Repudiating the Nichiren Shoshu Priesthood under Nikken

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Key Points / Summary:

Some Background:

1. Post Nichiren Daishonin demise, Nikko Shonin carried forward the legacy by forming organization called - Nichiren Shoshu.
2. The organization based on the principle of Lotus Sutra and Nichiren Daishonin’s Writings (Gosho)
3. It continued to carry the legacy through 700 years.
4. If someone needs to practise Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism, they need to affiliate to Nichiren Shoshu.
5. This is what was done by Makiguchi Sensei as well when he formed Soka Kyoiku Gakkai.
6. However, while Nichiren Shoshu over the period of time became more of ritual practice focusing more on ritual practice such as visiting temple, conducting memorial service, funeral service.
7. In essence, it became like the case with the most Buddhist schools in Japan.
8. However, Makiguchi Sensei ran Soka Kyoiku Gakkai in the most democratic and open way. Sticking to the essence of Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism.
9. Conducting discussion meeting, enabling each person to actualize happiness in the midst of life’s real challenges and to contribute to the peace and prosperity of society.
10. Also, during military government mandate to accept Shinto Talisman, while Soka Kyoiku Gakkai and Makiguchi Sensei refused to accept it, the Nichiren Shoshu succumbed to the pressure and infact also mandated Soka Kyoiku Gakkai to accept it.
11. Since its establishment, the Soka Gakkai grounded itself completely on faith that is directly connected to Nichiren Daishonin.
12. Taking actions to spread the Daishonin’s teachings to create happiness for all people and bring about world peace.

Nikken Sect:

1. Refers to the priesthood of the Nichiren Shoshu Buddhist school in its corrupt state under the leadership of Nikken Abe.
2. Nikeen Abe claimed to be the 67th in the lineage of its high priests.
3. The sect has taken the position that they are chief administrator, possess absolute and uncontestable authority and power when it comes to anything related to Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism.
4. Similar to Ryokan of Gokuraku-Ji temple during Nichiren Daishonin’s time, who outwardly garnering respect from people, got revered from people while covertly harbored animosity toward the Daishonin.
5. Ryokan conspired to have Nichiren Daishonin persecuted.
6. Ryokan personified “an arrogant sage” as mentioned in Lotus Sutra as “Three Powerful Enemies”
7. In contemporary times, the same “an arrogant sage” was personified by Nikken who tried to destroy Soka Gakkai, an organization working to accomplish the Daishonin’s will of kosen-rufu.
8. Even though he transferred the office of high priest to a successor, Nichinyo in 2005, but the lineage he has passed on continues to be muddied by his slander of the law.

Overview of the Priesthood Issue

1. As Soka Gakkai started to make great strides in spreading kosen-rufu not only in Japan but around the world under Ikeda Sensei, Nikken started harboring animosity against Soka Gakkai.
2. He felt as if he losing control over Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism.
3. In 1990, he conceived and ‘Operation C’ where ‘C’ means to cut the Soka Gakkai. His aim was to sever relations with Soka Gakkai and take control of its members, turning them into subservient followers of the priests.
4. In Dec 1990, they announced that they are dismissing President Ikeda from his position as chief lay representative of Nichiren Shoshu.
5. They refused to conduct any discussion with Soka Gakkai regarding this decision.
6. On Nov 7, 1991, the priesthood sent the Soka Gakkai a document titled ‘Remonstrance to Disband” and on Nov 28, a document “Notice of Excommunication”.
7. There was no justification or reference from passages for Nichiren Daishonin’s writings to support their notice of excommunication. It simply repeated its assertion in an authoritarian and emotional manner that the Soka Gakkai was not obediently following the priesthood.
8. They also refused to confer the Gohonzon upon members of the Soka Gakkai
9. They used Gohonzon as a bait to attract members to leave Soka Gakkai and follow priesthood.
10. Nevertheless, in 1993, Soka Gakkai with the cooperation of a temple that had opposed Nikken’s actions decided to confer upon its members around the world a Gohonzon transcribed by Nichikan Shonin.
11. In 1998, Nikken Sect demolished the Sho-Hondo (Grand Main Temple), an edifice at the Nichiren Shoshu head temple, Taiseki-Ji, built in 1972 by the Soka Gakkai through sincere faith and contributions of some eight million people.

The major offenses and erroneous doctrines of the Nikken Sect

1. Premise that there is a secret mysterious heritage or lineage that gets passed on from one high priest to another. However, there is no evidence in Daishonin’s writings to justify or support it.
2. This is far removed from the essential meaning of the heritage of faith, the heritage taught by the Daishonin.
3. It amount to a fiction concocted in later times in order to bolster the status and authority of the high priest.
4. Deluded belief that they are superior and followers need to worship them and look down on lay believers
5. They started regarding themselves as infallible and an object of worship or veneration, one must follow him without any questions.
6. They started claiming that high priests and Dai-Gohonzon are inseparable and that faith in both must be absolute. Equating themselves or a person to Dai-Gohonzon.
7. This belief is in total contradiction to Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism.
8. In “The Twenty-Six Admonitions of Nikko”, Nikko Shonin writes, “Do not follow even the high priest if he goes against the Buddha’s Law and propounds his views”
9. From these “Admonitions of Nikko”, it is clear that the view that the high priest is infallible promoted by Nikken sect is completely misguided.
10. Promoting religious rituals practise as a means of making money. They started funeral and memorial service, the bestowal of posthumous Buddhist names, issuing of wooden memorial tablets to be placed beside the grave.
11. However, these rituals were not instituted by the Daishonin but became established in later times. Nichiren Daishonin always stressed that attaining Buddhahood depends on own’s faith and practice while alive.
12. Nikken sect also consistently behaved in a corrupt and self-indulgent manner, in stark violation of the Daishonin’s instruction.
13. Committing “Cardinal Sin” of Causing Disunity in the Buddhist order.
14. Creating Disunity in the Buddhist order is one of the greatest offense a person can commit as the ‘five cardinal sins’
15. Five Cardinal Sins are
    1. Killing one’s father
    2. Killing one’s mother
    3. Killing an arhat
    4. Injuring a Buddha
    5. Causing disunity in the Buddhist Order
16. Nikken created disunity in Buddhist order by creating disruption and division among the body of Buddhist practitioners.
17. Trying to destroy Soka Gakkai, the only organization who was striving to achieve worldwide kosen-rufu. A grave slander of the Buddhist Law and the great offense of betraying the Daishonin’s spirit.

Spiritual Independence:

1. On Nov 28, 1991, the day when Soka Gakkai was delivered a notice of “ex-communication” from the Nichiren Shoshu actually became the day when Soka Gakkai members got their spiritual independence.
2. It freed them from the chains of the corrupt and misguided priesthood.
3. Soka Gakkai members have emerged from all over the globe, the number grew steadily and now actively practising in 192 countries and territories worldwide.
4. While Nikken sect membership is continuously on decline with total membership less than 2% of Soka Gakkai.
5. By striving to achieve the Daishonin’s will for kosen-rufu, the Soka Gakkai has succeeded to the true heritage of Nichiren Buddhism

The History of Soka Gakkai & The Three Presidents Part 4

 

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Key Points / Summary:

May 3 - Inauguration of the third president of the Soka Gakkai

1. After Toda Sensei’s death, Daisaku Ikeda took full responsibility of manageent and leadership.
2. On May 3, 1960, he was inaugurated as the organization’s third president.
3. It was on same day in 1951, May 3 1951, Toda Sensei was inaugurated as the second president.
4. A new period of great development for the Soka Gakkai began.

October 2 - First step in a journey toward worldwide kosen-rufu

1. On Oct 2, 1960, a few months after becoming president, President Ikeda left Japan for North and South America.
2. It was the first step in a journey to spread the teaching of Nichiren Buddhism around the world.
3. In Jan 1961, he visited Hong-Kong, India and other destinations in Asia.
4. In Oct 1961, he traveled to Europe
5. He traveled extensively, opening a path toward spreading of mystic law throughout the entire world.
6. He also start writing in 1965 under pen name “Ho Goku”.
7. He started by writing “The Human Revolution” which had 12 volumes. Purpose was to correctly transmit the history and spirit of the Soka Gakkai to future generations.
8. The Human Revolution portrays the efforts and struggles of the three founding presidents of Soka Gakkai as they strove to build a foundation for the happiness and peace of humankind.
9. Ikeda Sensei also wrote “The New Human Revolution” which has 30 volume and which portrays Ikeda Sensei’s journey to spreading kosen-rufu worldwide.

Jan 26 - Establishment of the Soka Gakkai International

1. Post world war-2, Toda Sensei changes the name of organization from Soka Kyoiku Gakkai to Soka Gakkai.
2. The intent was to advance kosen-rufu, build numerous capable individuals and playing important role in various fields of society.
3. With that intent, Soka Gakkai created a number of specialized groups for educators, scientists, artists, writers, physicians etc.
4. Soka Gakkai also formed an independent political party known as Komeito in 1964.
5. Soka Gakkai also founded institutions such as the Institute of Oriental Philosophy, Min-On Concert Association, Tokyo Fuji Art Museum etc.
6. Ikeda Sensei also established a system of educational institutions such as kindergartens, Junior and senior high schools, colleges, university.
7. Ikeda Sensei also conducted dialogues with various leaders focusing on peace, culture and education on a global scale.
8. He initiated dialogues with China, and in 1974, 75 at the peak of cold war, he initiated visit to China, Soviet Union and USA engaging in talks with their top leaders in order to open path to peace and friendship.
9. On January 26, 1975, Soka Gakkai members representing 51 countries and territories gathered on Guam and established Soka Gakkai International appointing Ikeda Sensei as its president.
10. He did all of this and more keeping his mentor Toda Sensei’s dream and vision in mind. Toda Sensei had wish that the Soka Gakkai would one day become an important mainstay for the flourishing of peace and culture for all humankind.

A Succession of Awards and Honors

1. In commemoration of SGI day, on Jan 26, from 1983 onwards, Ikeda Sensei issued a peace proposal every year.
2. These proposals are valued highly by many around the world.
3. He delivered more than 30 lectures at universities and institutions around the globe.
4. Conducted more than 1600 dialogues with world leaders, thinkers and cultural figures.
5. His dialogue with Prof Toynbee has been issued in around 30 languages gaining praise as a ‘guidepost for global culture’ and ‘a textbook for humanity’.
6. Dialogues helped in connecting different culture, mutual respect, understanding and forge solid bond.
7. In 1995, SGI charter was adopted, making clear the principles of humanism the SGI stands for.
8. In 1996, the Toda Peace Institute was founded, focusing on the legacy of the teachings and principles of Josei Toda.
9. Across the world, societies and communities, organizations and nations have acknowledged SGI contribution and effrots towards peace, culture and education.
10. Many parks, centres are named after first three presidents to honor their commitment.
11. Ikeda Sensei has been conferred with many honors and medal by nations, municipalities and educational institutions.
12. Honored with doctorate, professorships, citizenships from numerous cities and countries.

The New Era of Worldwide Kosen-Rufu

1. A new era of worldwise kosen-rufu was started with inauguration of “The Hall of the Great Vow for Kosen-rufu” completed in Nov 2013 and situated at Shinanomachi, Tokyo.
2. At the entrance, Ikeda Sensei wrote - “ Kosen-rufu is the path to attaining universal peace and prosperity. It is our great vow from time without beginning for the enlightenment of all people”
3. Through the efforts of the Soka Gakkai, Nichiren Buddhism now shines as a great source of hope throughout the world, like a sun illuminating all humankind.

The History of Soka Gakkai & The Three Presidents Part - 3

 

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Key Points / Summary:

Shared Struggle of Mentor and Disciple to Rebuild the Soka Gakkai

1. Taking Toda Sensei as his mentor, he deepened his study and understanding of Buddhism and vowed to live his life for the sake of kosen-rufu.
2. In Jan 1949, he started to work at Toda’s publishing company as the editor of a magazine for boys.
3. Ikeda Sensei exerted himself fully to settle Toda’s business affaris, solving the financial crisis, owning full responsibility so that Toda Sensei can focus completely on Soka Gakkai.
4. On the other hand Toda Sensei took complete care of young Ikeda, personally instruct him, provide him with a broad education which Ikeda Sensei fondly call “Toda University”.
5. Toda Sensei would continue to personally instruct and educate Ikeda Sensei till very last year of his death.
6. He would share his vision for the future, establishing Soka University, making Seikyo Shimbun a newsletter to spread kosen-rufu etc.
7. Daisaku Ikeda took each of his vision and dream into heart and made it reality.

Toda Sensei vow to achieve 750,000 households membership

1. Having overcome business troubles, finally Toda Sensei agreed to become Soka Gakkai president on May 3, 1951.
2. On May 3, 1951, as a Soka Gakkai president, he declared his vow to achieve 750,000 households when at that time only 3,000 households were practising !!
3. His young disciple, Daisaku Ikeda, watched as his mentor made this declaration, and he determined in his heart to accomplish the goal so bold that some assumed that President Toda had misspoken
4. Toda Sensei trusted Ikeda Sensei for this task as well and directed him to became chapter advisor for Kamata chapter in Tokyo.
5. For the first time, in a single discussion meeting, 201 new households joined in the month of Feb 1952.
6. This event, known as Kamata Campaign gave thrust to kosen-rufu activities across Japan and became a turning point after which the Soka Gakkai’s progress toward achieving its membership goal of 750,000 households accelerated rapidly.
7. Also in April 1952, Nichiren Daishonin’s letter which we also call Gosho were compiled, edited and published so that everyone can base their faith and take guidance through Gosho itself.
8. In May 1956, Ikeda Sensei led propagation campaign in Osaka chapter and achieved an unprecedented membership increase of 11,111 households in just one month.
9. And finally in Dec 1957, within just 6 years, Soka Gakkai achieved the target of 750,000 households from just bein 3,000 !!

Soka Gakkai Entry into Politics

1. In April 1955, Soka Gakkai decided to enter into elections based on principle of “On Establishing the Correct Teaching for the Peace of the Land”.
2. Remarkable increase in propagation activities especially in places like Kansai and Osaka was getting noticed by everyone.
3. Major daily newspaper in Japan were covering these propagation activities and Soka Gakkai’s entry into politics.
4. Further, in recent election, three candidates endorsed by Soka Gakkai had been elected to the House of Councillors.
5. The sudden emergence of a burgeoning grassroots network that could impact on national politics was greeted as a threatening development by the political establishment.
6. Vester powers and interests began to attempt conspire ways to stop the Soka Gakkai organization.

Yubari Coal Mining Incident - June 1957

1. In Yubari area, which is dominated by coal mines and unions, Soka Gakkai candidate won defeating union supported candidate.
2. The union, feeling threatened, initiated a campaign of intimidation and media propaganda against Soka Gakkai members and their families in the town, most of whom worked in or were in some way affiliated with the coal mines.
3. Soka Gakkai members working in the mines were harassed and threatened, houses of Soka Gakkai members marked and their prayer meetings disrupted.
4. Door-to-door visits were organized to persuade members to renounce their faith, and many felt their livelihoods threatened.
5. Toda dispatched Ikeda to Yubari to resolve the situation.
6. Under his leadership the local Gakkai members rallied and openly challenged the constitutionality of the union's actions, calling on them to justify their assault against the freedoms of speech and religion.
7. Unable to publicly defend itself, the union backed down and ceased its harassment.

This, however, was merely the beginning of the Gakkai's struggles.

Osaka Incident - July 3, 1957

1. Just after leaving Yubari, Ikeda was unjustly arrested by Osaka Police.
2. A few Soka Gakkai members were charged with soliciting votes during the election and Ikeda was arrested as main accused.
3. This incident - arrest of Ikeda Sensei in Osaka on Jul 3, 1957 is known as Osaka Incident.
4. A number of Soka Gakkai members had been charged with violating the random vote solicitation clause of the Election Law and the prosecutors accused Ikeda of responsibility.
5. Ikeda was subjected to 15 days of intense interrogation.
6. He was threatened to admit the crime else they will arrest President Toda who was very frail at that time.
7. Arresting him and putting him through jail and interrogation would have surely led to his death.
8. To protect his mentor and Soka Gakkai, Daisaku Ikeda admitted the charges for time being.
9. Finally on July 17, he was released from prison.
10. Over next four and half years, Ikeda Sensei fought batter in court and finally on Jan 25, 1962 he was pronounced guilty of all charges.

Mar 16 - Kosen-Rufu Day

1. On March 16, 1958, Just a few months after achieving a target of 750,000 households, 6000 youth were gathered at Grand Lecture Hall, Taiseki-ji.
2. They were called upon from all over the Japan on the call of their mentor Josei Toda
3. At this ceremony, Toda Sensei entrusted them with every aspect of kosen-rufu.
4. This was the day when baton of kosen-rufu was passed on to young successors. They were entrusted with the great wish and vow for kosen-rufu.
5. This day is celebrated as “Kosen-Rufu Day” in Soka Gakkai.
6. Just a few days after, on April 2, 1958, Toda Sensei passes away. He was 58 year old.
7. Basing himself on the awakening he achieved while in prison, buit Soka Gakkai and constructed indestructible foundation for kosen-rufu.

The History of Soka Gakkai & The Three Presidents Part - 2

 

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Key Points / Summary:

Toda Sensei’s Awakening in Prison

In Prison, Toda Sensei exerted himself in chanting and reading Lotus Sutra.

He would read Lotus Sutra again and again till he truly imbibe and understand each phrase.

He used to ponder over, contemplate over the phrases again and again.

Through this profound contemplation, he realized that he himself was a Boddhisattva of the earth whose mission was to accomplish kosen-rufu.

He also awakened to a realization that “The Buddha is life itself”

This awakening to his mission became the primary inspiration behind the revival of Buddhism and powerful progress of Soka Gakkai.

The time of Second Soka Gakkai President - Josei Toda

Post world war-2, on July 3, 1945 Josei Toda emerged from prison

All the other members had given up faith under the authorities pressure.

He lived 2 years of his life in confinement and his mentor Tsunasaburo Makiguchi passed away in prison while upholding the law.

Soka Gakkai was completely in ruin. He immediately starts to undertake the construction of the organization.

Japan was going through very dark phase with no jobs, illness & poverty.

People stopped believing in Shinto Talisman however there was no solid philosophy to start basis life on.

Toda Sensei determined to spread Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism and lead the people away from suffering and confusion.

Since now the organization’s goal would be not only to carry out the educational reform, but to accomplish kosen-rufu, in line with that purpose, the name was amended from Soka Kyoiku Gakkai to Soka Gakkai

Soka Gakkai Means Value-Creating Society.

Similar to his mentor Makiguchi Sensei, Toda Sensei started conducting discussion meetings, dialogues and offering guidance in faith.

Ikeda Sensei

Ikeda Sensei was born in Tokya area on January 2, 1928.

He was only 9 years old when Sino-Japanese was started and 13 at the time of world war-2.

As war intensified, his four elder brothers were taken into military and sent into battle.

To support his family, he worked in factory while suffering from tuberculosis.

It was highly physical distress time and emotional trauma time during world war

When his eldest brother came to home for some time from battlefield, he described the horrifics of war.

After the war ended, he came to know that his eldest brother had been killed in Burma.

It was very difficult time and all these happened because of war !!

His own house was burnt during air raid and he had become bitterly aware of war’s injustice and cruelty

Also, he started thinking deeply about the questions of life and death.

Encounter between Mentor and Disciple

Under this background, when he was just 19 years old, On Aug 14, 1947, Daisaku Ikeda attended his first Soka Gakkai discussion meeting.

There he met Josei Toda, who would become his lifelong mentor.

Toda Sensei was delivering a lecture on “On Establishing the correct teaching for the peace of the land” and as soon as he finished, Daisaku started asking questions

What is the correct way to live? What is a true Patriot? What is the meaning of “Nam Myoho Renge Kyo”, “What do you think about the Emperor”

A series of questions that were very profound considering his young age of 19.

Toda’s answers which were clear, concise, well-reasoned and with deep conviction made immense impression on young Daisaku and he could sense that he can trust him.

Finally on Aug 24, Ikeda Sensei joined Nichiren Buddhism at the age of 19 while at that time Toda Sensei was aged 47.

Shared Struggle of Mentor and Disciple to Rebuild the Soka Gakkai

Taking Toda Sensei as his mentor, he deepened his study and understanding of Buddhism and vowed to live his life for the sake of kosen-rufu.

In Jan 1949, he started to work at Toda’s publishing company as the editor of a magazine for boys.

Ikeda Sensei exerted himself fully to settle Toda’s business affaris, solving the financial crisis, owning full responsibility so that Toda Sensei can focus completely on Soka Gakkai.

On the other hand Toda Sensei took complete care of young Ikeda, personally instruct him, provide him with a broad education which Ikeda Sensei fondly call “Toda University”.

Toda Sensei would continue to personally instruct and educate Ikeda Sensei till very last year of his death.

He would share his vision for the future, establishing Soka University, making Seikyo Shimbun a newsletter to spread kosen-rufu etc.

Daisaku Ikeda took each of his vision and dream into heart and made it reality.

Toda Sensei vow to achieve 750,000 households membership

Having overcome business troubles, finally Toda Sensei agreed to become Soka Gakkai president on May 3, 1951.

On May 3, 1951, as a Soka Gakkai president, he declared his vow to achieve 750,000 households when at that time only 3,000 households were practising !!

His young disciple, Daisaku Ikeda, watched as his mentor made this declaration, and he determined in his heart to accomplish the goal so bold that some assumed that President Toda had misspoken

Toda Sensei trusted Ikeda Sensei for this task as well and directed him to became chapter advisor for Kamata chapter in Tokyo.

For the first time, in a single discussion meeting, 201 new households joined in the month of Feb 1952.

This event, known as Kamata Campaign gave thrust to kosen-rufu activities across Japan and became a turning point after which the Soka Gakkai’s progress toward achieving its membership goal of 750,000 households accelerated rapidly.

Also in April 1952, Nichiren Daishonin’s letter which we also call Gosho were compiled, edited and published so that everyone can base their faith and take guidance through Gosho itself.

In May 1956, Ikeda Sensei led propagation campaign in Osaka chapter and achieved an unprecedented membership increase of 11,111 households in just one month.

And finally in Dec 1957, within just 6 years, Soka Gakkai achieved the target of 750,000 households from just bein 3,000 !!

Soka Gakkai Entry into Politics

In April 1955, Soka Gakkai decided to enter into elections based on principle of “On Establishing the Correct Teaching for the Peace of the Land”.

Remarkable increase in propagation activities especially in places like Kansai and Osaka was getting noticed by everyone.

Major daily newspaper in Japan were covering these propagation activities and Soka Gakkai’s entry into politics.

Further, in recent election, three candidates endorsed by Soka Gakkai had been elected to the House of Councillors.

The sudden emergence of a burgeoning grassroots network that could impact on national politics was greeted as a threatening development by the political establishment.

Vester powers and interests began to attempt conspire ways to stop the Soka Gakkai organization.

Yubari Coal Mining Incident - June 1957

In Yubari area, which is dominated by coal mines and unions, Soka Gakkai candidate won defeating union supported candidate.

The union, feeling threatened, initiated a campaign of intimidation and media propaganda against Soka Gakkai members and their families in the town, most of whom worked in or were in some way affiliated with the coal mines.

Soka Gakkai members working in the mines were harassed and threatened, houses of Soka Gakkai members marked and their prayer meetings disrupted.

Door-to-door visits were organized to persuade members to renounce their faith, and many felt their livelihoods threatened.

Toda dispatched Ikeda to Yubari to resolve the situation.

Under his leadership the local Gakkai members rallied and openly challenged the constitutionality of the union's actions, calling on them to justify their assault against the freedoms of speech and religion.

Unable to publicly defend itself, the union backed down and ceased its harassment.

This, however, was merely the beginning of the Gakkai's struggles.

Osaka Incident - July 3, 1957

Just after leaving Yubari, Ikeda was unjustly arrested by Osaka Police.

A few Soka Gakkai members were charged with soliciting votes during the election and Ikeda was arrested as main accused.

This incident - arrest of Ikeda Sensei in Osaka on Jul 3, 1957 is known as Osaka Incident.

A number of Soka Gakkai members had been charged with violating the random vote solicitation clause of the Election Law and the prosecutors accused Ikeda of responsibility.

Ikeda was subjected to 15 days of intense interrogation.

He was threatened to admit the crime else they will arrest President Toda who was very frail at that time.

Arresting him and putting him through jail and interrogation would have surely led to his death.

To protect his mentor and Soka Gakkai, Daisaku Ikeda admitted the charges for time being.

Finally on July 17, he was released from prison.

Over next four and half years, Ikeda Sensei fought batter in court and finally on Jan 25, 1962 he was pronounced guilty of all charges.

Mar 16 - Kosen-Rufu Day

On March 16, 1958, Just a few months after achieving a target of 750,000 households, 6000 youth were gathered at Grand Lecture Hall, Taiseki-ji.

They were called upon from all over the Japan on the call of their mentor Josei Toda

At this ceremony, Toda Sensei entrusted them with every aspect of kosen-rufu.

This was the day when baton of kosen-rufu was passed on to young successors. They were entrusted with the great wish and vow for kosen-rufu.

This day is celebrated as “Kosen-Rufu Day” in Soka Gakkai.

Just a few days after, on April 2, 1958, Toda Sensei passes away. He was 58 year old.

Basing himself on the awakening he achieved while in prison, buit Soka Gakkai and constructed indestructible foundation for kosen-rufu.

The History of Soka Gakkai & The Three Presidents - Part - 1

 

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Key Points / Summary:

Soka Gakkai carried forward the legacy of Nichiren Daishonin by spreading kosen-rufu in later day of the law.

It was made reality by the relentless efforts of its first three presidents. Let’s learn about the life, struggles and mentor-disciple relationship of the first three presidents of Soka Gakkai.

First Three Presidents

Tsunasaburo Makiguchi

Josei Toda

Daisaku Ikeda

We refer to the three founding presidents with the honorific title - Sensei.

Makiguchi Sensei

Toda Sensei

Ikeda Sensei

“Sensei” in Japanese means “Teacher”

Let’s learn about each of the first three Soka Gakkai Presidents

Makiguchi Sensei:

He was born on June 6, 1871

In his early teens, he moved to Hokkaido, under the care of a relative.

He worked hard in his studies while working and able to entered into Hokkaido Normal School.

After graduation, he became a schoolteacher.

In 1901, he moved to Tokyo and held the post of principal at several elementary schools in Tokyo.

He had keen interest in philosophy and how to implement it in day to day life. Infact, he wrote one book - “The Geography of Human Life” which we published in 1903, when he was just 32 years old.

His hope and vow was to focus on “happiness” as a key driver.

He based on the principle of focussing on happiness and linking it to daily life also put forth one theory of value that could serve as a foundation for the unique pedagogy.

He encountered Nichiren Buddhism which is based on Lotus Sutra at 1928, at the age of 57.

He joined Nichiren Buddhism through Nichiren Shoshu, a Buddhist school that derived its teachings from the lineage of Nikko Shonin, the Daishonin’s direct disciple and successor.

Being philosopher himself, he immediately realized the essence of Lotus Sutra. In his words - “ Encountering the Lotus Sutra, I realized the teachings of the sutra in no way contradict the principles of philosophy and science that form the basis of our daily life”

Also “With an indescribable joy, I completely changed the way I had lived for almost 60 years”

Josei Toda:

He was born on Feb 11, 1900

Can you tell me the age gap between Makiguchi Sensei and Toda Sensei? (29)

When he was 2 years old, his family moved to Hokkaido region.

After the age of 14, he started studying on his own while working.

He cleared teaching certification and started his career as a teacher in Hokkaido town of Yubari.

Mentor Disciple Relationship Between Makiguchi Sensei and Toda Sensei

A young Josei Toda of 19 years old met Tsunasaburo Makiguichi in Tokyo.

Young Toda was seeking a mentor in his life which he saw in 48 years old Mr Makiguchi.

They two readily took to each other.

Soon young Josei Toda started to regard Makiguchi Sensei as his mentor and supporting him in every possible way.

They both were educators and used to discuss in length on value creation and during one of those discussion word “Soka” came about.

Soka means creation of value.

In 1928, when Makiguchi Sensei took faith in Nichiren Buddhism by becoming member of Nichiren Shoshu, Toda Sensei also followed him and he also took faith in Nichiren Buddhism and became member of Nichiren Shoshu.

Establishing Soka Gakkai - November 18

As we discussed earlier, Makiguchi Sensei was an educator and philosopher.

He already published his book way back in 1903 and was working on how can education be used for value creation and happiness.

Based on his education methods and using education as a means to create values, on November 18, 1930, Makiguchi Sensei published his work under the title “Soka Kyoikugaku Taikei”

Soka Kyoikugaku Taikei = The System of Value-Creation Pedagogy.

Total 12 volumes were intended to be published but eventually 4 were published.

This is how books credentials looked like

Book Name - Soka Kyoikugaku Taikei

Author - Tsunasaburo Makiguchi

Publisher & Printer - Josei Toda

Publishing House - Soka Kyoiku Gakkai (Value-Creating Education Society)

Soka Kyoiku Gakkai later became Soka Gakkai.

This was the first time, the name Soka Kyoiku Gakkai name had appeared in public.

For this reason, November 18 is celebrated as Soka Gakkai’s Founding Day.

Journey of Soka Kyoiku Gakkai

Initial idea of Soka Kyoiku Gakkai was to be an association of educators interested in value creation through education initiatives.

However, being deeply influenced by Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism, non educators also started joining Soka Kyoiku Gakkai and soon it became a group of people practising Nichiren Buddhism.

Though, they all were members of Nichiren Shoshu as well but Soka Kyoiku Gakkai used to work independently and did not rely on priests for its management or for providing guidance pertaining to faith.

Unlike typical religious organisation (Nichiren Shoshu), which focuses to visit temples, participate in ceremonies such as funeral, memorial etc, Soka Kyoiku Gakkai focussed on holding open discussion meetings, leaders going to member’s place and providing guidance and encouragement in faith.

Soka Kyoiku Gakkai membership eventually increased to 3,000 members.

Makiguchi Sensei stood up to authority

During world war-2, Japan military government was under tremendous pressure to put more citizens into war.

In order to get citizen around the military government, to make them support the actions of military government, they started to control the thoughts of citizens

To do so and to make sure, all start thinking alike, military government mandated everyone to follow same religion of Shinto Talisman.

Govt declared it as state religion and everyone had to follow it. Pressuring citizens to visit and offer prayers at Shinto shrines and worship Sun Goddess.

Soka Kyoiku Gakkai’s discussion meetings and activities were put under surveillance.

Nichiren Shoshu Succumbed to Govt Pressure

In June 1943, Nichiren Shoshu mandated Soka Kyoiku Gakkai through Makiguchi Sensei to also accept Shinto Talisman.

Makiguchi Sensei adamantly refused to accept it as the same was equivalent to slander of the law.

Challenging Japan’s Military Govt

Finally, on July 6 1943, Makiguchi Sensei and Toda Sensei were arrested for violating the dignity of the emperor and charges of violating the preservation of peace.

21 more leaders of Soka Kyoiku Gakkai were also arrested.

In the end only Makiguchi Sensei and Toda Sensei persisted while others left faith and accepted Shinto Talisman.

He didn’t accept Shinto Talisman and took all the torture and interrogation even at such old age.

He even preached Nichiren Daishonin’s teachings to interrogators.

On Nov 18, 1944, Makiguchi Sensei, at the age of 73, passed away in prison.

He didn’t succumb to interrogation and tactics of authorities even at such old age for more than 16 months !!

He lived his life true to Daishonin’s teaching and never hesitant to risk his life to do so.

Faith Equals Daily Life

 

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Key Points / Summary:

Concepts that are core to practising Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism in daily life

1. The Causality of Benefit and Loss
2. Heavenly Gods and Benevolent Deities
3. Many in Body, One in Mind
4. Faith Equals Daily Life
5. Importance of one’s behavior as a human being

1. The Causality of Benefit and Loss

Causality of Benefit

Cause (action) = Practising and upholding Nam Myoho Renge Kyo.

Benefit (Effect) = Reward by practising Ultimate Law of Universe

What is Law of Universe = Nam Myoho Renge Kyo

Practising Means = Practise for oneself and for others (Compassion)

So What are the Rewards

1. Attaining Buddhahood in this Lifetime = Absolute Happiness, Happiness that doesn’t depend on our external environment
2. Protected by Heavenly Gods and Deities
3. Wisdom and Courage to Overcome our problems and challenges
4. Derive Good Fortune and Happiness from any situation or circumstance.

More on Rewards:

1. Our Buddhist practice enables us to tap and manifest our Buddha nature, and clear proof of this will appear as benefit in our everyday affairs and over the course of our lives. We will be able to live each day filled with happiness and good fortune without fail
2. Those who uphold and practice the mystic law will exude from within the fragrance of happiness and virtue, will be loved and trusted by others, and will be protected and supported in their daily endeavors and throughout their lives

What Nichiren Daishonin States about these rewards?

1. “Believe in this Mandala (Gohonzon) with all your heart. Nam Myoho Renge Kyo is like the roar of a lion. What sickness can therefore be an obstacle?”
2. It is written that those who embrace the daimoku of the Lotus Sutra will be protected by the Mother of Demon Children and by the ten demon daughters. Such persons will enjoy the happiness of the wisdom king Craving-filled and the good fortune of the heavenly king Vaishravana. Wherever your daughter may frolic or play, no harm will come to her; she will move about without fear like lion king.
3. Those who now believe in the Lotus Sutra will gather fortune from ten thousand miles away.

Now let’s talk about

Causality of Loss

Cause (action) = Slandering / Disparaging Nam Myoho Renge Kyo. Going Against the principles of cause & effect.

Loss (Effect) = Experiencing bad effects / actual loss in the context of their daily lives.

So, if you are experiencing loss in your daily life. Then

1. Take it as a warning, become aware of it, Reflect on it and seek to correct one’s attitude in faith
2. Summon the resolve to practice the mystic law more deeply and sincerely.
3. Use it as an opportunity to go to correct path and reclaim rewards.

2. Heavenly Gods and Benevolent Deities

1. Symbolic way to articulate that those who practice law of universe will get protection from environment.
2. The forces in environment that protect us are personified in Buddhism as Gods and Deities.
3. Helps in visualizing these protective forces in our environment.
4. These protective forces increases if we practice correctly.
5. The strength of the protection we receive depends on the strength of our faith and practice as we uphold and protect the mystic law.

3. Many in Body, One in Mind

Introduction of Concept:

1. Many in body, One in mind is one of the most important concepts in Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism.
2. This concept also underlines fundamental principle of Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism i.e. respecting each and every life and their unique traits.
3. Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism doesn't impose any physical appearance conformity in terms of dress code or look.
4. Rather, it respects and cherishes the diversity.

Let's understand what this concept is all about and how we can apply it in our day to day life

Explaining "Many in Body"

1. Many in body means the diversity among individuals.
2. Every individual has their own unique characteristics, personalities, qualities, and abilities and social position.
3. Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism teaches us that we need not talk or look similar but we should respect each person's individuality.
4. Respect and treasure one another, accept the way they are, and help to bring the best in one another.
5. Every person is unique with their unique circumstances. We should embrace, acknowledge and respect it while learning from each other.
6. Allowing each other's potential to shine and become better every day.

Just like cherry, Plum and Peach are all unique and different in their own way, similarly, when we look around ourselves, we see that every individual even in our family has their own unique personality.

Explaining "One in Mind"

One in Mind = Same Intent and Purpose

Joining our hearts and minds in sharing the great wish and vow to achieve kosen-rufu.

1. One in Mind means to work together towards common goal of worldwide kosen rufu i.e. world peace by spreading Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism.
2. While respecting each other's unique traits, we should all move ahead together in same direction of practising Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism for oneself and for others.
3. One in Mind indicates faith, to join our heart and mind to advance while challenging and overcoming various problems and hardships through unity in faith.

Nichiren Daishonin says "If the spirit of "Many in body, one in Mind" prevails among other people, they will achieve all their goals, whereas, in one in body but different in mind, they can achieve nothing remarkable"

Let's take the example of Bamboo tree. Each bamboo stalk sprouts up independently , but underground their roots are connected. The world of faith is same . Because we share the same roots, because we share a common spirit and purpose , each one of us can grow limitlessly.

Summarising

This is a beautiful concept and shows the basic tenet of Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism.

1. Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism doesn't intend to bring any dress or look conformity among members,
2. Rather it aspires and preaches members to respect one another, help one another and work together to bring kosen rufu.
3. Many in body and one in mind can only be implemented when we respect one another and cherish one another’s unique attributes and abilities, while working in harmony to compensate for one another’s weaknesses.

To talk behind others backs, to gripe and complain and to plot and scheme- such behaviour points to selfishness and ego. It leads to gravest of offenses in buddhism as it disrupts the harmonious community of practitioners. Each person must set aside attachment to self and accomplish a profound inner transformation, what we call human revolution.

Work together, consistently meet others, engage in heart-to-heart dialogue, and study Sensei's guidance and writings.

4. Faith Equals Daily Life

In Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism, faith and daily life are not regarded.

Nichiren Daishonin states that “Regard your service to your lord as the practice of the Lotus Sutra”

Service to Lord = Work which we do in daily life : Job, Profession, Business. Responsibilities such as spouse, kids, parents etc.

Daily Life = Battleground where we apply Nichiren Buddhism’s principles and show actual proofs of Human Revolution.

It is not like that you are behaving good in meetings while at workplace you are regarded as unfriendly person or person who is not commanding respect.

We must be trusted by people in society and to win in all aspect of living.

5. One’s Behavior as a Human Being

Daishonin states, “The purpose of the appearance in this world of Shakyamuni Buddha, the lord of teachings, lies in his behavior as a human being”

This concept is somewhat related to “Faith Equals Daily Life”

The main purpose of Buddhism is to become “Better Human Being”

By applying faith in daily life

1. Show actual proof
2. Be a person of character - Trusted and Respected at work, communities
3. Also respect other people

3rd point is very important - Respecting others and totally believing in their Buddha nature.

Let’s look at the practice of “Boddhisattva Never Disparaging”

1. He always respected the potential for Buddhahood in all people
2. He used to meet with utmost respect with people
3. Whenever he encountered someone, Bodhisattva Never Disparaging preached the “24-character Lotus Sutra,” bowing respectfully and praising them: “I have profound reverence for you, I would never dare treat you with disparagement or arrogance. Why? Because you will all practice the bodhisattva way and will then be able to attain Buddhahood”

“Whether a person who has heard about Buddhism chooses to practice it or not is up to them. What matters is how many people we’re able to share Buddhism with, based on our genuine desire for their happiness.

We are all ‘Bodhisattvas Never Disparaging’ of the modern day, the Bodhisattvas of the Earth. We’re following the same great path of Buddhist practice as Nichiren.

Changing One’s Karma

 

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Key Points / Summary:

What is Karma and How do we Create Karma

1. “Karma” originates from Sanskrit word meaning - “Action”
2. Whatever action we do, it results in the reaction.
3. Action = Cause, Effect = Reaction
4. No matter whenever we do any actions, whether someone is observing us or not, we are creating a cause at that time for which effect is also decided at that time itself.
5. Now, whether that effect start showing up right away, after a year or many years or after multiple lifetimes, that depends on appropriate conditions to manifest it.
6. Our Karma in past lifetimes have the power to influence whether we are happy or unhappy in this life - This is also called as “Destiny”
7. Accumulation of negative causes from past lives = Sufferings in the Present - Health, Financial, Relationship Challenges
8. Accumulation of Positive causes from Past lives = Happiness in the Present - Peace, Happiness, Good Fortune

How Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism views Karma

1. Buddhism talks about continuity or eternity of life. Past—→ Present —→ Future
2. Past life Causes —→ Start Showing in Present
3. Present Life Causes —→ Start Showing in Future
4. Whatever causes created, that cannot be escaped. One need to face it for sure.
5. Also, as we discussed earlier, the effect cannot be preponed or postponed. As discussed earlier, the effect for a cause will only show in present when appropriate conditions to appear comes up.
6. Means, we cannot escape effects, and we need to wait for effects to show up and clear the past balance sheet.
7. What we can do is to not create any bad causes and wait for bad effects to show up and let them clean up.
8. But doesn’t it means that we are at a mercy of our destiny and we can’t really do much about it !!
9. Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism provides a way to change our destiny. To change our Karma, Get the past lives effects in this lifetime in a milder way (Zor ka Jhatka Dheere se Lage) and Why and where we assumed this current situation as well.
10. Let’s understand more about it in detail.

Changing One’s Karma

1. Practising Nichiren’s Buddhism has a power to change one’s Karma
2. Daishonin suggests that slandering the law or disparaging / belittle the Lotus Sutra is the most evil cause.
3. If we stop committing the ultimate evil of disbelieving and slandering the correct teaching and instead carry out the ultimate good of believing, protecting, and spreading it, then we can wipe out all of our negative karma

Lessening One’s Karmic Retribution

1. We definitely need to clean the slate of negative karma from past life.
2. When we start chanting and striving to spread the correct teaching - it enables use to receive the effects of all of our negative karma is this lifetime itself and in much less diminished form.
3. The effect of past negative karma that would have taken multiple lifetimes to appear and expiated is getting accelerated due to our diligent practice.
4. Not only we get the opportunity to clean up all of our past dues in this lifetime but also because of our practice, the effect comes up in a highly diminished form.

“Iron when heated in the flames and pounded, becomes a fine sword. Worthies and sages are tested by abuse. My present exile is not because of any secular crime. It is solely so that I may expiate in this lifetime my past grave offenses and be freed in the next from the three evil paths”

Voluntarily Assuming the Appropriate Karma

There is another and very important perspective with respect to Karma for people who are practising Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism.

1. As per Buddhism, living beings are born in particular times and places because of two different kinds of causes
   1. They are born either according to their wishes and vows or
   2. as a result of their karma.

Lotus Sutra teaches that Bodhisattvas though have lot of good fortune but still they chose to be born into a particular scenario, show actual proofs by overcoming through faith and lead other people to the path of enlightenment.

They have converted their “Karma into Mission”

Faith for Overcoming Obstacles

 

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Key Points / Summary:

Can anyone claim that they don’t have any problem?

Till the time one is alive = Problems will be there.

The better good you want to do, bigger problem you will face.

So, getting intimidated by problems or challenges is not an option. More so, when you are spreading the greatest good, which is kosen-rufu.

Now, idea is to understand, perceive and categorize the problem / obstacles so that we are better equipped to tackle them. We should not get influenced or frightened by them.

So, Lotus Sutra talks about different kinds of obstacles which we will encounter, remember I have used word “will” and not “may”, so it is bound to happen that we will encounter the obstacles.

and if we are not, that means we need to do more in Kosen-rufu to kind of validate that we are on right track.

Buddhism teaches that as we continue to persevere in our practice, obstacles and difficulties will arise without fail to obstruct us. It is crucial, then, that we be prepared for these, and strive to establish faith that cannot be compromised by any problem or adversity.

Nichiren Daishonin states “There is definitely something extraordinary in the ebb and flow of the tide, the rising and setting of the moon, and the way in which summer, autumn, winter, and spring give way to each other. Something uncommon also occurs when an ordinary person attains Buddhahood. At such a time, the three obstacles and four devils will invariable appear, and the wise will rejoice while the foolish will retreat”

Lotus Sutra not only states that we will find obstacles but also tell what these obstacles will look like so that we can identify clearly and be happy that we are on right track.

So, let’s quickly dive into different types of obstacles talked about in Lotus Sutra.

There are two concepts here

1. Three Obstacles and Four Devils
2. Three Powerful Enemies

Three Obstacles and Four Devils

Obstacles = Functions that hinder us in our faith & practice.

Three Obstacles

1. Obstacle of Earthly Desires

   1. Earthly Desires, Impulses - Greed, Anger and Foolishness (Three poisons)
   2. Obstacle of Karma - Evil acts (causes) in this life : Opposition from those close to one - Spouse and Children
   3. Obstacle of Retribution - Evil acts we did in past lives : Difficult circumstances into which we are born or have come to live. - Opposition from Sovereign and Parents

   If you observe the above, the common thing among all three is that these three obstacles are coming from external. It is coming from external environment may be because of our this life karma, past lives karma or through our greed, anger and foolishness which gets triggered by external environment.

   Four Devils

   In contrary to three obstacles, which were coming from outside, Four Devils talks about challenges that comes from workings within the hearts and minds of those who believe in and practice Buddhism.

   These four devils are

   1. Hindrance of the five components
      1. Disharmony among the workings of the body and mind
      2. sensual desires : Seeking pleasure through the five senses of sight, hearing, smell, taste and physical sensation
      3. ill will : Malice, hostility, resentment, hatred, bitterness
      4. Apathy & laziness : Half-hearted behavior with little or no effort or concentration
      5. anxiousness : the inability to calm the mind and focus energy
      6. and doubt : Lack of certainty or confidence in one's own abilities.
   2. Hindrance of earthly desires
      1. Greed, anger and foolishness that arise from within
   3. Hindrance of Death
      1. When practice is cut short due to his or her death
      2. Death of another practitioner, or of anyone close, causes one to doubt one’s Buddhist faith.
   4. Hindrance of Devil King
      1. Also called Devil King of Sixth Heaven
      2. Most fundamental kind of devilish function described in Buddhism
      3. It arises confusion in our mind - whether we really have Buddhahood or not. Or if the other person has Buddhahood or not - Fundamental Darkness
      4. It gives rise to fundamental darkness.
      5. Also, it will plant confusion in the mind of spouse, ruler, authority to stop you from practising, to persecute or oppress you.

Note - It is important to be aware that earthly desires such as greed, hunger and foolishness, spouses, children, parents, sovereign, death do not in themselves constitute obstacles and devils. Rather, what causes them to function as the three obstacles and four devils is the weakness of our own life force that allows us to be influenced negatively by them.

It is crucial to have the conviction that this is the very time for us to make great progress towards attaining Buddhahood and, as wise people who rejoice at such challenges, persevere in our faith, and overcome them.

The Three Powerful Enemies

Lotus Sutra also talks about three kind of opponents who will persecute those who strive to spread the sutra’s teachings in the Latter Day of the Law.

These three kind of opponents are called “Three Powerful Enemies”

1. Arrogant Lay People

   1. Ordinary people who are ignorant.
   2. Subjecting practitioners to cursing, abuse, speaking ill, slandering
   3. Even attacking with weapons

2. Arrogant Monks

   1. Buddhist clergy who fail to understand the correct teaching
   2. Attached to their own ways of thinking and believing themselves to be superior
   3. Harass and persecute the votaries of Lotus Sutra.

3. Arrogant False Sages

   1. Sages = Mostly residing in places removed from society
   2. Seemingly respect worthy priests and monks
   3. But internally they are consumed with greed and desire for profit
   4. Mostly works against votary of lotus sutra through conniving with authorities, senior officials,
   5. Attempting to motivate those in power to oppress them.

   Out of above 3, the third one is most formidable and pernicious. Reason is that very difficult to comprehend these respect worthy priests and what’s going on in their mind. Also, they generally don’t come directly and you only come to know about their intent when actually persecution happens.

If you look a common theme here - it is “Arrogance” means all these opponents will act in arrogant way - feeling superior, greater than other people, belittling others, displaying high handedness, feeling too much pride and importance in themselves.

With this, we conclude the topic but before saying bye, if you look at the life of Nichiren Daishonin, you will realize that he faced all the persecutions as written in Lotus Sutra.

If you go back to our video on “Life of Nichiren Daishonin”, you will actually map each of these challenges to his life’e events. And so with each of three presidents of Soka Gakkai.

Thank you so much.

Faith, Practice & Study

 

Video - https://youtu.be/9e2AN6n1y_Y

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Key Points / Summary:

Exert yourself in the two ways of practice and study. Without practice and study, there can be no Buddhism. You must not only persevere yourself, you must also teach others. Both practice and study arise from faith. Teach others to the best of your ability, even if it is only a single sentence or phrase.

We want to apply Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism in our daily life so that we can overcome all the challenges and attain absolute happiness. Today, we will discuss “How” part of it. How to apply Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism in our day to day life.

So,

What - Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism

Why - To attain Absolute Happiness

How - Faith, Practice and Study !!

There are three pillars of Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism. Think of it like a Tripod.

If Tripod needs to be stable, then all the three legs must be aligned and of equal length. Else, it will not be stable.

Same goes for Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism.

The three pillars to apply Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism in daily life and making most of it are:

1. Faith
   1. Faith = Belief, Complete Acceptance
   2. Faith & Anxiety, Faith & Doubt don’t exist together.
   3. Belief in Lotus Sutra, Gohonzon.
   4. Most important ingredient of Buddhist practise.
2. Practice
   1. At basic level means - Consistency
   2. Solid efforts and determination to transform and develop the lives.
   3. Practice has two elements - Practise for oneself and for others
3. Study
   1. Learning, Probing and “being curious” about Buddhist principles.
   2. Majorly being inquisitive

Faith:

1. Faith is belief and acceptance.
2. One can enter into Buddhism only through faith.
3. Having “Faith” is a starting point.. the first step in Buddhism
4. Without faith, no matter if you do 2 and 3 diligently, it will be all zero.

Practice:

1. Practice means consistency, continuous engagement based on first pillar of faith.

Practice for oneself (Primary Practice)

1. Striving ourselves to get personal benefits from Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism.
2. Chanting Nam Myoho Renge Kyo and doing Gongyo with faith in Gohonzon.
3. Personally striving to attain Buddhahood (absolute happiness)
4. Through continued daily practice of Daimoku and Gongyo, Polish the mirror of your life and make it shine.

Let’s talk a little about “Gongyo”

1. It refers to reciting portions of the Lotus Sutra.
2. Part of 2nd (Expedient Means) and 16th (Life Span) Chapter of Lotus Sutra.
3. They are the two most important chapter in Lotus Sutra.
4. As per Daishonin - “This is (Gongyo) is similar to a tarnished mirror that will shine like a jewel when polished. A mind now clouded by the illusions of the innate darkness of life is like a tarnished mirror, but when polished, it is sure to become like a clear mirror, reflecting the essential nature of phenomena and the true aspect of reality.

Practice for others:

1. Teaching others about Buddhism.
2. Helping, Assisting others to take on Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism and nurturing them to gain benefits from it.
3. Sharing & spreading the teachings.
4. It is the heart that is important. It is not about how eloquent or well versed you are.
5. Just teach others to best of your ability. That’s it.

But why should I practice for others?

1. Firstly, for ourselves to start with.
2. When we introduce Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism to others, it helps in deepen our own faith.
3. Wells up compassion within us.
4. We challenge our own fundamental darkness.
5. Best way to accumulate good fortune and change our own karma.

Practice for oneself and others must go hand in hand. Think of it like two wheels of a cart. They both need to move at same pace parallelly.

Study:

Studying Buddhist Teachings

1. Goshos
2. Concepts of Buddhism

Through study, we able to understand the reason of what is happening around us from Buddhism point of view.

Without proper study, there is a risk that we make our own interpretations or give our own guidance !!

These three are like circular - one leading to another.

Three Proofs

 

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Key Points / Summary based on Recommended Book:

It can also be called three types of proofs or three levels of proofs

1. Everyone looks for proofs.
2. Proofs acts as a way to validation.
3. Not all proofs are equal. Some proofs are better than the others.

Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism talks about three types or level of proofs to validate the teachings.

1. Documentary Proof
   1. The basic doctrine / philosophy should be based on a textbook.
   2. The teachings or philosophy foundation must be based on a actual book and not based on any one person’s opinion or interpretation.
   3. This textbook must act as single source of truth.
   4. In case of any dispute or confusion, there has to be a textbook one can refer to and get clarification.
   5. Nichiren Daishonin states “ One should accept what is clearly stated in the text of the sutras, but discard anything that cannot be supported by the text”
   6. In Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism, this documentary proof is “Lotus Sutra” expounded by Shakyamuni Buddha himself !!
   7. For us in Soka Gakkai, Goshos, Writings of Nichiren Daishonin also acts as a documentary proof.
2. Theoretical Proof
   1. Now, this is where according to me Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism stands out.
   2. So, next criteria to judge any philosophy is whether that religion’s doctrines and assertions are compatible with reason and logic.
   3. Buddhism is reason, rational and about logic.
   4. So this makes Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism stands out as it can be logically and rationally argued
3. Actual Proof
   1. There is a saying in hindi - “Pratyaksh ko Praman Ki Kya Avshyakta”
   2. Means - Something which is very much apparent doesn’t need any proof.
   3. That is the most important criteria to judge any philosophy.
   4. As Nichiren Daishonin states - “In judging the relative merit of Buddhist doctrines, I, Nichiren, believe that the best standards are those of reason and documentary proof. And even more valuable than reason and documentary proof is the proof of actual fact”
   5. Actual proof means that if anyone has actually experienced the benefits, positive results in one’e life and how positively it has impacted people and society.
   6. Ultimately, no matter how solid or sound the documentary proof or theoretical proofs are, if it cannot be realistically applied in daily life or cannot product positive impact, then it is of no use.
   7. Best way to judge any religion is how it has positively impacted, made people happy, empowered in their daily life.
   8. This type of proof is called Actual proof.

So, if you ever need to judge any religion or philosophy, now you have got the framework

1. Documentary Proof - Is it based on a text or opinion? Who wrote or expounded that book?
2. Theoretical Proof - Can you logically and rationally argue the principles or need to shut your eyes / mind and accept the things even if it is in conflict of logic and reason
3. Actual Proof - Can you see people who have got benefitted from it? People whose life positively impacted, became happier and better?

All three combined are important. It is not like that only 3 is important or only 2 is important.

All three are important and need to be checked to validate any philosophy or religion.

Ten Worlds

 

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Key Points / Summary:

Ten worlds is one of the most interesting Buddhism concepts. As per Buddhism, there are ten distinct states or ten distinct worlds. Think of ten worlds as 10 different emotions we may go through in a day. From the time we wake up to go to bed to sleep, through the day we may go through different states or moods

As per Budhhism, these states are described as 10 worlds. Let's start understanding these starting from the worlds which are lower , that is low life state to worlds with higher life state.

1.The World of Hell

1. It is the lowest state of Life.
2. Hell is a life state where you feel no Life Force, No Motivation, Feel Like Nothing Can Work Out, feel depressed with no way to get out.
3. We feel immense suffering as if entire world around us in inflicting suffering on us.
4. We feel rage, frustration, discontent either with ourselves for not achieving the results or on the world around us.
5. We feel complete hopeless and tormented.
6. Whatever happens around us, we see it colored by our unhappiness and misery.

2.The World of Hungry Spirits

1. Also knows as life state of hunger
2. Hunger is a life state where you are driven by greed. Greed can be Money, Food or Power. Basically you are getting controlled by desires.
3. No matter how much you get it, you will still feel starved or wanting to have more
4. You are getting controlled by desires and enslaved by them.

3.The World of Animals

1. Also knows as life state of animality.
2. Animality is an emotion where you feel the law of jungle. That is Survival of Fittest Instinct.
3. Threaten the weak and fear the strong.
4. Trying to get along with influential people even when they are not right and trying to suppress people who are weak in society.
5. You are acting on instinct and not on Judgement of right and wrong, good and evil.
6. Since you are acting on instinct, you are focusing on immediate rewards and not giving thought to future consequences.

4.The World of Asuras

1. Also known as world of Anger.
2. Anger is an emotion wherein you get in Rage.
3. You are obsessed with personal superiority or self importance, always comparing to others.
4. Anger is not just about losing Temperament but also if you are harbouring Jealousy or animosity.
5. They may appear to be people of virtue and fine characters, may even pretend to be humble but deep inside they are filled with jealousy and resentment.
6. Huge gap between outward appearance and inner reality. Hypocrisy and Self Deception.
7. Perversity is the world of Asuras
8. Perversity = concealing one’s true feelings in order to ingratiate oneself with others.

5.The World of Human Beings

1. Also known as world of Humanity
2. Calm, Composed State. “Calmness is the world of human beings”
3. Humanity is an emotion wherein you try to reason and think rationally.
4. Understand the principle of cause and effect
5. Can distinguish right and wrong, good and evil, can exercise self-control.
6. Need continuous efforts to sustain this state of life.
7. World of humanity is the first step towards a life state of winning over oneself.

6.The World of Heavenly Beings

1. Also known as world of rapture.
2. Rapture is the state when you Feel Joyful when your desire get fulfilled.
3. The feeling when you get high score, praises or eat your favorite food.
4. The Joy you get when you listen favorite music or meet your favorite sportsperson.
5. However, this life state is very temporary and short lived.
6. It is not lasting and fades away with the passage of time.
7. In that sense, the world of heavenly beings is not the state of genuine happiness that should be our ultimate aim.

These Six emotions or life state are combinedly called six Lower Paths as these emotions are easily influenced by external circumstances or the external environment.

The aim of Buddhist practise is to transcend the six paths and develop a self-determined state of happiness that is not controlled by external circumstances.

Now let's understand four better emotions or worlds which combinedly are called Four Noble Paths. They are the awakened states of life a person can develop through Buddhist practice.

7.The World of Voice-Hearers

1. Also knows as world of Learning.
2. Attained by those who gain a partial awakening through hearing the Buddha’s teaching.
3. Learning is life state when you want to understand and comprehend the workings of life. When you are motivated from within to learn, read and understand.
4. You get awakened to the impermanence of all phenomena.

8.The World of Cause Awakened Ones

1. Also knows as world of Realization
2. Attained by those who gain a partial awakening through their own observations & efforts.
3. Realisation is the life state wherein you discover something based on learning.
4. However in this state you are Self Determined but self-centred. You are focussing on using the knowledge for yourself and not help others.
5. You get awakened to the impermanence of all phenomena.

Persons of the two vehicles

The world of voice-hearers and cause awakened together referred to as the ‘persons of the two vehicles’.

1. Persons of two vehicles get awakened to the impermanence of all phenomena.
2. The awakening of two vehicles in imperfect and partial.
3. Persons of two vehicles are content with this lesser degree of enlightenment.
4. They do not seek the complete enlightenment as they thing they are not capable of it.
5. They do not make efforts to help others to get to enlightenment.
6. Focusing only on themselves and inclined to self-absorption.

9.The World of Bodhisattvas

1. Bodhisattva means a living being who strives continuously to attain the enlightenment of the Buddha.
2. Bodhisattva is a state wherein you not just help yourself to reach Buddhahood but also relentlessly help others to gain enlightenment and has a strong seeking spirit.
3. Believes everyone has the potential to become Buddha and helps other people to reach Buddhahood.
4. The essence of the world of Boddhisattvas is compassion.
5. Those in the life state of bodhisattva direct this spirit of compassion to all people and make it the foundation for their lives.

10. The World of Buddhas

1. Buddhahood is the supreme life state wherein you are in the state of absolute happiness that nothing can destroy.
2. It is likened to the spirit of a lion king - a state of complete ease and confidence in which, like the lion king, one fears nothing.
3. Has immense wisdom and courage to take action for the wellbeing of all people, and compassion flowing from within.
4. Awakened to the fact that Mystic Law is the foundation of one’s being.
5. Life state inherent in all of us but difficult to manifest.
6. Daishonin incribed the Gohonzon as a means for all people to bring forth from within them the life state of Buddhahood.
7. When we believe in the Gohonzon and chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo for the happiness of ourselves and others, we can tap the life state of Buddhahood within us.
8. Lotus Sutra states that we all people are inherently Buddhas.

Mutual Possession of Ten Worlds.

1. The most interesting and revolutionary part of the ten worlds is concept of mutual possession of ten worlds.
2. The beauty of this concept is that anyone at any moment can become Buddha showcasing the potential of every life. At the same time, it also states that you can go down to the world of hell from the state of Buddhahood in a moment.
3. So, basically, every state contains nine other states in it. You can be in hell at one moment but in the next moment, you can move to hunger or to realization.
4. This acknowledgment makes us humble and vigilant and keeps on checking our behavior.
5. Also gives us hope that regardless of our current life state, we can summon Buddhahood and create value in every situation.
6. It also keeps on our toes that Buddhahood is not an ultimate and static state but fluctuating as well. You need to keep on exerting yourself to remain at Buddhahood from one moment to another.

Attaining Buddhahood in the lifetime and Kosen-rufu

 

Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WTi_J55ZbWQ

Quiz - https://quizizz.com/join?gc=87322157

Key Points / Summary:

What is the Purpose of Practising Buddhism?

1. Attaining Buddhahood
2. Happiness for Oneself and for Others

Attaining Buddhahood is not equal to

1. Becoming Special Human Being
2. Started looking different from what we are
3. Moving to some other world
4. Being born next time in a pure land

Then what does attaining Buddhahood means?

1. Opening up or Revealing our innate Buddhahood (Qualities)
2. Establishing a state of absolute and indestructible happiness in where ever we are.
3. Appreciating our uniqueness
4. Developing our innate talent to the fullest.
5. Not getting swayed by hardships

So attaining Buddhahood is a process of manifesting the life state of a Buddha, which is originally present within all the people.

So basically, I can attain Buddhahood in MY PRESENT FORM !!

Absolutely !! People can realize the life state of a Buddha just as they are, without having to reborn and changing their present form as ordinary person.

The Daishonin says that “one comes to realize and see that each thing - the cherry, the plum, the peach, the damson - in its own entity, without undergoing any change, possesses the eternally endowed three bodies (of the Buddha)”

I understand that I must appreciate my uniqueness and not compare myself with others. I should focus on my innate talent to the fullest and don’t get swayed by hardships.

Also, It is not the achievement of final goal. It is a continuous struggle based on faith in the mystic law to eliminate evil and create good.

But didn’t understand “Absolute Happiness”. What does it means?

So, there are two types of happiness

1. Relative Happiness
   1. This happiness depends on external conditions or circumstances.
   2. We get happy in relation to this external factors.
   3. Such as promotion, eating favorite food, kids doing well in school, appreciation at workplace
   4. Since, it depends on external factors, it is short lived.
   5. As soon as the external environment changes, we cease to be happy or happiness starts receding.
2. Absolute Happiness
   1. Doesn’t depend on any external factor or circumstance
   2. You are happy from within but why?
   3. For being alive itself !! No other reason.
   4. The happiness is coming from within your life.
   5. Also, while relative happiness disappears with death, absolute happiness stays with us till eternity.

This is good. I can relate to relative happiness now. So, does relative happiness is not good ?

Should I stop getting happy or stop having desires to be first, to excel at workplace or desire to see my kids doing well?

No, it doesn’t mean that you start detaching from everyone around you or stop being happy or stop having desires.

In fact, Lotus Sutra talks about concept called “Earthly desires are Enlightenment”

Now, remember, we started with a concept that we can attain Buddhahood in present form itself.

What is present form?

It means at wherever you are, whatever circumstances you are in and you can attain Buddhahood while fulfilling your duties as an ordinary person.

It is not telling you to go out in Himalayas or become sanyasi or desist yourself from all the relations.

So in essence, you need to find this absolute happiness within yourself while fighting the daily life battle !!

In fact, these earthly desires like getting promotion, healthier, better relationship, kids welfare, parents wellbeing etc.

So instead of getting sad and giving in to present circumstances, accepting the status quo and living life like that, Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism states that to use these earthly desires to challenge the situation, don’t accept the status quo.

Just like muddier the water, more blooming of Lotus.

Similarly, The wonderful thing about faith in Nichiren Buddhism is that it enables those who suffer the most to attain the greatest happiness and those who experience the most daunting problems to lead the most wonderful, meaningful lives.

So, do not run away from problems or accept the problems as part of life, but use these challenges or earthly desires to attain absolute happiness.

How does other types of Buddhism views attainment of Buddhahood?

1. Basically Buddhism is divided into two major buckets - Mahayana Buddhism and Hinayana Buddhism.
2. Mahayana Sutras other than Lotus Sutra teach the attainment of Buddhahood but they require atleast two conditions
   1. Condition 1: You cannot belong to be a practitioner of two vehicles (voice-hearers and cause-awakened one), evil people and women
   2. Condition 2: You need to engage in Buddhist practice for repeated cycles of birth and death.

In Contrast, Lotus Sutra states

1. Each person can reveal the life state of Buddhahood
2. Can achieve it in single life !!

Sounds Great !! But How to do it? What is the secret sauce to do it?

Now, when we understood what and why of Attaining Buddhahood, now let’s talk about “How” part.

Happiness for oneself

1. When we believe in Gohonzon and chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, you can turn all these worries and concerns into fuel to propel yourselves forward—you can transform them into life force, into greater depth of character and into good fortune.
2. I therefore hope you will challenge all kinds of problems, chant abundantly about them, and develop yourselves along the way.

Happiness for Others

1. First treatise or major writing that Nichiren Daishonin wrote was “Risho AnkokuRon” - “On Establishing the Correct Teaching for the Peace of the Land”
2. “If you care anything about your personal security, you should first of all pray for order and tranquility throughout the four quarters of the land, should you not?”
3. Establishing the Correct Teaching = Promoting Faith, “Peace of the Land” = Realizing peace and prosperity, safety and security of all individuals
4. We must not content with just our own happiness but must actively engage in seeking solutions to the problems and issues facing society.
5. The aim of Buddhism is to do Kosen-rufu - share and spread the correct teaching, guiding all people toward attaining the life state of Buddhahood and realize peace and prosperity for all humanity
6. We are Bodhisattvas of the Earth who vowed to Shakyamuni Buddha to spread kosen-rufu in latter day of the law.
7. Achieving kosen-rufu, the widespread propagation of the mystic law, is the fundamental spirit of Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism.

Soka Gakkai’s Key Role in Propagation of Nichiren Buddhism

1. Soka Gakkai actively engages in society through peace, culturem education and human rights initiatives based on Nichiren Buddhism.
2. It is the organization of Bodhisattvas of the Earth fulfilling the mission of kosen-rufu.
3. It is only Soka Gakkai, that is able to widely spread the mystic law. No other organization since 700 years after the Daishonin’s death has been able to propagate kosen-rufu so far and wide.
4. Carrying on the mission of kosen-rufu, acting in accord with the Buddha’s intent.

Nam Myoho Renge Kyo

 

Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2gXvHOW5BGQ

Quiz https://quizizz.com/join?gc=68636163

Key Points / Summary:

1. Nam Myoho Renge Kyo is the essence of Buddhism and the fundemental law that pervades the entire universe and all life.
2. Perceived by Nichiren Daishonin for resolving the suffering of all humanity.
3. Nichiren Daishonin since early days had a very high seeking spirit and made a mission to study Buddhist scripture to find the real truth and true aspect of all phenomenon.
4. He kept on researching and studying and after 20 years of extensive study, He came to the conclusion that Lotus Sutra is the supreme teaching of Gautam Buddha and the essence or benefits of Lotus Sutra can be obtained by chanting the title of Lotus Sutra.
5. He put “Nam” before the title of Lotus Sutra. Nam means devotion, respectful and that’s how the mantra “Nam Myoho Renge Kyo” came into existence.
6. the law of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is the essential principle, or means, for attaining Buddhahood.
7. Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is the enlightened life state of Buddhahood, or true identity, of Nichiren Daishonin.
8. When we chant Nam myoho renge kyo with faith, we can manifest the life state of Buddhahood.
9. Nichiren Daishonin made Gohonzon for our Buddhist practice so that we ordinary people can manifest Nam myoho Renge Kyo in our lives and attain Buddhahood
10. When we believe in Gohonzon and accepting that it is inherent in our own lives, we can tap the mystic law that resides within us and manifest our inherent Buddhahood.
11. We can bring forth in our lives wonderful benefit and good fortune and triumph over hardships through our practice of the mystic law.

Meaning of Nam Myoho Renge Kyo

Let's look into each element of Mantra and understand its meaning.

Nam

1. Nam word as already discussed, means to devote onself, be respectful

Myoho

1. Myo is the mystic nature of life which is unseen, or latent which is beyond intellectual understanding
2. 'Myo' also corresponds to the enlightened world of Buddhahood, to open, to revive, and to be fully endowed with the qualities we need to develop our lives
3. ho refers to tangible phenomena which are concrete, manifest and visible is the manifestation of it.
4. ho' corresponds to the other nine worlds which, unless they are experienced from the perspective of Buddhahood, are a source of delusion and fundamental darkness.

Thus, combining Myo and ho i.e. Myoho, expresses both the enlightened nature of a Buddha and the deluded nature of an ordinary person, and the fact that they are essentially one.

Renge

1. Renge means lotus flower that has the unique property of blooming and seeding at the same time.
2. This bloom and seed signify the laws of cause and effect.
3. As soon as the cause is created, the effect is also seeded then and there only. Blooming i.e. Cause can be seen however seeding i.e. effects are unseen currently but rest assured that this seed will sprout sooner or later.
4. Also, Lotus also symbolises the power inherent in all human beings.
5. Just like Lotus can bloom in muddy water, similar we can bloom and be prosperous amid difficult circumstances and challenges.

Kyo

1. Kyo means Sutra, Voice or teaching of the Buddha.

So in literal sense, if I combine Nam Myoho Renge Kyo, it states that I devote my life to mystic law of cause and effect that permeates all life and throughout eternity

The Life of Nichiren Daishonin Part 5

 

Key Points / Summary:

Atsuhara Persecution (Sep, 1279)

1. Remember we talked about Nikko Shonin?
2. Post Nichiren shifting to Mount Minobu, Nikko Shonin moved to Fuji district (Suruga Province) and propagated Nichiren Daishonin’s teaching widely
3. He converted lots of Tendai school followers and priests !!
4. This widespread movement puzzled, befuddled and created panic in military government.
5. On Sep 21, 1279, 20 followers of Nichiren Daishonin were picked from Atsuhara area (Fuji District) and were taken to Kamakura.
6. They were tortured and pressed to abandon their faith.
7. But they didnt give up !!
8. In this episode, due to incessant torturing, 3 followers - Jinshiro, Yagoro and Yarokoro were ultimately executed and rest 17 were banished from their place of residence.
9. Now this event is very significant for a few reasons
   1. First time, direct persecution by authorities was done on disciples of Nichiren Daishonin
   2. The faith of these disciples was so strong that they didn’t budge even on the face of death and imminent torture
   3. Most importantly, these farmers showed that they have got connected to the Law and not to the person. Remember, Nichiren after May 1275, was residing in Mount Minobu while these farmers were practising in Fuji district - Atsuhara area
   4. They were fostered and guided by Nikko Shonin.
10. Considering these significances, Nichiren Daishonin understood that the faith of disciples is now strong and this teaching will now be championed by ordinary people.
11. While Shijo Kingo stood besides Nichiren Daishonin during Tatsunukochi persecution, Nanjo Tokimitsu helped and worked tirelessly to protect his fellow members as he lived in neighbouring village of Atsuhara
12. Also, this Atsuhara persecution has high influence on inscription of Gohonzon by Nichiren Daishonin.
13. The Gohonzon which we get through SGI is based on “Dai Gohonzon” inscribed by Nichiren Daishonin on Oct 12, 1279.

Last years

1. Can you tell me when did Nichiren Daishonin shifted to Mount Minobu?
2. It was in May 1274.
3. By that time, he aged - 53 years. Majority of his life he lived outside home, in exile and faced multiple persecutions.
4. By this age, his health started to decline and finally after being in Mount Minobu for 8-9 years, in Sep 1282, he left Mount Minobu
5. He wanted to go to hot springs in Hitachi province but stayed at Ikegami brothers place for some time
6. Even in ill health, he continued to deliver lecture on “Risho AnkokuRon”
7. Finally, on Oct 13, 1282 at the age of 61, he passed away.
8. After Nichiren Daishonin’s death, Nikko Shonin carried on his mentor’s fearless spirit and advanced Kosen-Rufu.
9. Nikko Shonin established school named - Nichiren Shoshu and continued to guide disciples based on Lotus Sutra and Nichiren Daishonin’s teaching.

The Life of Nichiren Daishonin Part-4 (Sado Exile and Shifting to Mt Minobu)

 

Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g4wNRqZ9v8A

Quiz - https://quizizz.com/join?gc=91165502

Key Points / Summary :

Post Tatsunokuchi Persecution (Post Sep 12, 1271)

From Sep 1271 to Jan 1272

When they didn’t able to execute Nichiren, then they decided to send him to a far away and deserted area called - Sado Island. He started living in Sado Island from Nov 1, 1271.

On Jan 16 & Jan 17, 1271, in an attempt to kill Nichiren was made by several hundred Buddhist gathered but they were convinced to get on a religious debate instead.

In the religious debate, Nichiren refuted the erroneous teachings thoroughly.

This debate is known as “ Tsukahara Debate”

Nichiren continued to stay in Sado Island and his follower - Nikko Shonin who later became the Daishonin’s successor remained at his side throughout his Sado exile.

Feb 1272

Internal strife started in Kamakura and Kyoto region.

Daishonin prediction of “Internal Strife” in Risho AnkokuRon became true

Can you tell me in how many months the prediction came true from the time of Tatsunokuchi Persecution?

In Feb 1272, Daishonin wrote very important Gosho “Opening of the Eyes”

“Opening of the Eyes”, clarified the object of devotion in terms of the Person.

It revealed Nichiren’s identity as Buddha of the Latter day of the Law endowed with three virtues of Sovereign, Teacher and Parent to lead all people in latter age to enlightenment.

April 1273:

Nichiren wrote another important Gosho - “The Object of Devotion for Observing the Mind”

It clarified the object of devotion in terms of the Law.

Feb 1274:

He was finally pardoned and in March he returned to Kamakura from Sado island

He again confronted “Hei no Saemon-no-Jo” and unequivocally refuted True Word School.

Nichiren also predicted that Mongol invasion most certainly would happen by end of the year.

This is called Third Remonstration and as predicted, Mongol invasion happened in Oct 1274 !!

Remembered First Remonstration - “Risho AnkokuRon” in which Daishonin predicted two things - “Internal Strife” and “Foreign Invasion”

Internal Strife happened within 150 days of Tatsunukochi Persecution (in 1272) and now in Oct 1274, Mongol invasion also happened.

Let’s revise

First Remonstration - Risho AnkokuRon in 1260

Second Remonstration - During Tatsunokuchi Persecution in 1271

Third Remonstration - in 1274 when he was back from Sado island.

May 1274

Even after repeated remonstration when military Government authorities didn’t pay heed then finally Nichiren Daishonin to move away from Kamakura

In May 1274, he moved from Kamakura to Mount Minobu.

Though he moved away from Kamakura, however he continued to propagate and write letters to his disciples.

He now focussed on fostering disciples for the future of Kosen-rufu.

Do you remember “Nikko Shonin”? We pay gratitude to him in our silent prayers as a part of Gongyo !!

Nikko Shonin accompanied Nichiren during Sado exile.

Now, when Nichiren moved to Mount Minobu, Nikko Shonin also ventured into Fuji district to propagate Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism.

He wrote some of the significant Goshos such as - “The Selection of the Time”, “On Repaying Debts of Gratitude”

Do you remember in one of the silent prayers post Gongyo, there is a line that comes that talks about “ The Three Great Secret Laws”

Can anyone tell me what these “Three Great Secret Laws” are?

Object of Devotion of the essential teaching - Gohonzon

Sanctuary of the essential teaching - The place where you chant

Daimoku of the essential teaching - Nam Myoho Renge Kyo

These three great secret laws were also elucidiated by Nichiren Daishonin in Mount Minobu only.

The Life of Nichiren Daishonin Part-3 (From 1260 to 1271)

 

Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mwOXOY4YeRk

Quiz - https://quizizz.com/join?gc=88810957

Key Points / Summary:

Persecutions : Attempts to take Nichiren Life

1. Do you remember, the year (and date) when Nichiren published his first treatise (July 16, 1260)
2. Also, what was the name of Treatise ? (Risho AnkokuRon - On Establishing Correct Teaching for the Peace of the Land”
3. Remember this incident as this was the first time, Nichiren directly confronted the authorities.
4. This event is also known as his “First Remonstration”
5. And the series of Persecution started post this treatise only.
6. Nichiren very well knew the consequences of confronting and challenging authorities and especially Nembutsu School of Teaching which was highly prevalent and powerful.
7. Now, remember that whatever persecution Nichiren went through, it was because the authorities couldn’t take his life even after many attempts.
8. So, when they were failed to take life, he was sent to a long, deserted place. Let’s take a look at all the key persecutions Nichiren went through.

Persecution 1: Matsubagayatsu Persecution : Shortly After July 16, 1260 (When he submitted his treatise)

1. Nembutsu Followers barged into his house to kill him. However, he was able to escape unharm. After this incident, Nichiren left Kamakura for a short time.

Persecution 2: Izu Exile : May 12, 1261 to Feb, 1263

1. After he returned to Kamakura, he was arrested by authorities and sentenced to exile in Izu Province.
2. In Feb 1263, he was pardoned from exile and he again came back to Kamakura.

Persecution 3: Komatsubara Persecution : Nov, 1264

1. Nichiren went to see his ailing mother at Awa Province (his home province)
2. On Nov 11, Nichiren and some of his followers were on the way to the residence of another follower.
3. At a place called Matsubara in Tojo village, they were ambushed by armed men. In this attach, Nichiren sustained injury to head and a broken hand. One of this followers was killed.

Persecution 4: Tatsunokuchi Persecution: Sep 12, 1271

1. It is one of the major persecution. Because, during this time, one of the predictions that Nichiren made in “Rishu AnkokuRon” came true.
2. In “Rishu AnkokuRon”, Nichiren predicted about “Internal Strife” and “Foreign Invasion”
3. Also, it is for the first time the authorities directly tried to kill Nichiren Daishonin.
4. In Triumphing over the Tatsunokuchi persecution, he cast off his transient status as an ordinary human being and revealed his original and true identity as a Buddha.

Backdrop: The story starts from 1268.

Mongol Invasion Threat - “Foreign Invasion”

1. So, in 1268, an official letter arrived in Kamakura from the Mongol. Kind of challenging that either give up and become part of Mongol empire or perish. The Mongol invasion was almost imminent.
2. Nichiren wrote eleven letters of remonstration to senior Govt officials, reminding them that he already predicted the “foreign invasion” and also urged the senior priests to come in and have public debate
3. Instead of acknowledging the facts, senior priests and Govt officials looked at Nichiren and their believers as a threat to establishments.
4. Instead of heeding to Nichiren’s advice and public debate, they actually deployed “True Word” priests to conduct prayers for the defeat of Mongol forces.
5. Ryokan of Gokuraku-Ji Temple in Kamakura was given charge for the prayers. He was very influential at that time
6. Nichiren continued to refute the claims and erroneous teachings of True word school which were misguiding public and authorities.

Natural Calamity - Summer of 1271

1. Kamakura region was facing prolonged drought
2. Authorities again went back to Ryokan to pray for rain.
3. On learning about it, Nichiren again reached out to authorities and this time he challenged Ryokan that if he is able to bring rain within 7 days then he will become his disciple, else he should place faith in Lotus Sutra.
4. No rain appeared in 7 days.. even after 7 days extension no rain appeared.
5. Instead of accepting the defeat, he conspired with authorities to persecute Nichiren Daishonin.

Sep 10 - Sep 12 1271 Incidents (Second Remonstration)

1. On Sep 10, Nichiren was interrogated by “Hei no Saemon no-jo Yoritsuna”
2. On Sep 12, 1271, Nichiren was raided and arrested for being a “traitor”
3. On both Sep 10 and Sep 12, Nichiren fearlessly remonstrated with authorities and warned them if he toppled him - the pillar of Japan, then “internal strife” and “foreign invasion” would descend on the land.
4. Sep 10 and Sep 12 remonstration by Nichiren is termed as “Seconf Remonstration” with Government authorities.

Tatsunokuchi Persecution

1. On the same night of Sep 12 1271, Nichiren was taken to the outskirts of Kamakura to be secretly beheaded.
2. But as the executioner raised his sword to behead, a brilliant orb of light burst forth in the sky, all the soldiers were terrified and ran away.
3. The plan to executing the Nichiren Daishonin was abandoned.
4. It is highly significant event as in triumphing over the Tatsunokuchi persecution, he cast off his transient status and revealed his true identity.