Nichiren Buddhism, a school of Mahayana Buddhism founded by the 13th-century Japanese monk Nichiren Daishonin, places great emphasis on the power of prayer as a means of self-transformation and enlightenment. Unlike prayer in many religious traditions, which often involves asking for divine intervention, prayer in Nichiren Buddhism is an active practice rooted in personal determination, self-reflection, and action.

Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo: The Essence of Prayer

At the core of Nichiren Buddhist prayer is the chanting of “Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo,” a phrase that encapsulates the essence of the Lotus Sutra. This chant is not merely a recitation but a profound expression of devotion and a vow to embody the teachings of the Buddha in everyday life. “Nam” signifies dedication, “Myoho” represents the mystic law of the universe, “Renge” symbolizes the simultaneity of cause and effect (like a lotus flower blooming amidst the mud), and “Kyo” denotes the eternal truth of the Buddha’s teachings.

The Cycle of Transformation

Prayer in Nichiren Buddhism is a cyclical process that fosters both inner and outer transformation.

It consists of key elements:

1. Vow and Devotion– Making a conscious commitment to live with wisdom and compassion, aligning one’s actions with the principles of the Lotus Sutra.
2. Self-Reflection and Determination– Using prayer as a tool for introspection, recognizing personal challenges, and renewing one’s resolve to overcome obstacles.
3. Effort and Action– Prayer is not passive; it requires dedicated effort and concrete actions to manifest positive change.
4. Human Revolution and Transformation– As individuals engage in prayer with sincerity, they undergo a process of inner growth, ultimately transforming their environment and contributing to the well-being of others.

The Practical Impact of Prayer

Nichiren Buddhism teaches that prayer has tangible effects, not because of supernatural intervention, but because it strengthens one’s determination, aligns thoughts with actions, and creates causes that lead to beneficial outcomes. It instills confidence, resilience, and clarity, enabling practitioners to face challenges with courage and wisdom.

Moreover, the concept of “oneness of self and environment” (esho funi) in Nichiren Buddhism suggests that by transforming oneself, one also transforms the surrounding world. This means that personal prayers and inner changes have a ripple effect, influencing society and creating a more harmonious world.

Conclusion

Prayer in Nichiren Buddhism is a powerful means of self-empowerment and spiritual awakening. It is not a plea for external salvation but a dynamic process of self-discovery, commitment, and action. Through chanting Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo with unwavering faith and determination, practitioners cultivate inner strength, transform adversity into opportunity, and contribute to a more compassionate and enlightened world.

The Ten Worlds are not physical locations but states of life that coexist within each individual. They fluctuate based on one’s internal mindset and external circumstances, emphasizing the fluidity of human experience. Let’s delve into each world:

1. Hell
   The world of Hell is characterized by intense suffering, despair, and hopelessness. In this state, individuals feel consumed by their pain, believing there is no escape from their misery. Hell is marked by a sense of powerlessness and can result in destructive behavior toward oneself or others.
2. Hunger
   Hunger represents an insatiable craving or longing, driven by desire and greed. Those in this state constantly seek satisfaction from external sources, whether material possessions, status, or relationships, yet remain perpetually unfulfilled. This condition creates a cycle of dissatisfaction and yearning.
3. Anger
   Anger is a life state driven by competitiveness, jealousy, and a desire to dominate others. Individuals in this state are often consumed by their ego, reacting aggressively to perceived slights or challenges. While it can manifest as ambition or determination, anger lacks the compassion necessary for lasting harmony.
4. Animality
   The world of Animality reflects instinct-driven behavior, focusing on survival and immediate gratification. In this state, individuals may act without consideration for others, guided by fear or opportunism. Relationships are often transactional, based on power dynamics rather than mutual respect.
5. Rapture
   Rapture, also referred to as Heaven, is a state of temporary happiness or joy resulting from the fulfillment of desires. While uplifting, this state is fleeting and dependent on external circumstances. A shift in fortune can quickly dissolve the sense of euphoria, leading to instability.
6. Tranquil
   Tranquil, also known as Humanity, is a calm and balanced state where individuals can reason and coexist peacefully with others. It represents the foundation for higher life states, yet it is inherently unstable. Without effort, one can easily fall into lower worlds such as Anger or Hunger.
7. Learning
   In the world of Learning, individuals seek self-improvement and enlightenment through studying the teachings of others. They cultivate awareness and gain knowledge to better understand themselves and the world around them. However, if not paired with action, this state can remain intellectual rather than transformative.
8. Realization
   Realization involves gaining profound insight into the nature of life through personal observation and experience. It reflects a deeper understanding of interdependence and impermanence. However, like Learning, it can become self-centered if not accompanied by compassion for others.
9. Bodhisattva
   The Bodhisattva world is marked by altruism and a commitment to the happiness of others. Individuals in this state prioritize helping others achieve enlightenment, often placing their own needs secondary. This state embodies compassion and a sense of interconnectedness with all life.
10. Buddhahood
    Buddhahood is the ultimate state of enlightenment, characterized by boundless wisdom, compassion, and inner peace. In this state, individuals are unaffected by external circumstances, experiencing a profound joy that transcends suffering. It represents the realization of one’s inherent dignity and the interconnectedness of all life.

Mutual Possession of the Ten Worlds

A key teaching in Nichiren Buddhism is the principle of “mutual possession of the Ten Worlds.” This means that each world contains aspects of the other nine. For example, even in the depths of Hell, the potential for Buddhahood exists, and within Buddhahood, there remains an awareness of the struggles experienced in lower states.

This interconnectedness underscores the transformative potential within every individual. It teaches that no one is permanently bound to a particular life state and that enlightenment is always within reach.

Practical Application in Daily Life

The Ten Worlds are not merely philosophical concepts but practical tools for self-awareness and growth. They help individuals recognize their current state of life and provide insight into how to elevate it. For example, understanding that one is in the state of Anger or Hunger can inspire reflection and action to cultivate higher states such as Tranquil or Bodhisattva.

Through the practice of chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, practitioners can activate their inherent Buddha nature, transforming lower life states into positive and empowering ones. This practice enables individuals to navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and compassion, fostering both personal and societal harmony.

Relevance in Modern Times

In a fast-paced and complex world, the Ten Worlds offer a valuable framework for understanding human behavior and relationships. They encourage self-reflection, resilience, and empathy, reminding individuals that their state of life significantly impacts their environment. By striving toward Buddhahood, practitioners not only elevate their own lives but also contribute to the happiness and well-being of others.

Conclusion

The Ten Worlds in Nichiren Buddhism present a powerful model for understanding the human condition and the potential for transformation. By recognizing and addressing the life states within oneself, individuals can cultivate wisdom, compassion, and unshakable happiness. This teaching serves as a timeless reminder that enlightenment is not a distant ideal but a reality accessible to everyone through faith, practice, and study.

Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism emphasizes the transformative power of individual faith and practice to overcome life’s challenges and obstacles. One central concept is the concept of “Three Obstacles and Four Devils,” which represents the internal and external forces that hinder practitioners from advancing on the path to enlightenment.

This teaching highlights the struggles inherent in spiritual practice and provides guidance on how to confront and overcome them.

Origins and Context

The concept of the Three Obstacles and Four Devils (also known as ‘sansho shima’ in Japanese) originates from the teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha and later elucidated in the writings of T’ien-t’ai and other Buddhist scholars. Nichiren Daishonin incorporated and expanded on this concept to address the realities faced by his followers in striving for enlightenment through the practice of chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. He emphasized that encountering these obstacles is inevitable when one commits to a path of profound spiritual transformation.

 

 

The Three Obstacles

The “Three Obstacles” refer to three types of challenges that impede spiritual progress:

1. Obstacles of Earthly Desires (Bonno-sho): These arise from delusions, attachments, and desires that distract practitioners from their spiritual goals. For example, greed, anger, and ignorance can lead to behaviors that cloud judgment and impede personal growth.
2. Obstacles of Karma (Gosho-sho): These are the results of past actions (karma) that manifest as misfortune or adversity. For instance, illness, financial difficulties, or strained relationships may surface, challenging one’s resolve.
3. Obstacles of Retribution (Ho-sho): These obstacles occur when external forces, such as societal pressures or persecution, attempt to derail spiritual practice. In Nichiren’s time, this could include criticism or hostility faced by those who practiced the Lotus Sutra.

The Four Devils

The “Four Devils” are more nuanced, representing psychological and spiritual impediments:

1. Devil of the Five Components (Bonno-ma): This refers to the distractions and disturbances caused by one’s physical and mental faculties, such as the body, perception, and consciousness. These can manifest as self-doubt or complacency.
2. Devil of Earthly Desires (Go-ma): This devil exploits worldly attachments to create conflict and suffering. It represents the temptation to abandon spiritual practice in pursuit of fleeting pleasures.
3. Devil of Death (Shinga-ma): This is the fear of death or loss that undermines courage and determination. For instance, encountering illness or other existential threats might deter practitioners from maintaining faith.
4. Devil of the Sixth Heaven (Tenji-ma): This devil represents the most insidious form of hindrance, often referred to as the “Devil King of the Sixth Heaven.” It embodies forces of arrogance, greed, and manipulation that seek to dominate and control others, steering them away from the path of enlightenment. The Devil King works by exploiting human vulnerabilities, such as ego and self-centered desires, to create division, disrupt harmony, and hinder spiritual progress. In Nichiren Daishonin’s teachings, this devil symbolizes the pervasive forces in society that promote materialism, selfish ambition, and power struggles. It manifests not only as internal tendencies but also as external pressures, such as oppressive systems or influential individuals who discourage genuine spiritual growth. Overcoming this devil requires unwavering faith, humility, and a commitment to fostering compassion and altruism through one’s practice of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo.

Overcoming Obstacles and Devils

Nichiren Daishonin taught that encountering the Three Obstacles and Four Devils is not a sign of failure but rather evidence of progress. He famously stated, “If you advance, there will be three obstacles and four devils. If you retreat, there will be no such obstacles or devils.” This means that these challenges arise precisely because the practitioner is moving closer to enlightenment.

The key to overcoming these obstacles lies in unwavering faith and persistent practice. Chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyoserves as both a shield against negativity and a source of inner strength. By tapping into the limitless potential of the Buddha nature within, practitioners can transform even the most formidable challenges into opportunities for growth.

Relevance in Modern Life

In contemporary times, the Three Obstacles and Four Devils can be understood as the struggles faced in daily life, such as stress, self-doubt, societal expectations, and the temptation to abandon meaningful pursuits. Nichiren Buddhism teaches that these challenges are not to be feared but embraced as opportunities to deepen faith and cultivate resilience.

Through the practice of chanting and study, individuals learn to view obstacles not as insurmountable barriers but as catalysts for personal and spiritual transformation. This perspective empowers practitioners to navigate life’s difficulties with courage, wisdom, and compassion.

Conclusion

The concept of the Three Obstacles and Four Devils in Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism is a profound reminder that challenges are inherent in the journey toward enlightenment. By confronting and overcoming these obstacles through faith, practice, and study, practitioners can unlock their inner potential and lead lives of unshakable happiness. In this way, the teachings of Nichiren Daishonin offer timeless guidance for overcoming adversity and achieving lasting peace and fulfilment.

 

Around 1277, Nichiren Daishonin wrote a letter to one of his followers, Shijo Kingo, who was upset with his lord when his lord, threatened to move Shijo Kingo and his family to a distant province.

In a writing titled “The Eight Winds,” he encouraged his disciple Shijo Kingo  not to succumb to eight influences that obstruct our Buddhist practice, called “the eight winds”.  More often than not, we get swayed by external circumstances and get  trapped in the web of these “eight influences”

The eight winds consist of four favourable and four adverse winds. This concept teaches that both favourable and adverse conditions can sway us from advancing in faith.

The first four, which people generally tend to favour and seek, are:

1) Prosperity: prospering through gain or advantage

2) Honour: receiving honour or accolades by the public

3) Praise: being praised or admired by those around us

4) Pleasure: enjoying physical and spiritual gratification

The remaining four, which people tend to avoid and detest, are:

5) Decline: suffering loss of various kinds and disadvantage

6) Disgrace: being dishonoured and humiliated by the public

7) Censure: being criticised or disparaged by those around us

8) Suffering: experiencing physical or mental suffering

 

While people naturally welcome the four favourable winds, they represent only temporary forms of happiness that could disappear with changing circumstances. Becoming overly attached to them will ultimately bring about as much suffering as the adverse winds. In addition, people tend to want to avoid the four adverse winds because they can easily make us feel defeated.

Nichiren writes:

“Worthy [wise] persons deserve to be called so because they are not carried away by the eight winds: prosperity, decline, disgrace, honour, praise, censure, suffering, and pleasure. They are neither elated by prosperity nor grieved by decline. The heavenly gods will surely protect one who is unbending before the eight winds”

(“The Eight Winds,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, p. 794).

In life, it is easy to be swept up into our immediate, short-term considerations of gain or loss. And we often get caught up in public opinion or what those around us may think of us or our decisions. But if we allow our thoughts and actions to be controlled by what others think or focus only on the superficial, we lose sight of what really matters. We have to remember that the most important point is to never be defeated by anything and to always advance in our inner transformation based on Nichiren’s teachings.

Shijo Kingo was a sincere disciple of strong faith, who at the time of this letter was facing great adversity that threatened his livelihood as a samurai. His efforts to introduce his lord, Ema Mitsutoki, to the teachings of Nichiren had created a rift between him and Lord Ema. And his fellow samurai retainers used this rift as an opportunity to falsely discredit and malign him. Kingo was so angered by this injustice and unfair treatment that he considered retaliating by taking legal action against his lord.

The Daishonin, however, recognized the true nature of his disciple’s persecution. His envious colleagues had roused Kingo’s indignant self-righteousness.

Reminding Kingo of the debt of gratitude he owed his lord for protecting him in previous years, Nichiren advised him against making rash decisions. He assures Kingo that as long as he is not “carried away by the eight winds” and remains “unbending before the eight winds,” the heavenly gods will protect him and he will emerge victorious.

As for Shijo Kingo, by following his mentor’s guidance and defeating his own tendency toward anger, he regained his lord’s trust and, as a demonstration of this trust, was given three times more land than he had previously owned.

SGI President Ikeda writes: “Just as Shijo Kingo was encouraged to do by the Daishonin, each of us needs to become a wise person who wins the trust of others in our community and society. That is the practical means for making worldwide kosen-rufu a reality. The key lies with one person—with the individual” (September 2014 Living Buddhism, p. 32).

Through a consistent practice of chanting Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo and uniting in spirit with our mentor and fellow members, let us each carry out our own human revolution, establishing lives of unshakable happiness that is impervious to the eight winds, while helping others do the same.

President Ikeda’s Guidance:

The wise are those who remain unswayed by the eight winds—those who pursue absolute happiness with an unwavering spirit. This is the epitome of a genuine practitioner of Nichiren Buddhism.

A wise person is one who has the capacity to distinguish between right and wrong, a person with the ability to grasp the essence of the matter.

Indispensable to building a solid self that remains unshaken by the eight winds are the correct teaching and the correct teacher that guide us to distinguish between right and wrong, and explain the causes of happiness and misfortune.

The way of the wise is to practice in exact accord with the correct teaching and follow the guidance of the correct teacher. The Daishonin assures us that, by steadfastly walking that path and always leading a life based on the Mystic Law, we are certain to receive the protection of the heavenly deities. In contrast, those who turn their backs on reason or wisdom will not receive such protection. Buddhism is a realm of reason grounded in the ultimate Law of life (see “The Eight Winds,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, p. 794). (September 2014 Living Buddhism, pp. 26–27) WT

Adapted from article in World Tribune https://www.worldtribune.org/2019/01/the-eight-winds/

Nichiren Buddhism teaches that the power of prayer and practice is not merely an act of faith but a dynamic force that brings about transformation. Central to this philosophy are the Four Powers, which are essential in manifesting one’s desires and overcoming obstacles. These powers—the Power of Faith, the Power of Practice, the Power of the Buddha, and the Power of the Law—work in harmony to create a profound and lasting impact on an individual’s life.

 

1. The Power of Faith

Faith is the foundational element in Nichiren Buddhism. It is not blind belief but a deep conviction in the boundless potential within oneself and the transformative power of chanting Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo. This faith provides the motivation to persevere despite hardships and is the catalyst for unlocking one’s inner Buddha nature. By believing in the power of the Mystic Law, practitioners develop resilience and the ability to overcome adversity.2.

2. The Power of Practice

Faith alone is not enough; it must be accompanied by consistent practice. The Power of Practice involves daily chanting (Daimoku), reciting the Lotus Sutra, and engaging in activities that spread the teachings of Nichiren Buddhism. Through dedicated practice, individuals cultivate wisdom, strengthen their resolve, and align their actions with their aspirations. This power ensures that faith is not passive but an active and transformative force in life.

3. The Power of the Buddha

The Power of the Buddha refers to the compassionate and protective influence of the Buddha’s enlightened state. In Nichiren Buddhism, it is believed that the original Buddha, embodied in the teachings of the Lotus Sutra, is ever-present and accessible to all who chant Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo. By tapping into this power, practitioners receive guidance, encouragement, and the strength to face challenges with courage.

4. The Power of the Law

The Power of the Law signifies the universal principles of cause and effect that govern all life. Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyoembodies this Mystic Law, and by aligning oneself with it, practitioners can bring about positive change. This power assures that sincere efforts and prayers will yield results, as they are in harmony with the fundamental nature of the universe.

Even though the boundless powers of the Buddha and the Law are embodied in the Gohonzon, they will not set to work to benefit us of their own accord. Rather, these powers of the Buddha and the Law are manifested through our own powers of faith and practice.

To the extent that one brings forth one’s powers of faith and practice, one can manifest the powers of the Buddha and the Law within one’s own life.

On The Power of Four, excerpt from Toda Josei Zenshu (collected writings of Josei Toda; Tokyo; Seikyo Shimbunsha, 1989, vol. 4, p.42 )

“The power of the Buddha and the power of the Law increase in proportion to the strength of the power of faith and the power of practice. Therefore, bringing forth the powers of the Buddha and the Mystic Law in your life depends on the powers of your own faith and practice. The latter merge to become the powers of the Buddha and the Law, resulting in benefits that seem miraculous, defying comprehension”

The Interconnection of the Four Powers

These four powers do not operate in isolation but are deeply interconnected. Faith fuels practice, practice deepens faith, the power of the Buddha supports both, and the power of the Law ensures that sincere efforts lead to transformation. Together, they create a virtuous cycle that empowers individuals to achieve their goals, overcome difficulties, and attain enlightenment.

 Conclusion

The Four Powers in Nichiren Buddhism offer a practical framework for self-transformation and achieving one’s aspirations. By cultivating faith, maintaining consistent practice, seeking guidance from the Buddha’s teachings, and aligning with the Mystic Law, individuals can navigate life’s challenges with confidence and wisdom. This dynamic approach to prayer and practice fosters not only personal growth but also contributes to a more harmonious and compassionate world.

 

“Consciousness,” in the Buddhist context, is a translation of vijnana, a Sanskrit word meaning “perception.” It refers not only to waking awareness but also to internal capacities and energies that direct our lives.

The first five levels of consciousness correspond to our five sensory organs—eyes, ears, nose, tongue and skin.

They are: 1) sight- consciousness, 2) hearing-consciousness, 3) smell-consciousness, 4) taste-consciousness and 5) touch-consciousness.

These gather and perceive information about the world and pass it to the sixth consciousness, the ‘mind-consciousness’, which integrates the information into coherent images, assesses it and forms responses. Suppose someone is yelling at you. You perceive this information through your five senses, and your sixth consciousness interprets it, con- cludes the person is angry and considers and initiates a response.

The sixth consciousness is always at work in support of our day-to-day activities.

Memory, imagination and dreams also take place on this level, so the mind-consciousness can be at work even without immediate input from the five senses.

These first six levels are strongly influenced by deeper levels of consciousness. Impulses arising from the seventh and eighth levels of consciousness affect the way the five senses perceive information and how the mind interprets it. Emotions, deep-seated attitudes and self-attachment can change or skew our perception. By purifying the first six levels of consciousness, we are able to perceive all things in their true light. This is why Nichiren describes “purification of the six sense organs” as an important benefit of Buddhist practice.

Unlike the first six levels, the seventh,‘manas– consciousness’, does not depend directly on the external world. It is the internal, spiritual, intuitive realm of life where self-attachment and the ability to distinguish oneself from others, capacities necessary for survival, reside. This subconscious drive to differentiate self from others, however, if too strong, gives rise to arrogance, insecurity, conflict and misery. So while the sixth consciousness enables you to decide that your friend is angry, the seventh determines how that makes you feel and how it affects your sense of identity. If that sense is unbalanced, this might lead you to act in a way that compounds the problem. The seventh level also includes one’s sense of right and wrong, which if healthy can overpower the impulse to act selfishly or rashly.

The eighth level is the alaya-consciousness— the Sanskrit word alaya meaning “storehouse.” It is the “karmic storehouse” where latent causes and effects resulting from all one’s thoughts, words and deeds throughout time reside. Your reaction to your friend’s anger will be influenced by all your past causes and effects. The first seven levels of consciousness cease upon death, but the eighth persists eternally, carrying with it the distinct nature of one’s being throughout the cycle of birth and death.

SGI President Ikeda states: “The term storehouse conjures the image of an actual structure into which things of substance can be placed. But in fact it may be more accurate to say that the life current of kar- mic energy itself constitutes the eighth consciousness . . . Moreover, the eighth consciousness transcends the boundaries of the individual and interacts with the karmic energy of others. On the inner dimension of life, this latent karmic energy merges with the latent energy of one’s family, one’s ethnic group and humankind, and also with that of animals and plants” (The Wisdom of the Lotus Sutra, vol. 4, pp. 262–63).

This is why one person’s inner transformation, or “human revolution,” can change the destiny of a family, society and even of all humankind.

The traditional Buddhist view holds that changing negative karma for the better involves countering every past bad cause with a good cause. This process was thought to take countless lifetimes and require that no new bad causes be made—unlikely in a world filled with impure and negative influences.

In contrast, Nichiren taught that we can fundamentally transform our karma and create supreme value and happiness in this life by tapping into an even deeper, more powerful level of consciousness. This is the ninth consciousness, also called the ‘amala– consciousnes’—the Sanskrit word amala meaning “pure” or “stainless.” It is the “fundamental pure consciousness” existing at a depth of life free from all karmic impurity and is synonymous with the world of Buddhahood.

President Ikeda explains, “Just as the light of the stars and the moon seems to vanish when the sun rises, when we bring forth the state of Buddhahood in our lives we cease to suffer negative effects for each individual past offense committed” (August 2003 Living Bud- dhism, p. 47).

When we tap into our amala-consciousness by chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, we can positively transform our karmic tendencies and reactions, and create value from every situation—even being yelled at by a friend. For instance, instead of taking offense, we can see the situation more clearly, perhaps even appreciating that person’s anger as a sign of concern.

Nichiren identifies the ninth consciousness as Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, which he embodied in the form of the Gohonzon. He teaches, “You should base your mind on the ninth consciousness, and carry out your practice in the six consciousnesses” (“Hell Is the Land of Tranquil Light,” The Writing of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, p. 458). This means that those who practice Nichiren Buddhism reveal the qualities of a Buddha (the ninth consciousness) in their everyday behavior (the first six levels of consciousness).

Nichiren also states: “Never seek this Gohonzon outside yourself. The Gohon- zon exists only within the mortal flesh of us ordinary people who embrace the Lotus Sutra and chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. The body is the palace of the ninth consciousness, the unchanging reality that reigns over all of life’s functions” (“The Real Aspect of the Gohonzon,” WND-1, 832). Chanting Nam- myoho-renge-kyo to the Gohonzon with faith in our innate Buddha nature enables us to access this “palace of the ninth conscious- ness,” causing all other levels of consciousness to glow with the compassion, wisdom and courage of Buddhahood.

Source:http://www.sgi-usa.org/memberresources/study/2018_essentials_part3/docs/eng

The Treasures of the Heart are the Most Valuable of All

 

“Fortune comes from one’s mind (heart) and makes one worthy of respect.”  [“Mind” or ‘Heart’ here refers to the “mind of faith”]

This is the probably one of the most important and profound teachings of Nichiren Daishonin

In a letter written to his most trusted disciple Shijo Kingo, at a time when Shijo Kingo was in the midst of a tough struggle against mistreatement by the lord of his clan and his colleagues, Nichiren Daishonin cautions and instructs him to stay on the best course of behavior. Shijo Kingo was facing dire circumstances, where he had lost his income and was on the verge of losing his land. He had also lost the trust of his lord and his reputation amongst colleagues.

Daishonin urged him to remain steadfast in preserving the “Treasure of the Heart”, reminding him that ultimately it is the Treasure of the Heart that will win.

Let’s try to understand what each of these treasures are and why is the ‘Treasure of Heart’ so important.

We value many things in life, particularly those which enhance the quality of our lives. According to Nichiren Daishonin, “life’s treasures” can be bundled into three main categories: (i) the Treasures of the Storehouse (ii) the Treasures of the Body (iii) the Treasures of the Heart.

“Treasures of the storehouse” are material treasures – money / financial wealth; assets like land, buildings, and jewelry.

“Treasures of the body” mean attributes one possesses as a person. i.e. things like physical health, educational background, personality, knowledge, skills, and talents, position at work and social standing etc.

Though “treasures of the body” are generally considered to be on a higher level than “treasures of the storehouse”, people usually desire fulfillment in both these respects and feel happy when these desires are satisfied. And many of us spend our whole lifetime trying to obtain such treasures. And why not! Isn’t it better to have enough treasures of the storehouse and body than to have none or too little. However, when we go in pursuit of the treasures of storehouse and body and ignore to cultivate the treasures of our heart, we drift away from enlightenment. One must remember that the treasures of storehouse and body are transient and without exception, will make us fall into the three evil paths (greed, anger, and delusion) and make us wander from one condition to another. On the other hand, “the treasures of the heart” are permanent and stay with us across several eons.

“More valuable than treasures in a storehouse are treasures of the body, and the treasures of the heart are the most valuable of all. Strive to accumulate the treasures of the heart!” (The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1 p. 1170)

How do we expand and accumulate “the treasures of the heart”?

Regularly doing Gongyo and chanting Daimoku with a mind and heart filled with belief in the Gohonzon is the way to accumulate the treasures of the heart and this is the way to go.

We should be aware that we can attain Buddhahood in our present form through this practice of chanting nam-myoho-renge-kyo, with a resolve (ichinen) of faith and belief in the Gohonzon and aligning one’s life with the universe. This is what makes our “mind of faith” expand and leads to accumulation of “the Treasures of the Heart”.

Nichiren Daishonin’s letter, “A Ship to Cross the Sea of Suffering,” offers profound insights into overcoming life’s inherent challenges through unwavering faith in the Lotus Sutra. Written in 1261 to his disciple Shiiji Shirō, this letter emphasizes that embracing the daimoku—chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo—serves as a vessel transporting individuals across the tumultuous sea of birth and death toward enlightenment.

Embracing Hardships as Catalysts for Growth

Nichiren asserts that encountering obstacles is intrinsic to the journey of a votary of the Lotus Sutra, especially in the Latter Day of the Law. He encourages practitioners to perceive adversities not as deterrents but as opportunities to strengthen faith. Drawing an analogy, he notes, “Doesn’t a fire burn more briskly when logs are added?” This perspective transforms hardships into fuel that intensifies one’s spiritual resolve.

The Daimoku as the Navigational Vessel

Central to Nichiren’s teaching is the concept that chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is the “ship” that enables one to traverse the sea of suffering. He states, “Only the ship of Myoho-renge-kyo enables one to cross the sea of the sufferings of birth and death.” Nichiren further explains that even hearing a single phrase of the Lotus Sutra and cherishing it deep in one’s heart can serve as a guide to enlightenment. Citing the Great Teacher Miao-lo, he writes, “Even a single phrase cherished deep in one’s heart will without fail help one reach the opposite shore. To ponder one phrase and practice it is to exercise navigation.” The single phrase Nam-myoho-renge-kyo contains the essence of all the Buddha’s teachings, allowing individuals to reveal their inherent Buddha nature and transform the sufferings of life into profound joy.

This practice awakens the inherent Buddha nature within, guiding practitioners toward the “distant shore” of enlightenment.

The Role of the Votary in the Latter Day

Nichiren emphasizes the emergence of the votary of the Lotus Sutra in the Latter Day of the Law, highlighting that the greater the hardships faced, the greater the delight due to strong faith. This reflects the principle that enduring and overcoming challenges is integral to the path of enlightenment.

Transforming Suffering into Joy

The letter underscores the transformative power of faith, where suffering becomes a means to attain joy and enlightenment. By steadfastly embracing the Lotus Sutra amidst adversities, practitioners can navigate life’s sufferings and reach a state of unshakable happiness. Nichiren’s teachings remind us that the troubles and worries of life are inescapable, yet they hold the potential for transformation when approached with faith.

Conclusion

Nichiren Daishonin’s “A Ship to Cross the Sea of Suffering” serves as a timeless guide, illustrating that through unwavering faith in the daimoku, one can transcend life’s inherent sufferings and attain enlightenment. The single phrase Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, as the “seed of Buddhahood,” enables individuals to manifest the four noble virtues of eternity, happiness, true self, and purity. This teaching continues to inspire practitioners to view challenges as opportunities for profound personal growth and spiritual development.

For a deeper understanding, you may refer to the full text of the letter available at the Nichiren Buddhism Library (nichirenlibrary.org) or explore Ikeda Sensei’s guidance on the topic.

In our practice, we often refer to the phrase –  “Changing Poison into Medicine”.

What is Poison? ‘Anything that harms or destroys’

And medicine is ‘Something that treats or prevents or alleviates a disease’

In Buddhism, the three poisons are Greed, Anger and Foolishness. They are fundamental evils inherent in our lives, which give rise to human suffering.

Buddhism teaches us that suffering derives from karma, the causes that we ourselves have created. The Buddhist teaching of karma is one of personal responsibility. And the strong belief is that even the most deeply entrenched karmic patterns can be transformed.

Any unfavourable situation can be changed into a source of value, by challenging and overcoming that circumstance. And thus grow as human beings.

We need to take PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY – To transform sufferings or obstacles into value-creating experiences

The process of changing poison into medicine begins when we approach difficult experiences as an opportunity to reflect on ourselves and to strengthen and develop our courage & compassion

The more we are able to do this the more we grow in our vitality and wisdom => Expansive life state

 SUFFERING can thus serve as a SPRINGBOARD for deeper experience of HAPPINESS

Daishonin’s Philosophy declares that Infinite Potential of Buddhahood exists within every person and every moment and leads us on to the path to bring forth that potential.

By Chanting Nam Myoho Renge Kyo we manifest our Buddhahood and in times of hardships and difficulties instead of basing our actions on the three poisons or karmic tendencies, we base it on our Buddha Nature that comprises of Wisdom, Courage and Compassion and thus continue joyfully on the path of human revolution.

If in times of hardship we are defeated by suffering or respond to challenging circumstances with actions arising from our fundamental darkness the original poison shall never be transformed and remains a poison.

The battle we must ultimately win, is that between our Buddha Nature and our Fundamental Darkness.
Buddhism teaches that self-knowledge ultimately is awareness of our own infinite potential, and our capacity for inner strength, wisdom and compassion.

To summarise – How we respond to life’s inevitable sufferings is the key even if we face the most difficult problems or obstacles in our lives

In its most fundamental sense, “changing poison into medicine” refers to the transformation of ‘Deluded impulses’ into ‘Enlightenment’