I invite you to learn about and explore the teachings of Nichiren Daishonin (1222-1282), the founder of the Nichiren School of Mahayana Buddhism. Evolving from the T'ien T'ai (Chi-e the Great) school from China, Nichiren Buddhism holds that the Lotus Sutra, Shakyamuni Buddha's final and only complete (perfectly round) teaching, was the highest teaching to come out of India.
...(more)Nichiren realized that the title, “Saddharma Pundarika Sutrum”, for each of the 28 chapters of the Lotus Sutra, translated by the great Kumarajiva of China from Sanskrit to Chinese, and rendered as “Myoho Renge Kyo”, in essence, contained the meaning of the entirety of every one of the thousands of characters that comprise the Lotus Sutra.
On April 28, 1253, Nichiren first declared “Nam myoho renge kyo”, adding the character “Nam”, meaning devotion (kimyo - Jpn.) from the Sanskrit word “Namas”; which also indicates “to fuse with”, or become one with (something). Thus, by chanting (repeatedly saying) the phrase ”Nam myoho renge kyo”, one establishes (opens and reveals) and expands (revives) the bond between one's individual life (microcosm) and the life of the universe (macrocosm); both equally being Buddha.
The critically important teaching in Nichiren Buddhism is that YOU ARE ALREADY A BUDDHA. We are inherently endowed with Buddha Nature. When the word “attain” in used in the context of this pod and Nichiren Buddhism, we need to read it as “awaken to”. The fact of our being a Buddha is absolute! The ONLY factor that creates differences among all people is whether or not one has become AWAKENED to this fact. We do not 'become' or 'try to become' a Buddha! You yourself, just as you are, are right now a Buddha!!
The reality of our entire personal world is dependent on this realization. It is written that there are not two worlds in and of themselves - pure and impure - the difference lies solely in the minds of the people. The same is true in the case of a Buddha and a common mortal. When awakened one is called a Buddha; while deluded one is called a common mortal.
This pod is intended and designed to answer questions about this Buddhist philosophy and practice; and open a dialogue on life with all Gaia community members from diverse philosophical orientations and backgrounds. It is not necessary to know anything specifically about Buddhism to participate in discussions. I would, however, suggest reading the materials at the link provided below as a first step to creating a broader base for our dialogues.
Sharing the commonalities and differences from other philosophical orientaions, as well as personal views, will provide, I hope, many lively and enjoyable interactions. So, with my deepest respect and appreciation………….I offer you the writings of Nichiren Daishonin!:
Please copy the URL below to your browser and see what you find!!
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