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We’ve written about the many rewards we gain from practicing Nichiren Buddhism in recent issues (see April 9, 2021, World Tribune, p. 10, and March 12, 2021, issue, p. 9). This time, we take a look at the benefit of receiving protection. One might think: For a religion that doesn’t worship a god or gods,

May 3 is like New Year’s Day for Soka Gakkai members (see “Our History”). It is a day to refresh our resolve to contribute to the happiness of all humanity. Nichiren Daishonin established the simple yet profound practice of chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, the essence of the Lotus Sutra, Shakyamuni Buddha’s highest teaching. This practice enables all

It’s human to want things. We look and work for what we think will bring us joy or make life easier and better. We also find satisfaction in achieving, learning or mastering something that holds value for us. The desire to improve our circumstances is what motivated many of us to take up the practice

Many of us may have experienced listening to someone share how they achieved something wonderful, only to be left thinking, How great for them, but I could never do something that amazing. Regarding the tendency to think less of ourselves, American philosopher Walt Whitman writes: Why what have you thought of yourself ? Is it

People begin practicing Buddhism for many reasons. Some come to Buddhism hoping to overcome a problem. Others are attracted to it because of its philosophy. And others find solace, clarity or energy from the practice of chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. No matter what drew them to it, many attest to experiencing benefits from their Buddhist practice. So

Great joy [is what] one experiences when one understands for the first time that one’s mind from the very beginning has been a Buddha. Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is the greatest of all joys. (The Record of the Orally Transmitted Teachings, pp. 211–12) Nichiren Buddhism teaches us how to develop a profound sense of happiness and purpose regardless

Greek philosopher Aristotle once said that for a person to be happy, they will need virtuous friends. Today, too, many are earnestly seeking a supportive community in which people of virtue offer mutual support and inspiration to one another. As Shakyamuni Buddha said, “Having good friends and advancing together with them is not half the

Iron, when heated in the flames and pounded, becomes a fine sword. (“Letter from Sado,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, p. 303) Making a sword involves forging iron, and tempering and folding it repeatedly to eliminate internal voids, weaknesses and impurities, increasing its structural strength. In the same way, when we repeatedly challenge

Gratitude is a positive emotion that has long been seen by religious leaders, philosophers and many others as an important virtue. A quick glance at the world today, however, may give us a sense that it is in short supply. At the same time, science has begun to acknowledge the tangible benefits of gratitude. Studies

“The Future Is Yours to Change”

Become the master of your mind rather than let your mind master you. (“Letter to the Brothers,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, p. 502) As 2020 comes to a close, we continue to face uncertainties amid the unprecedented global coronavirus pandemic. For many people, each day might be likened to an internal boxing match between

The holiday season, when many deepen their spirit of generosity and giving, is a good time to reflect on an important element of Buddhist practice: “almsgiving,” or making offerings to support the spread of Buddhism. This is an act that makes possible the endeavor to lead all people to enlightenment and happiness while implanting abundant

In light of the Mystic Law, everything we encounter has meaning and helps us move forward.

If you see a person who accepts and upholds this sutra, you should rise and greet him from afar, showing him the same respect you would a Buddha. (The Lotus Sutra and Its Opening and Closing Sutras, p. 365) How we greet people can make a difference in their lives. As Shakyamuni stated in the

The assembly on Holy Eagle Peak which continues in solemn state … has not yet disbanded. (The Record of the Orally Transmitted Teachings, p. 135) Creating dramatic change calls for sustained effort and conviction. Our daily Buddhist practice of chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo and engaging in SGI activities enables us to refresh and forge our determination to

It is through the use of words and letters that the Buddha saves living beings. … If one rejects the use of words and letters, then how can the Buddha’s work be done? (“Letter to Renjo,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 2, pp. 6–7) Nichiren Daishonin studied the vast body of Buddhist sutras, among

Most religions recognize and revere a founder, great sage or savior, and many, a supreme deity of some sort. Usually it is not an option for ordinary believers to consider themselves equal to these figures. This was even true among the Buddha’s disciples, who found it difficult to regard themselves as equal to the Buddha.

On Aug. 14, 1957, 10 years to the day since meeting Josei Toda, Ikeda Sensei was in Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture, attending to his ailing mentor. They discussed how Mr. Toda would compose his Declaration for the Abolition of Nuclear Weapons, which he delivered a month later on Sept. 8. This declaration became his final injunction,

Sharing Buddhism with others is a natural and essential part of Buddhist practice, because by doing so, we are able to develop compassion for ourselves and for others. Second Soka Gakkai President Josei Toda, speaking about this practice of compassion, once said: Compassionate action is “the work of the Buddha.” It is also truly noble because,

“I entrust you with the propagation of Buddhism in your province. It is stated that ‘the seeds of Buddhahood sprout as a result of the conditions, and for this reason they preach the single vehicle.’ ” (“The Properties of Rice,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, p. 1117) In his letter “The Properties of