CategoryGosho Study

Key highlights from the Gosho

Answer: Nichiren Daishonin teaches that the imagery and stories in the Lotus Sutra describe our magnificent potential as human beings.

“It is not enough that I alone should accept and have faith in your words—we must see to it that others as well are warned of their errors.” (“On Establishing the Correct Teaching for the Peace of the Land,”  The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, p. 26) Background The dialogue in this work begins

The lion’s roar (shishi ku) is the preaching of the Buddha. The preaching of the Law means the preaching of the Lotus Sutra, or the preaching of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo in particular. The first shi [which means “teacher”] of the word shishi, or “lion,” is the Wonderful Law that is passed on by the teacher. The second

Answer: Celebrating life’s events with loved ones leads to creating harmony and deeper bonds, so freely take part in them. Most important is your own firm Buddhist faith and practice.

Answer: It may take time to change the dynamics with your parents, but a good starting point may be to find small ways to appreciate them and express that appreciation.

Key highlights from the Gosho

“Moreover, it is extremely difficult to meet a person who expounds this sutra exactly as the sutra directs. It is even more difficult than for a one-eyed turtle to find a piece of floating sandalwood, or for someone to hang Mount Sumeru from the sky with the fiber from a lotus stem.” (“Letter to the Brothers,” 

Answer: Yes. As you grow stronger and more generous, gain fortune and become the pillar of happiness in your family, they will also feel more assured and happy.

Answer: By deepening our faith, we can gain the resolve to see illness as an opportunity to change our karma and develop the strength to overcome seemingly insurmountable barriers.

When the people all chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, the wind will no longer buffet the branches, and the rain will no longer break the clods of soil. The world will become as it was in the ages of Fu Hsi and Shen Nung. In their present existence the people will be freed from misfortune and disasters and

Answer: One of the best things we can offer our children is our example of living a strong, victorious life, basing everything on our ever-deepening faith.

Answer: Find one thing you can appreciate, take action to express appreciation for it, and repeat this each day. Every effort will help expand and enrich your heart.

“Each of you should summon up the courage of a lion king and never succumb to threats from anyone. The lion king fears no other beast, nor do its cubs. Slanderers are like barking foxes, but Nichiren’s followers are like roaring lions.” (“On Persecutions Befalling the Sage,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin,vol. 1, p. 997) Background

Answer: Strive to become someone who appreciates what others have done for you, even if you forget what you’ve done for others.

Answer: You can bolster your life force by chanting, treasuring your connections with others and working to create a brighter future.

“Whether you chant the Buddha’s name, recite the sutra, or merely offer flowers and incense, all your virtuous acts will implant benefits and roots of goodness in your life. With this conviction you should strive in faith.” (“On Attaining Buddhahood in This Lifetime,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, p. 4) Background Practicing Nichiren Buddhism

Answer: By never abandoning your faith or integrity, you will find a way forward.

Answer: Continue treasuring your parents while developing confidence that your efforts in faith will lead to their happiness.

Answer: Decide: ‘This will not defeat me!’ And make it an opportunity to transform your life.