto-ushi
Reply to Shijo Saemon-no-jo
From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, September 10, 2010:
"More valuable than treasures in a storehouse are the treasures of the body, and the treasures of the heart are the most valuable of all. From the time you read this letter on, strive to accumulate the treasures of the heart!"
Passage from: "The Three Kinds of Treasure"
Written to Shijo Kingo on September 11, 1277
Background from WND p. 852
This letter was written at Minobu in the ninth month of 1277 and addressed to Shijo Nakatsukasa Saburo Saemon-no-jo Yorimoto, commonly known as Shijo Kingo, in Kamakura. Sometime around 1274, Shijo Kingo had begun making efforts to convert his lord, who was named Ema, to the Daishonin’s teachings. Lord Ema, however, did not respond positively. Instead, he reduced the size of Kingo’s landholdings and threatened to send him to the remote province of Echigo. Kingo’s colleagues spread scurrilous reports about him, and Kingo was accused of fomenting trouble at a debate in the sixth month of , during which the Tendai priest Ryuzo-bo was bested by the Daishonin’s disciple Sammi-bo.
Nichiren Daishonin cautions Shijo Kingo and instructs him on the best course of behavior in his trying circumstances. Later that year Lord Ema fell ill, and Kingo, applying his medical skills, helped cure him. The lord was most grateful and in 1278 restored, and later even increased, Kingo’s landholdings.
At the outset of this letter, the Daishonin tells Kingo that he should remember his debt of gratitude to his lord, and stresses the Buddhist teaching that fundamental changes within oneself inevitably result in changes in the environment. He mentions that when he was about to be executed at Tatsunokuchi Kingo vowed to die by his side. Now Kingo is undergoing a severe ordeal and the Daishonin is exerting all his powers to protect him. The Daishonin says that, since Kingo was fortunate enough to have been born human and encountered the true teaching, he should accumulate “the treasures of the heart” and win the respect of others. Finally, through historical references to Emperor Sushun and others, the Daishonin teaches Kingo that as a Buddhist he should conduct his daily life admirably and be considerate of others.
My understanding of the Passage
In this chaotic lifetime we live in, where people have no regards to one another running around constantly trying to cope with everyday life, our lives as Bodhisattvas, (the fortunate ones) among multitude of suffering people is so valuable that we may not waste it on fleeting matters. From the moment we have started our Bodhisattva's practice, we have realized how fortunate we are to receive this "Jewel" of perfect endowment without even seeking it. It is rare to be born as human being, Nichiren states in this letter. However, it is even rarer to encounter from all of the Buddha's teachings, the correct teaching at this time and realize that ,as simple as it may seem, to encounter and possess the Gohonzon and Nam-myoho-renge-kyo (the heart of all teachings) in this lifetime is indeed even rarer.
So what is our true purpose in life beside becoming successful in our mundane world and achieve all of our earthly desires through our conviction and proof of our faith? It is none other than attaining the perfect enlightenment by awakening our lives to this eternal Law in this lifetime and lead others to such realization and solve this dilemma of life and death as if this moment is our last. Our relationships with others are the most valuable by which we can realize this impermanence of our lives marching towards our inevitable departure, as Nichiren states: Life as a human being is hard to sustain— as hard as it is for the dew to remain on the grass. But it is better to live a single day with honor than to live to 120 and die in disgrace.
Cherish our lives! Cherish our friends and family! The only memory we depart with is our awakening of our eternal Buddhahood manifested at that moment.
pb
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Link to the page:
The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 851
Segments...
...Over and over I recall the moment, unforgettable even now, when I was about to be beheaded and you accompanied me, holding the reins of my horse and weeping tears of grief.7 Nor could I ever forget it in any lifetime to come. If you should fall into hell for some grave offense, no matter how Shakyamuni Buddha might urge me to become a Buddha, I would refuse; I would rather go to hell with you. For if you and I should fall into hell together, we would find Shakyamuni Buddha and the Lotus Sutra there. It would be as if the moon were illuminating the darkness, as if cold water were pouring into hot, as if fire were melting ice, or as if the sun were dispelling the darkness. But if you depart from my advice even slightly, do not blame me for what may happen...
...It is rare to be born a human being. The number of those endowed with human life is as small as the amount of earth one can place on a fingernail. Life as a human being is hard to sustain— as hard as it is for the dew to remain on the grass. But it is better to live a single day with honor than to live to 120 and die in disgrace. Live so that all the people of Kamakura will say in your praise that Nakatsukasa Saburo Saemon-no-jo is diligent in the service of his lord, in the service of Buddhism, and in his concern for other people. More valuable than treasures in a storehouse are the treasures of the body, and the treasures of the heart are the most valuable of all. From the time you read this letter on, strive to accumulate the treasures of the heart!
I would like to relate an incident that is customarily kept secret.8 In the history of Japan, there have been two emperors who were assassinated. One of them was Emperor Sushun. He was a son of Emperor Kimmei and an uncle of Prince Shotoku. One day during his reign as the thirty-third sovereign, he summoned Prince Shotoku and said, “We hear that you are a man of sacred wisdom. Examine Our physiognomy and tell us what you see there!” The prince declined three times, but the emperor insisted that he obey the imperial command. Finally, no longer able to refuse, the prince reverently examined Sushun’s physiognomy and then reported, “Your Majesty’s countenance indicates that you will be assassinated.”
The emperor’s complexion changed color. “What evidence do you have to support such a contention?” he asked. The prince replied, “I see red veins running over your eyes. This is a sign that you will incur the enmity of others.” Thereupon the emperor asked, “How can We escape this fate?” The prince said: “It is difficult to evade. But there are soldiers known as the five constant virtues. As long as you keep these warriors on your side, you will be safe from danger. In the Buddhist scriptures these soldiers are referred to as the ‘practice of forbearance,’ one of the six paramitas.”
For some time after that, Emperor Sushun faithfully observed the practice of forbearance. But, being irascible by nature, he violated the precept one day when one of his subjects presented him with a young wild boar. He withdrew the metal rod that was attached to his sword scabbard and stabbed the boar in the eyes with it, saying, “One of these days this is what We will do to that fellow We hate!” Prince Shotoku, who happened to be present, exclaimed, “Ah, what a fearful thing to do! Your Majesty will surely arouse the enmity of others. These very words you have spoken will be the sword that wounds you.” The prince then ordered articles of value to be brought out and divided among those who had heard the emperor’s remark, [hoping to buy their silence]. One of them, however, told the Great Minister Soga no Umako about the episode. Umako, believing that he was the one the emperor hated, won over Atai Goma, the son of Azumanoaya no Atai Iwai, and had him kill the emperor.9
Thus even a ruler on a throne must take care not to give unreserved expression to his thoughts. The worthy man Confucius held to his belief “Nine thoughts to one word,”10 which means that he reconsidered nine times before he spoke. Tan, the Duke of Chou, was so earnest in receiving callers that he would wring out his hair three times in the course of washing it, or spit out his food three times in the course of a meal [in order not to keep them waiting]. Consider this carefully so that you will have no cause to reproach me later. What is called Buddhism is found in this behavior.
The heart of the Buddha’s lifetime of teachings is the Lotus Sutra, and the heart of the practice of the Lotus Sutra is found in the “Never Disparaging” chapter. What does Bodhisattva Never Disparaging’s profound respect for people signify? The purpose of the appearance in this world of Shakyamuni Buddha, the lord of teachings, lies in his behavior as a human being. Respectfully.
The wise may be called human, but the thoughtless are no more than animals.
Nichiren
The eleventh day of the ninth month in the third year of Kenji (1277), cyclical sign hinoto-ushi
Reply to Shijo Saemon-no-jo
E
EasyMyohoDisco
PB,
Last night I tried writing to you for over two and half hours. First I wrote a post that indicated your anthology of the temple split was flirting with an anti-ikeda sentiment and then I further examined your perspective of the last 90 years of Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism to then reflect more of my personal views. However, by the time I clicked Submit reply, my account logged off and I lost the longest post I have written in months. I then wrote a completely different post in a more appreciative tone with even more different thoughts and references to former experiences documented on the thread. Again, I clicked Submit reply and the login screen came up!
I was flabbergasted and just laughed it off and called up Babba. We really encouraged each other and felt great catching up and I was able to come back for a few more minutes and actually post a little tidbit of appreciation for you and Weird especially. I'm not sure if you've had the time to read this thread yet and I hope someday you do. It's great that you keep posting your interpretations of the Goshos and I want to strongly encourage you to read about more of our collective experiences on this thread. I feel like even though you've been practicing this Buddhism for 30 more years than me, the hurt and pain I saw as subtext in your brief anthological interpretation of Temple split reminded me of where I've been quite a few times out of frustration.
I have been so encouraged by your words to really love and appreciate President Ikeda's words more than ever that I wish I could tell you to your face. You have no clue, but between you and Thomas in the last three months I've gained so many golden nuggets of wisdom on purely SGI related ideas that every next day I'm waking up closer to President Ikeda's heart and understand how he is my mentor. I appreciate the fact that through your guidance and experience I can feel encouraged to really be myself and let go of the way I perceived President Ikeda. I thought he was the pope or dali llama! He's just one of the most amazing Bodhisattvas of our time and really opened up the path for me to do kosen-rufu in America.
When President Ikeda wrote the poem "To My Young American Friends" in Glen Cove, and decades later I'm reading it, I realized he wrote that poem for me to help other people achieve the unsurpassed way. I feel like I have a huge debt of gratitude for your experiences, guidance and words. I'm still intrigued to know who or what tried to stop you from posting, but I'm even more interested in your subsequent posts.
Dude, nobody has come along in this thread and helped me understand President Ikeda's heart is of the same mind as Nichiren and me until you came along. Dude, I'm very grateful for that! Back in January 2008 I wasn't really embracing Mugi Wasshin and was more so on the Bonno Soku Bodai bandwagon... So consequently by gaining an enormous amount of benefit rapidly I became arrogant and cocky in my approach against the upside pyramid of leadership in our organization and slandered about it too. So obviously I had to deal with that karma and pretty much ended up moving into my own sado island (on my own accord) and I suffered a lot throughout the last year that I wasn't as active in activities or meetings until this summer when I moved myself out from 'Sado Island'!
I was making my own bed and had to lay in it everynight. Now that I'm back and more involved in Buddhism than ever before, I can say that this is what I was missing. I was missing the MENTOR, I couldn't appreciate him, I couldn't see beyond my suffering! I realized my mission as a Bodhisattva of the Earth in the Gohonzon and about a month ago in a meeting in my house I had a huge huge breakthrough in my heart. I actually felt the strangest and most powerful sensational epiphany or resonantly profound realization that the Chanting Growers and I are going to really make quantum leaps this year. I've been posting about it, but I don't know if I was clear enough.
You know when I read weird's post, I was encouraged because i saw him reading the thread and learning more about dynamics of Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism and that is what this thread is all about! This thread is about shakubuku and it has been functioning and is carried out correctly on this thread. Anti-SGI and Anti-President Ikeda statements are tantamount to slander because they are the physical common link between us, not withstanding infinite lifetimes of being in each other's company. I know you must have been my brother, mother, sister or cousin in another life and I can say the same about others on this thread. The things I read have been deep and keep getting deeper.
Even if I tried to extricate myself from this thread, it cannot happen. I've tried and it didn't work. I'm a big part of this and I'm glad you are too. Together we aren't just practicing in our daily lives and locales, but united on this thread we are achieving the buddha's prophecy!
Thanks again for your words and I appreciate your daily effort. Keep up the good work. Same to you Brother Weird! Your words and posts have been as real as real gets!
Best regards,
MyohoDisco
Gosho Passage for today Saturday September 11th, 2010
Gosho Passage for today Saturday September 11th, 2010
Easy Myoho,
I read your comment and strange enough, this passage and letter deals with what kind of relationship do we all have with Nichiren who I consider to be our eternal teacher and mentor to be recognized FIRST. Because without Nichiren we would not have been able to be here and practice this incredible teaching today.
Therefore, anyone today who is chanting the Daimoku cannot have enough gratitude to Nichiren by placing the Gohonzon and Nam-myoho-renge-kyo as the prime focus of our practice and have gratitude to not only one "Mentor" but rather all the “Mentors” who farther the cause to establish the very decree initiated by Nichiren.
Daily Wisdom
From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Saturday, September 11, 2010:
"Because this mountain is where this wondrous votary of the Lotus Sutra dwells, how can it be any less sacred than the pure land of Eagle Peak? This is what [The Words and Phrases of the Lotus Sutra means when] it says, "Since the Law is wonderful, the person is worthy of respect; since the person is worthy of respect, the land is sacred."
Passage from: "The Person and the Law"
Written to Nanjo Tokimitsu on September 11, 1281
Background from WND p. 1098
Nichiren Daishonin sent this letter from Mount Minobu to Nanjo Tokimitsu, the steward of Ueno Village in Suruga, in the ninth month, 1281. Nanjo Tokimitsu was then just twenty-two years old.
Following the Atsuhara Persecution, in which Nanjo Tokimitsu had played an extremely important role in supporting the believers, government officials had taxed his estate heavily so that he had difficulty maintaining his family. Exactly what illness he was suffering from remains unclear; he recovered, however, and lived for some fifty years after this letter was written.
The title of this letter, The Person and the Law, is derived from a passage of The Words and Phrases of the Lotus Sutra that states that, since the Law is wonderful, the person who upholds it is worthy of respect.
My understanding of the passage
It is in this remotest place of Mount Minobu that Nichiren was able to reveal that he indeed was the Votary of the Lotus Sutra, and ultimately the very Buddha of the Latter Day of the Law who established the correct object of devotion and the correct teaching for the next 10,000 years and into eternity. Nichiren exemplifies what does it means to be ONE with the LAW of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo.
The place we dwell IS Eagle Peak when we embrace the Gohonzon with doubt-free faith participating in this ceremony everyday on "Eagle Peak". At that time, we summon up all the Buddhas and Buddhisatvas right then and there together with Nichiren, Shakyamuni and Many Tresures (Taho) facing and invoking the very cause by which all Buddhas attained enlightenment throughout time and space. As Nichiren states "since the Law is supreme, the person is worthy of respect; since the person is worthy of respect, the land is sacred."
Who is this person worthy of respect? It is none other than Nichiren and all of us who embrace this incredible Gohonzon chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo and who are yearning to see the Buddha from with-in and awakening others to such yearning to this awakening cause.
It is through our Oneness with the LAW that grants us the Oneness with the Teacher Nichiren who is the Buddha of the Later Day of the Law, not the other way around. No other teacher, can take his place as if he is Nichiren of today, but rather we are all teachers who refer (by our example) to Nichiren who was the first to exemplify his Oneness with the Law.
pb
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Link to the page:
The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 1097
I HAVE just heard from your messenger that you are suffering from a serious illness. I hope you will recover soon and come to see me. Also, I have received your gifts of a horseload of salt, a sack of soybeans, a bag of seaweed, and a bamboo container of sake. I have not seen you since you returned home from the province of Kozuke, and I have been wondering how you are. I can hardly find words to say how much I appreciate your sincerity in sending me a letter and the many gifts.
As you well know, a sutra says that the boy Virtue Victorious,1 who offered a mud pie to the Buddha, was later reborn as King Ashoka, who ruled over most of the southern continent of Jambudvipa. Since the Buddha is worthy of respect, the boy was able to receive this great reward even though the pie was only mud. Shakyamuni Buddha teaches, however, that one who makes offerings to the votary of the Lotus Sutra in the latter age for even a single day will gain benefit a hundred, thousand, ten thousand, million times greater than one would by offering countless treasures to the Buddha for one million kalpas. How wonderful then is your having wholeheartedly supported the votary of the Lotus Sutra over the years! According to the Buddha’s golden words, in the next life you are certain to be reborn in the pure land of Eagle Peak. What remarkable rewards you will gain!
This is a mountainous place, remote from all human habitation. Not a single village is found in any direction. Although I live in such a forsaken place, deep in this mortal flesh I preserve the ultimate secret Law inherited from Shakyamuni Buddha, the lord of teachings, at Eagle Peak. My heart is where all Buddhas enter nirvana; my tongue, where they turn the wheel of the Law; my throat, where they are born into this world; and my mouth, where they attain enlightenment. Because this mountain is where this wondrous votary of the Lotus Sutra dwells, how can it be any less sacred than the pure land of Eagle Peak? This is what [The Words and Phrases of the Lotus Sutra means when] it says, “Since the Law is wonderful, the person is worthy of respect; since the person is worthy of respect, the land is sacred.” The “Supernatural Powers” chapter reads, “Whether in a forest, beneath a tree, in monks’ quarters . . . in such places have the Buddhas entered nirvana.” Those who visit this place can instantly expiate the offenses they have accumulated since the infinite past and transform their evils deriving from the three types of action into the three virtues.2
A suffering traveler in central India once came to Heat-Free Lake to quench the fires of anguish in his heart. He proclaimed that he could fulfill his desire, “as a clear cool pond can satisfy all those who are thirsty.”3 Although HeatFree Lake and this place are different, the principle is exactly the same. Thus, Eagle Peak of India is now here at Mount Minobu in Japan. It has been a long time since you were last here. You should come to see me as soon as you possibly can. I am looking forward eagerly to seeing you.
How can I describe your sincerity? In truth, it is splendid!
Nichiren
The eleventh day of the ninth month in the fourth year of Koan (1281)
Reply to Nanjo
Gosho Passage for today Saturday September 11th, 2010
Easy Myoho,
I read your comment and strange enough, this passage and letter deals with what kind of relationship do we all have with Nichiren who I consider to be our eternal teacher and mentor to be recognized FIRST. Because without Nichiren we would not have been able to be here and practice this incredible teaching today.
Therefore, anyone today who is chanting the Daimoku cannot have enough gratitude to Nichiren by placing the Gohonzon and Nam-myoho-renge-kyo as the prime focus of our practice and have gratitude to not only one "Mentor" but rather all the “Mentors” who farther the cause to establish the very decree initiated by Nichiren.
Daily Wisdom
From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Saturday, September 11, 2010:
"Because this mountain is where this wondrous votary of the Lotus Sutra dwells, how can it be any less sacred than the pure land of Eagle Peak? This is what [The Words and Phrases of the Lotus Sutra means when] it says, "Since the Law is wonderful, the person is worthy of respect; since the person is worthy of respect, the land is sacred."
Passage from: "The Person and the Law"
Written to Nanjo Tokimitsu on September 11, 1281
Background from WND p. 1098
Nichiren Daishonin sent this letter from Mount Minobu to Nanjo Tokimitsu, the steward of Ueno Village in Suruga, in the ninth month, 1281. Nanjo Tokimitsu was then just twenty-two years old.
Following the Atsuhara Persecution, in which Nanjo Tokimitsu had played an extremely important role in supporting the believers, government officials had taxed his estate heavily so that he had difficulty maintaining his family. Exactly what illness he was suffering from remains unclear; he recovered, however, and lived for some fifty years after this letter was written.
The title of this letter, The Person and the Law, is derived from a passage of The Words and Phrases of the Lotus Sutra that states that, since the Law is wonderful, the person who upholds it is worthy of respect.
My understanding of the passage
It is in this remotest place of Mount Minobu that Nichiren was able to reveal that he indeed was the Votary of the Lotus Sutra, and ultimately the very Buddha of the Latter Day of the Law who established the correct object of devotion and the correct teaching for the next 10,000 years and into eternity. Nichiren exemplifies what does it means to be ONE with the LAW of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo.
The place we dwell IS Eagle Peak when we embrace the Gohonzon with doubt-free faith participating in this ceremony everyday on "Eagle Peak". At that time, we summon up all the Buddhas and Buddhisatvas right then and there together with Nichiren, Shakyamuni and Many Tresures (Taho) facing and invoking the very cause by which all Buddhas attained enlightenment throughout time and space. As Nichiren states "since the Law is supreme, the person is worthy of respect; since the person is worthy of respect, the land is sacred."
Who is this person worthy of respect? It is none other than Nichiren and all of us who embrace this incredible Gohonzon chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo and who are yearning to see the Buddha from with-in and awakening others to such yearning to this awakening cause.
It is through our Oneness with the LAW that grants us the Oneness with the Teacher Nichiren who is the Buddha of the Later Day of the Law, not the other way around. No other teacher, can take his place as if he is Nichiren of today, but rather we are all teachers who refer (by our example) to Nichiren who was the first to exemplify his Oneness with the Law.
pb
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Link to the page:
The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 1097
I HAVE just heard from your messenger that you are suffering from a serious illness. I hope you will recover soon and come to see me. Also, I have received your gifts of a horseload of salt, a sack of soybeans, a bag of seaweed, and a bamboo container of sake. I have not seen you since you returned home from the province of Kozuke, and I have been wondering how you are. I can hardly find words to say how much I appreciate your sincerity in sending me a letter and the many gifts.
As you well know, a sutra says that the boy Virtue Victorious,1 who offered a mud pie to the Buddha, was later reborn as King Ashoka, who ruled over most of the southern continent of Jambudvipa. Since the Buddha is worthy of respect, the boy was able to receive this great reward even though the pie was only mud. Shakyamuni Buddha teaches, however, that one who makes offerings to the votary of the Lotus Sutra in the latter age for even a single day will gain benefit a hundred, thousand, ten thousand, million times greater than one would by offering countless treasures to the Buddha for one million kalpas. How wonderful then is your having wholeheartedly supported the votary of the Lotus Sutra over the years! According to the Buddha’s golden words, in the next life you are certain to be reborn in the pure land of Eagle Peak. What remarkable rewards you will gain!
This is a mountainous place, remote from all human habitation. Not a single village is found in any direction. Although I live in such a forsaken place, deep in this mortal flesh I preserve the ultimate secret Law inherited from Shakyamuni Buddha, the lord of teachings, at Eagle Peak. My heart is where all Buddhas enter nirvana; my tongue, where they turn the wheel of the Law; my throat, where they are born into this world; and my mouth, where they attain enlightenment. Because this mountain is where this wondrous votary of the Lotus Sutra dwells, how can it be any less sacred than the pure land of Eagle Peak? This is what [The Words and Phrases of the Lotus Sutra means when] it says, “Since the Law is wonderful, the person is worthy of respect; since the person is worthy of respect, the land is sacred.” The “Supernatural Powers” chapter reads, “Whether in a forest, beneath a tree, in monks’ quarters . . . in such places have the Buddhas entered nirvana.” Those who visit this place can instantly expiate the offenses they have accumulated since the infinite past and transform their evils deriving from the three types of action into the three virtues.2
A suffering traveler in central India once came to Heat-Free Lake to quench the fires of anguish in his heart. He proclaimed that he could fulfill his desire, “as a clear cool pond can satisfy all those who are thirsty.”3 Although HeatFree Lake and this place are different, the principle is exactly the same. Thus, Eagle Peak of India is now here at Mount Minobu in Japan. It has been a long time since you were last here. You should come to see me as soon as you possibly can. I am looking forward eagerly to seeing you.
How can I describe your sincerity? In truth, it is splendid!
Nichiren
The eleventh day of the ninth month in the fourth year of Koan (1281)
Reply to Nanjo
E
EasyMyohoDisco
Without taking issue with anything else that pb had to say, I want to point out for the purpose of dialog that pb has added the parenthetical "(the Oneness of person and the Law)" and it is his perception of what is being referred to here. It is not a clarification found in the text of the background information from page 748. pb is entitled to his opinion.
In my opinion, the whole paragraph "When this wisdom exists — when the “water of wisdom” fills the “riverbed of reality”— it is known as the fusion of reality and wisdom. This is enlightenment. In other words, one illuminates and manifests the Law in one’s own life." is referring to the principal of kyochi-myogo (the fusion of reality and wisdom), and not nimpo-ikka (the Oneness of the Person and the Law). Nothing in the definition of nimpo-ikka discusses the fusion of our lives with the Gohonzon. However that is exactly what kyochi-myogo is, and refers specifically to this fusion of reality and wisdom.
fusion of reality and wisdom
[境智冥合] (Jpn kyochi-myogo )
The fusion of the objective reality or truth and the subjective wisdom to realize that truth, which is the Buddha nature inherent within one's life. Since enlightenment, or Buddhahood, is defined as the state in which one fully realizes the ultimate reality, the fusion of reality and wisdom means enlightenment. T'ient'ai (538-597) discusses this principle in The Words and Phrases of the Lotus Sutra. In The Annotations on "The Words and Phrases of the Lotus Sutra," Miao-lo (711-782) associates Shakyamuni Buddha and Many Treasures Buddha as they are portrayed in the "Treasure Tower" (eleventh) chapter of the Lotus Sutra with the fusion of reality and wisdom. This chapter describes Shakyamuni Buddha seated side by side with Many Treasures Buddha in the treasure tower. Miao-lo writes that these two Buddhas seated in this manner signify the fusion of reality and wisdom. Nichiren (1222-1282) identifies the Law that underlies the fusion of reality and wisdom as Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, and asserts that he embodied his enlightenment to that Law—the fusion of reality and wisdom—in the form of the Gohonzon, the object of devotion he established. In terms of Buddhist practice for people in the Latter Day of the Law, Nichiren maintained that, when they chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo with deep faith in the Gohonzon, they achieve the fusion of reality and wisdom within their own lives and are thus able to manifest the Buddha nature and attain Buddhahood. According to Nichiren, the Buddha nature constitutes reality, and faith in the Gohonzon, the embodiment of that nature, corresponds to wisdom. Nichiren states: "Reality means the true nature of all phenomena, and wisdom means the illuminating and manifesting of this true nature. Thus when the riverbed of reality is infinitely broad and deep, the water of wisdom will flow ceaselessly. When this reality and wisdom are fused, one attains Buddhahood in one's present form....What then are these two elements of reality and wisdom? They are simply the five characters of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo" (WND/746).
I hope this gives additional clarity to the points being made and sincerely appreciate the continuing efforts pb makes almost daily to share his understanding of the Gosho.
Bowing in humble obeisance,
Thomas
I recently learned that in order to become One with the Law there must be a fusion of the person with the law and that is in my opinion me chanting in front of the Gohonzon. I see that your post is talking exactly about doing gongyo and experiencing our ascent to Eagle Peak and participating in the ceremony of the air. I believe that anyone who is the same mind as Nichiren is worthy of respect, when we chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo in front of the Gohonzon we are essentially of the same mind as Nichiren. That is where I have found the oneness of MyohoDisco with The Law.
I also agree that Nobody can replace Nichiren, but many other special Bodhisattvas have come along since Nichiren that have done shakubuku. To reference my former post a little bit, I am so glad that I can relish President Ikeda's messages (now) and his writings because they are all fundamentally based on Nichiren Daishonin's intent and will for our Land of The Eternally Tranquil Light. Cherishing these Bodhisattvas as the Budhas that they are, just like Bodhisattva Never Disparaging always did, is in my opinion what Nichiren's mandate to me is as an active participant of kosen-rufu in America.
I now understand why Socal, Tom, Babba and others have consistantly posted President Ikeda's guidance and that is because those of the "Same mind as Nichiren" truly seek to fuse their lives with the merciful Gohonzon. Thus, it is more important than ever for us to raise successors to our understanding and teaching so that future generations will firmly grasp our desire and intent for kosen-rufu and continue this going forward into eternity. I now use a consider amount of President Ikeda's guidance to prime my Gosho studies and lectures because they serve as a great springboard to keep other Bodhisattvas focused on kosen-rufu for the rest of our lives. Before when i only quoted The Goshos my speeches and words carried more of a historical and stoic tone as a opposed to a more colorful appreciation of our organization's history based on the unbroken chain of entrustment of this amazing Practice from Nichiren to Nikko to Nichimoku to Nichikan to Other Priests to Makiguchi to Josei Toda to President Ikeda to Ted Osaki & Tony Matsuoka to Tom to Babba to Me to many others...
Since Josei Toda we have had the great fortune and unceasing dedication of many great SGI leaders who continue to hold high the banner of Soka based on Nichiren's will and intent. I treasure our Soka culture and our online society of Chanting Growers. As you can see in my words, I truly feel that I'm growing everyday in spirit and hope with each of you!
Thank you for the post and I hope yall have a great weekend!
E
EasyMyohoDisco
Another Glorious day over here my good friends! I'm soo pleased to have started the day with a powerful expression of my beliefs and an even more fruitful exercise of my faith through the entire day. Two nights ago, I had to answer some other posts and didn't have time to post about something huge that happened. My good friend Amby that I helped receive Gohonzon two years ago (plus) calls gongyo the "little book" and he only chants everyday and doesn't do Gongyo. He actually did Gongyo a couple nights ago with us over here and led us. He really tried and did much better in the second part. I was soo happy and amused when he rang the bell three times for each silent prayer, but the effort he put in this gongyo was beyond words! I was so amused throughout the "Ceremony in the Air" with his determination and enunciation of the words that I laughed joyously a couple times and he kept going on strongly!
Ohhh I love to hear my friends do gongyo, that is truly music to my ears! My other friend Jack, that isn't chanting yet, calls Gongyo "the song" and he thinks its pretty cool! My friends in my life that don't chant are very compassionate about my Buddhist practice and sometimes even great me by saying Nam-myoho-renge-kyo! My co-worker Perri pronounces Nam-myoho-renge-kyo to me perfectly and she is Jewish. My hope is that through the hard work we're doing to secure peace throughout the world and in our neighborhoods, we continue to chant with sincere faith to the Gohonzon everyday without fail. It is so hard sometimes to do so, I know, but let's keep trying!
Remember tomorrow morning join me from 8am-10am in your timezone to Chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo! for two hours! I will have to do the last fifteen minutes in my car as I drive to a meeting, but we will be together in spirit during the entire time!
What a great day! I hope yall are safe, happy and in good spirits! If not, please know I will do what I can with what I have to help you in anyway I can if you let me know!
Best regards,
MyohoDisco
Ohhh I love to hear my friends do gongyo, that is truly music to my ears! My other friend Jack, that isn't chanting yet, calls Gongyo "the song" and he thinks its pretty cool! My friends in my life that don't chant are very compassionate about my Buddhist practice and sometimes even great me by saying Nam-myoho-renge-kyo! My co-worker Perri pronounces Nam-myoho-renge-kyo to me perfectly and she is Jewish. My hope is that through the hard work we're doing to secure peace throughout the world and in our neighborhoods, we continue to chant with sincere faith to the Gohonzon everyday without fail. It is so hard sometimes to do so, I know, but let's keep trying!
Remember tomorrow morning join me from 8am-10am in your timezone to Chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo! for two hours! I will have to do the last fifteen minutes in my car as I drive to a meeting, but we will be together in spirit during the entire time!
What a great day! I hope yall are safe, happy and in good spirits! If not, please know I will do what I can with what I have to help you in anyway I can if you let me know!
Best regards,
MyohoDisco
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