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The invocation of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo was established by
Nichiren Daishonin on April 28, 1253. Having studied widely among all the Buddhist sutras, he had concluded that the Lotus
Sutra contains the ultimate truth of Buddhism: that everyone without exception has the potential to attain Buddhahood. The
title of the Lotus Sutra in its Japanese translation is Myoho-renge-kyo. But to Nichiren, Myoho-renge-kyo was far more than
the title of a Buddhist text, it was the expression, in words, of the Law of life which all Buddhist teachings in one way
or another seek to clarify. What follows is a brief and unavoidably limited explanation of some of the key concepts expressed
by this phrase.
Nam
The word nam derives from Sanskrit. A close
translation of its meaning is "to devote oneself." Nichiren established the practice of chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo
as a means to enable all people to put their lives in harmony or rhythm with the law of life, or Dharma. In the original Sanskrit,
nam indicates the elements of action and attitude, and refers therefore to the correct action one needs to take and
the attitude one needs to develop in order to attain Buddhahood in this lifetime.
Myoho
Myoho
literally means the Mystic Law, and expresses the relationship between the life inherent in the universe and the many different
ways this life expresses itself. Myo refers to the very essence of life, which is "invisible" and beyond
intellectual understanding. This essence always expresses itself in a tangible form (ho) that can be apprehended
by the senses. Phenomena (ho) are changeable, but pervading all such phenomena is a constant reality known as myo.
Renge
Renge means lotus flower. The lotus blooms and produces seeds at the same time,
and thus represents the simultaneity of cause and effect. The circumstances and quality of our individual lives are determined
by the causes and effects, both good and bad, that we accumulate (through our thoughts, words and actions) at each moment.
This is called our "karma." The law of cause and effect explains that we each have personal responsibility for our
own destiny. We create our destiny and we can change it. The most powerful cause we can make is to chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo;
the effect of Buddhahood is simultaneously created in the depths of our life and will definitely manifest in time.
The
lotus flower grows and blooms in a muddy pond, and yet remains pristine and free from any defilement, symbolizing the emergence
of Buddhahood from within the life of an ordinary person.
Kyo
Kyo literally
means sutra, the voice or teaching of a Buddha. In this sense, it also means sound, rhythm or vibration. Also, the Chinese
character for kyo originally meant the warp in a piece of woven cloth, symbolizing the continuity of life throughout
past, present and future. In a broad sense, kyo conveys the concept that all things in the universe are a manifestation
of the Mystic Law.
Primary Practice
Chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo--also
known as "Daimoku"--is the primary practice of SGI members. Through this practice, one is able to reveal the state
of Buddhahood in one's life, experienced as the natural development of joy, increased vitality, courage, wisdom and compassion.
The secret is that there is no secret!
Buddhism teaches that a universal Law
(dharma) underlies everything in the universe. This is the very essence of life. One could also think of it as the
fundamental rhythm of life and the universe. Nichiren identified this Law or essence as Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. He taught that
by correctly carrying out the practice of Buddhism everyone is able to bring their individual life into harmony with the greater
life of the universe. The result of this is that one is able to experience greater wisdom, courage, life force and compassion
(the qualities of this life-essence). This, practically, is what it means to manifest Buddhahood, or an enlightened life condition.
SGI
members are encouraged to employ their Buddhist practice to squarely confront and overcome the specific challenges of their
daily lives. Through this process, one is able to appreciate and manifest the profound potential of one's life. Buddhist practice
also means to realize and unfold one's unique life purpose. SGI members believe that this process of inner spiritual transformation
or "human revolution" not only leads to individual empowerment and constructive action but is the surest way to
direct humankind's energies toward creating a peaceful and prosperous world.
Based on the teachings and philosophy of
Nichiren Daishonin, the Soka Gakkai International (SGI), a lay Buddhist organization, seeks to promote the values of peace,
culture and education. The practice of Buddhism exists for the happiness of each individual and the fostering of world peace.
Courtesy of SGI-USA
When going to West Africa you can contact Dr. Gbodosso Adjevi in Togo galida4@yahoo.fr
Wisdom for a new Era: Sensei said this " Hardships make us
strong. Problems give birth to wisdom. Sorrows cultivate passion. Those who have suffer the most, will become the happiest."
For more wisdom and quotes please click on the link underneath.
www.ikedaquotes.org
The Soka Gakkai's five eternal guidelines of faith
1. Faith for
a harmonious family
2. Faith for each person to become happy
3. Faith for surmounting
obstacles
4. Faith for absolute victory
