The persons known as bodhisattvas in all cases take the so-called four universal vows,[1] the first of which reads, “Living beings are numberless: I vow to save them.” If this vow is not fulfilled, then it is impossible to fulfill the fourth vow, which reads, “Enlightenment is supreme: I vow to attain it.”
“The Differences between Hinayana and Mahayana,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 2, p. 471
It is the mentors and disciples of Soka who have revived in modern times the bodhisattva practice that is the very essence of Buddhism. When we chant and courageously take action for the happiness of others, Buddha wisdom wells forth from within. We can break through our personal limitations and attain a vast and expansive state of life.
Talking with others about Buddhism is a joy-filled path leading to happiness for ourselves and others.
This year marks the 70th anniversary of the February Campaign.[2] With pride in our vow for kosen-rufu as Bodhisattvas of the Earth, let us continue, wisely and cheerfully, to help many more people form a connection to Nichiren Buddhism!
Translated from the January 24, 2021 Seikyo Shimbun, the Soka Gakkai’s daily newspaper.
References
- Four universal vows: Four vows made by bodhisattvas when they embark on Buddhist practice: 1) to save innumerable living beings; 2) to eradicate unlimited earthly desires; 3) to master inexhaustible doctrines; and 4) to attain unsurpassed enlightenment. ↩︎
- February Campaign: In February 1952, as Tokyo’s Kamata Chapter adviser, 24-year old Daisaku Ikeda led the chapter in achieving the unprecedented monthly propagation result of 201 new households. ↩︎
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