Faith in Nichiren Buddhism—Guidance on Happiness, Health, Wealth, and Harmonious Relationships

By The Living Buddha

Faith in Nichiren Buddhism—Guidance on Happiness, Health, Wealth, and Harmonious Relationships

Discover the secrets of Nichiren Buddhism and how it can transform your life with this updated guide to Faith in Nichiren Buddhism - Guidance on Happiness, Health, Wealth, and Harmonious Relationships. This book will empower you to take control of your life and become a happier, healthier and more fulfilled person.

Benefits of reading this book:

 

- Learn the power of Nichiren Buddhism to bring positive changes to your life

- Harness the spiritual and material blessings of the Lotus Sutra to make your life more meaningful

- Find joy and contentment through practising Nichiren Buddhism and chanting Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo

 

What's included in the book:

 

- Step-by-step guidance on how to practice Nichiren Buddhism

- Strategies for overcoming illness, relationships and achieving happiness

- Advice on how to incorporate Nichiren Buddhism into your daily life.

 

 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Buddha Publishing
• Release date: Sep 16, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223279884

Book preview

Faith in Nichiren Buddhism

Guidance on Happiness, Health, Wealth, and Harmonious Relationships

The Living Buddha

Nichiren-Buddhism

Copyright © 2022 Nichiren-Buddhism

All rights reserved.

This book is licensed for your personal use only and may not be sold or given away.

For information about permission, to reproduce selections from this book, write to Nichiren-Buddhism

Published by Nichiren-Buddhism

No part of this book may be reproduced by any mechanical, photographic, or electronic process, or in the form of a phonographic recording; nor may it be stored in a retrieval system, transmitted, or otherwise be copied for public or private use other than for fair use as brief quotations embodied in articles and reviews without prior written permission of the publisher.

Contents

Acknowledgment

1.The History of Buddhism

2.The Origins of Buddhism

3.The World of Nichiren Buddhism

4.The Life of Nichiren Daishonin

5.Introduction to Nichiren Buddhism

6.What is Nichiren Buddhism

7.What is Myoho-Renge-Kyo

8.Nam-myoho-renge-kyo

9.The Title of the Lotus Sutra

10.The Power of Chanting Nam Myoho Renge Kyo

11.The Practice of Prayer in Nichiren Buddhism

12.The Limitless Potential of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo

13.The Language of Gongyo and Daimoku

14.Unlocking the Power of Chanting

15.Why Aren't My Prayers Getting Answered?

16.Finding Fulfillment Within

17.Profound Realization of 'Myo' and 'Ho'

18.The Transformative Power of Faith and Prayer

19. Chanting Can Benefit Our Entire Family

20.The Complexity of Changing Someone Else's Karma

21.Transforming Misfortune into Great Good Fortune

22.Changing Problems into Springboards for Growth

23.The Significance of Faith in Every Situation

24.The Power of Words: The Essence of the Lotus Sutra in Nam-myoho-renge-kyo

25.How 'Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo' Differs from Chanting Other Words?

26.The Use of Bells in Nichiren Buddhism's Gongyo Practice

27.The Prime Point of Faith: Daimoku First

28.The Role of Faith and Effort in Achieving Happiness

29.A Powerful Tool for Achieving Your Deepest Desires

30.Transforming Our Attitude in Faith for Positive Change

31.The Unwavering Faith of Nichiren Daishonin

32.Prayer is the Key

33.The Eternity of Life

34.The Eight Winds

35.Changing Your Destiny

36.Living True Buddhism

37.The Seed of Buddhahood

38.Essentials of Individual Guidance

39.The Great Blessing of the Gohonzon

40.Helping Others with Individual Guidance

41.The Role of Leaders

42.Treasuring Each Individual

43.One’s Way of Living

44.Understanding the True Benefits of Faith

45.A Mother's Journey from Blame to Apology: A Lesson in Parenting

46.Achieving a Work-Life-Buddhism Balance

47.Overcoming Grief: A Family's Journey to Kosen-rufu

48.Being a Representative of Nichiren Buddhism

49.From Busy to Balanced: Buddhism into Your Daily Life

50.How Problems Help us Grow

51.Financial Problems as Opportunities

52.The Gohonzon: The Only Reliable Support in Life

53.A Story of Triumph Over Adversity

54.The Correct Way to Practice Faith

55.Don't Wait for the Perfect Time

56.The Warning Signs of Faith

57.Inspiring Inactive Members to Return

58.The Power of Home Visits

59.Building Unity in Your District

60.The Art of Giving Guidance

61.The Dangers of Complaining

62.Understanding the Causes of Suffering

63.Inconspicuous Benefits of Faith

64.Supporting Each Other

65.The Relationship Between Problems & Happiness

66.Conquering Devilish Functions

67.Deepening Faith for Effective Guidance

68.Strengthening Faith to Overcome Illness

69.Great Misfortune Followed by Great Good Fortune

70.The Dichotomy of Benefit and Loss

71.Our Lives Contain The Universe

72.Chanting Daimoku – Fueling the Engines Of Our Lives

73.Excuses and Complaining

74.Becoming Someone Your Husband Can Trust

75.Breaking Free from Negative Cycles

76.The Significance of Posture in Gongyo

77.Chanting for Personal Happiness

78.The Law of Cause and Effect

79.The Nine Consciousness in Buddhism

80.Simultaneity of Cause and Effect: Understanding the Lotus

81.Choosing a Marriage Partner

82.The Significance of Reciting Gongyo

83.The Strategy of The Lotus Sutra

84.The Three Proofs

85.Finding Happiness through Faith, Practice, and Study

86.Practice for Oneself and Others

87.The Power of Buddhist Study

88.Managing Your Karmic Bank Account

89.The Two Types of Happiness

90.Life Changing Experience

91.Using Bad Karma for Good Fortune

92.Turning Poison into Medicine

93.The Illuminating Effect of Daimoku

94.Embracing Nam-myoho-renge-kyo

95.Nichiren Daishonin's Doctrine of Changing Destiny

96.Nichiren Daishonin's Call to Kosen-rufu

97.Empowering Others: The Essence of Compassion

98.The Key to Increasing Good Fortune

99.The Relationship between Knowledge and Wisdom

100.From Basic Needs to Spiritual Fulfillment

101.The Gohonzon: A Blueprint of Inner Potential

102.Human Revolution: Path to Inner Transformation

103.Nichiren's Controversial Message

104.Living Confidently in the Present Moment

105.Activating the Inherent Buddha Qualities

106.The Oneness of Body and Mind

107.The Middle Way in Buddhism

108.The Optimistic Philosophy of Buddhism

109.The Power of Interconnectedness

110.The Heart of Buddhist Practice

111.Beyond Cause and Effect: Karma and Choice

112.Manifesting Buddhahood in Everyday Life

113.Funi: The Idea of 'Two, but Not Two'

114.From Hell to Buddhahood: Exploring the Ten Worlds

115.A Path to Buddhahood

Acknowledgment

Throughout the creation of this book, our focus has been entirely on the transcripts of Nichiren Daishonin's writings. Our aim has been to present his words in their original form to the best of our abilities. However, we would like to draw your attention to some important points to consider.

Firstly, the translations have undergone multiple revisions to enhance clarity and conciseness. While we have made every effort to preserve accuracy, it is worth noting that not all sources are primary, and we cannot guarantee the authenticity of every excerpt.

Secondly, it is essential to acknowledge that concepts and interpretations can evolve over time and vary in different contexts. We strongly encourage readers to cross-reference phrasing with primary sources when citing Nichiren Daishonin from this text and to approach interpretations with openness and generosity.

Please be aware that everything presented in this book is extracted from its original context, and interpretations may evolve over time. The original intentions behind Nichiren's words may differ from your interpretation in a different era, medium, format, or context.

While we have made sincere efforts to maintain the original intent, errors can occur as the content has transcended time, space, and different mediums. Moreover, older texts have been edited and rearranged to enhance readability. We acknowledge the contributions of Nichiren Daishonin, Dr. Daisaku Ikeda, Richard Causton, Satoru Izumi, Josei Toda, Tsunesaburo Makiguchi, and others, but any mistakes that may arise are solely our responsibility.

We sincerely appreciate your understanding and hope you derive great enjoyment from the book!

The History of Buddhism

Buddhism, one of the world's major religions, traces its origins back to ancient India in the 5th century BCE. It emerged as a spiritual path that sought to alleviate suffering and attain enlightenment. Over the centuries, Buddhism spread across Asia, adapting to various cultures and giving rise to different schools and traditions. One of these prominent schools is Nichiren Buddhism, which has gained recognition for its relevance and applicability to the modern age. This chapter delves into the history of Buddhism, its spread across the world, and the emergence of Nichiren Buddhism as a potent form of Buddhist practice.

The Birth of Buddhism

Buddhism was founded by Siddhartha Gautama, later known as the Buddha, who lived in the 5th century BCE. Born into a royal family in present-day Nepal, Siddhartha renounced his privileged life to seek enlightenment and understand the nature of suffering. After years of rigorous meditation, he achieved enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, becoming the Buddha, or the awakened one.

The Buddha spent the remainder of his life teaching the Dharma, his profound insights into the nature of reality and the path to liberation. His teachings emphasized the Four Noble Truths, which acknowledge the existence of suffering, identify its causes, propose its cessation, and provide a path, known as the Eightfold Path, to achieve liberation.

The Spread of Buddhism

Following the Buddha's death, his teachings were initially transmitted orally by his disciples. Over time, these teachings were organized into collections known as sutras, which formed the foundation of Buddhist scriptures. As Buddhism spread throughout ancient India, it also encountered various regional and cultural influences, leading to the emergence of different Buddhist schools and traditions.

During the reign of Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, Buddhism was patronized and actively propagated across the Indian subcontinent and beyond. Buddhist missionaries embarked on journeys to neighboring countries, spreading the teachings and establishing monastic communities.

Buddhism in East Asia

Buddhism found its way to East Asia, where it encountered unique cultural and philosophical contexts. In China, Buddhism underwent further development and integration with existing spiritual and philosophical systems, such as Confucianism and Daoism. This amalgamation led to the formation of distinct Chinese Buddhist schools, including Pure Land, Chan (Zen), and Tiantai.

The Emergence of Nichiren Buddhism

Nichiren Buddhism, named after the 13th-century Japanese monk Nichiren, traces its roots to the Lotus Sutra, a significant Mahayana Buddhist scripture. Nichiren's teachings emphasized the Lotus Sutra as the ultimate expression of the Buddha's enlightenment, presenting it as the quintessential teaching for the present age.

Nichiren's teachings sought to address the social and political issues of his time, promoting peace, justice, and the welfare of all beings. He believed that by reciting the mantra Nam-myoho-renge-kyo and embracing the Lotus Sutra's principles, individuals could unlock their highest potential and transform society.

Nichiren Buddhism in the Modern Age

Nichiren Buddhism's appeal lies in its relevance to the modern age. It addresses the challenges and complexities of contemporary life, offering practical tools for personal growth, social engagement, and spiritual transformation. Its core principles, such as the concept of interconnectedness and the power of inner transformation, resonate with individuals seeking meaning, purpose, and harmony in a rapidly changing world.

Nichiren Buddhism promotes the practice of chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, which is believed to awaken one's inherent Buddhahood and tap into the limitless potential within. Through this practice, individuals cultivate wisdom, compassion, and the ability to effect positive change in their lives and communities.

Furthermore, Nichiren Buddhism emphasizes the importance of faith in one's own inherent Buddha nature, asserting that every individual possesses the potential for enlightenment. This empowering belief resonates with those who seek a spiritual path that acknowledges their innate goodness and capacity for growth.

Another aspect that sets Nichiren Buddhism apart is its inclusivity. It embraces people from all walks of life, irrespective of their social status, gender, or background. Nichiren himself encouraged the active participation of laypeople in the practice, breaking down the traditional hierarchy between clergy and laity.

Nichiren Buddhism also places great emphasis on social engagement and the pursuit of peace. Nichiren believed that the teachings of the Lotus Sutra had the power to transform society by fostering compassion, respect, and understanding among individuals. This perspective aligns with the modern world's yearning for social justice, harmony, and global cooperation.

In addition, Nichiren Buddhism's focus on the present moment resonates with individuals navigating the challenges of the contemporary world. By embracing the here and now, practitioners cultivate mindfulness, resilience, and a deep appreciation for the richness of everyday experiences.

Moreover, Nichiren Buddhism emphasizes the importance of personal study and understanding of the Buddhist teachings. It encourages individuals to delve into the sutras, engage in dialogue, and seek wisdom from various sources. This approach fosters intellectual growth, critical thinking, and a well-rounded understanding of Buddhist principles.

Nichiren Buddhism has flourished in various parts of the world, with organizations and communities dedicated to its practice and propagation. Its teachings have resonated with individuals seeking a dynamic and relevant spiritual path that addresses the complexities of the modern age.

Buddhism's rich history spans over two millennia and has left an indelible impact on the spiritual, cultural, and philosophical landscape of the world. Within the tapestry of Buddhist traditions, Nichiren Buddhism stands out as a vibrant and practical path for the present age. Its emphasis on personal empowerment, social engagement, and the transformative power of the Lotus Sutra makes it particularly relevant to individuals seeking a comprehensive and accessible spiritual practice. By embracing the principles of Nichiren Buddhism, one can embark on a journey of self-discovery, compassion, and positive change, ultimately contributing to a more harmonious and enlightened world.

As Nichiren Buddhism continues to spread, its global impact grows, reaching individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures. The accessibility of its teachings, coupled with its adaptability to modern circumstances, has attracted people seeking spiritual fulfillment, inner peace, and a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

In this age characterized by rapid advancements in technology, globalization, and interconnectedness, Nichiren Buddhism offers a path that integrates ancient wisdom with contemporary challenges. Its core principles of compassion, interdependence, and the belief in the inherent dignity and potential of every individual resonate with the universal aspirations for a more harmonious and compassionate world.

The practice of Nichiren Buddhism centers around the chanting of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, which serves as a powerful tool for self-reflection, empowerment, and transformation. Through the repeated recitation of this mantra, practitioners tap into their inner wisdom, connect with the enlightened nature within themselves, and manifest positive change in their lives.

Nichiren Buddhism's focus on individual responsibility and agency aligns with the values of personal growth and self-empowerment that are prevalent in the modern world. It encourages individuals to take charge of their own happiness and well-being while also recognizing their interconnectedness with all beings and the environment.

Furthermore, the teachings of Nichiren Buddhism highlight the importance of dialogue, understanding, and respect among diverse cultures, religions, and belief systems. It encourages practitioners to engage in constructive and compassionate conversations, fostering a spirit of mutual learning and cooperation for the betterment of humanity.

In the face of complex global challenges such as environmental degradation, social inequality, and the erosion of ethical values, Nichiren Buddhism provides a comprehensive framework for addressing these issues at their root. By cultivating wisdom, compassion, and a deep sense of responsibility, practitioners are empowered to contribute positively to society and work towards the establishment of peace, justice, and sustainable living.

Nichiren Buddhism's relevance to the modern age lies in its ability to integrate the timeless wisdom of the Buddha's teachings with the evolving needs and aspirations of humanity. It offers a practical and accessible approach to spirituality that empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of life, find meaning and purpose, and make a positive impact on the world.

As more people discover the transformative potential of Nichiren Buddhism, its influence continues to expand, fostering a global community united by shared values and a commitment to personal growth and societal well-being. In this age of interconnectedness, Nichiren Buddhism serves as a beacon of hope, guiding individuals towards a more enlightened, compassionate, and harmonious future.

The history of Buddhism spans millennia, and its teachings have resonated with countless individuals across different cultures and epochs. Nichiren Buddhism, with its emphasis on the Lotus Sutra and its relevance to the present age, stands as a vibrant and transformative form of Buddhism. Its principles of empowerment, social engagement, and personal growth make it an ideal spiritual path for those seeking to navigate the complexities of the modern world while embodying the timeless principles of original Buddhism.

The Origins of Buddhism

Buddhism is one of the major religions in the world, with over 500 million followers worldwide. It is a religion that originated in ancient India and has spread throughout the world. The roots of Buddhism can be traced back to the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, also known as the Buddha, who lived in the 5th century BCE.

Siddhartha Gautama was born into a wealthy family in Lumbini, in present-day Nepal. His father was a king, and Siddhartha was raised in luxury and comfort. However, at the age of 29, he became disillusioned with his privileged life and left his palace to seek spiritual enlightenment.

For six years, Siddhartha studied with various teachers and practiced meditation and asceticism. He eventually rejected these practices and began a new path, known as the Middle Way, which sought to balance spiritual practice with daily life.

Siddhartha achieved enlightenment under a bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India, at the age of 35. He became the Buddha, meaning the awakened one, and spent the rest of his life teaching others his philosophy and way of life.

The Buddha's teachings centered on the Four Noble Truths, which state that suffering exists, that suffering is caused by desire and attachment, that it is possible to overcome suffering, and that the path to overcoming suffering is the Eightfold Path. The Eightfold Path consists of right understanding, right intention, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration.

The Buddha's teachings were not immediately accepted, and he faced opposition from traditional religious leaders of the time. However, his message spread throughout India and eventually to other parts of Asia.

After the Buddha's death, his teachings were compiled into texts known as the Sutras. The Sutras were written in the Pali and Sanskrit languages and contain the Buddha's teachings on various subjects, such as morality, meditation, and wisdom.

Buddhism evolved over time, and different schools emerged as the religion spread to different regions. The two major schools of Buddhism are Theravada and Mahayana. Theravada, also known as the Way of the Elders, is the oldest surviving school of Buddhism and is prevalent in Southeast Asia. Mahayana, meaning the Great Vehicle, emerged in India in the 1st century BCE and is prevalent in China, Korea, and Japan.

Buddhism has had a significant impact on the world and has influenced many areas of life, including art, literature, and philosophy. Its emphasis on compassion, mindfulness, and wisdom has made it an appealing religion for many people, and it continues to attract new followers today.

In conclusion, Buddhism originated in ancient India, with the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha. His message of the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path spread throughout Asia and has had a significant impact on the world. Today, Buddhism continues to evolve and adapt to new cultures and societies, while retaining its core principles of compassion, mindfulness, and wisdom.

The Life and Teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha (also known as Gautama Buddha and Siddhartha):

Shakyamuni Buddha, also known as Gautama Buddha or Siddhartha, was a spiritual teacher, philosopher, and religious leader who lived in what is now Nepal and India between the 4th and 6th century BCE. He is revered as the founder of the world religion of Buddhism and is recognized by most Buddhist schools as the Enlightened One who transcended Karma and escaped the cycle of birth and rebirth. He taught for around 45 years and built a large following, both monastic and lay, based on his insight into duḥkha, typically translated as suffering, and the end of dukkha, the state called Nibbana or Nirvana.

Gautama was born into a wealthy family as a prince in present-day Nepal. His father, Suddhodana, was a Sakya king, and his mother, Maya, also came from a princely family. Seven days after his birth, his mother passed away, leaving him to the care of her sister and his stepmother Mahajapati, who was also a wife of Suddhodana.

The young Siddhartha was brought up in Kapilavastha, which was the capital of Sakya's kingdom. When he was born, several miracles occurred, according to legend, confirming the arrival of a great being into the world. His father and some prominent members of his court were aware that a divine child, destined to be a great person, was born amidst them. His parents named him Siddhartha, and they expected him to grow and become a successful and skillful king.

However, as he grew older, Siddhartha was moved by the suffering he saw in the world. He was particularly affected by the sight of an old man, a sick man, a dead man, and a wandering ascetic. These experiences led him to renounce his life as a prince and seek the truth about existence and the nature of suffering.

Siddhartha left his palace and began a quest for enlightenment. He studied with various spiritual teachers but eventually realized that their teachings did not offer a solution to the problem of suffering. He then turned to ascetic practices, fasting, and self-mortification, but these extreme practices did not provide him with the answers he was seeking.

One day, as he sat in deep meditation under a bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India, he had a profound realization and became the Buddha, the Enlightened One. He had discovered the Four Noble Truths, which state that suffering is an inherent part of life, that the cause of suffering is craving, that suffering can be overcome, and that the path to the end of suffering is the Noble Eightfold Path.

For the rest of his life, the Buddha traveled throughout India, teaching the Dharma to all who would listen. He taught that the path to enlightenment involves cultivating wisdom, ethical conduct, and mental discipline. His teachings emphasized compassion, loving-kindness, and the importance of mindfulness in all aspects of life.

The Buddha's teachings have had a profound impact on the world. Today, Buddhism is one of the major religions, with millions of followers worldwide. The life and teachings of the Buddha continue to inspire people to seek truth, cultivate wisdom and compassion, and find peace and happiness in their lives.

The Life of Buddha: Exploring his Early Years:

Buddha, which means one who is awakened or the enlightened one, is recognized as a historical figure by scholars, but there is still debate over the specific events and dates of his life. According to the most widely known story of his life, after exploring various teachings for many years, Siddhartha Gautama, also known as Buddha, spent a night in deep meditation beneath a tree. During this meditation, he achieved full awareness, and all the answers he had been seeking became clear, leading to his enlightenment.

Buddha was born into a wealthy family in present-day Nepal. After experiencing a great deal of suffering in the world, he decided to renounce his princely ways and worldly life. He traveled to Rajagriha, the capital of the famous Magadha Kingdom, where he met with King Bimbisara, who unsuccessfully tried to persuade him to abandon his decision. However, Buddha remained steadfast in his resolve and promised to return to Magadha to preach his gospel to the people after attaining enlightenment.

From there, Buddha went to meet a famous sage named Alara Kalama, who taught him the doctrine of Atman and the existence of Brahman. However, Buddha grew disillusioned with his teachings and left to search for truth on his own. He traveled to a forest near Uruvela on the banks of the river Nairanjana, where he met five wandering monks who were also seeking