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Brief Guidances

The Revitalizing Power of the Mystic Law

Words of Encouragement From Ikeda Sensei

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When I prayed for my mother, not only was her illness cured, but her life was prolonged by four years. Now you [the lay nun Toki] too have fallen ill, and as a woman, it is all the more timely for you to establish steadfast faith in the Lotus Sutra and to see what it will do for you.

“On Prolonging One’s Life Span,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, p. 955


This passage can be read as Nichiren Daishonin’s words of encouragement for all female disciples battling illness.

The revitalizing power of the Mystic Law is truly immeasurable. It allows us to make the best possible use of medical treatment, transform our karma and even prolong our lives.

The Daishonin would be deeply saddened if we were to lose confidence and give in to fear. We must confront the devil of illness with unshakable conviction in faith. The lion’s roar of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo will activate the curative function of Bodhisattva Medicine King inherent in our lives.

Let’s lead long, healthy, fulfilling lives, enacting hope-filled dramas of brilliant mission with energy and wisdom.

From the Aug. 25, 2019, issue of the Seikyo Shimbun, the Soka Gakkai’s daily newspaper

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