What is the function of Myoho-renge-kyo?

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, March 21, 2013:

 

The function of fire is to burn and give light. The function of water is to wash away filth. The winds blow away dust and breathe life into plants, animals, and human beings. The earth produces the grasses and trees, and heaven provides nourishing moisture. The five characters of Myoho-renge-kyo are also like that. They are the cluster of blessings brought by the Bodhisattvas of the Earth, disciples of the Buddha in his true identity. -Nichiren

Why is it that sometimes our prayers seem to not be answered?

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, March 21, 2013:

 

Why is it that sometimes our prayers seem to not be answered? This is a manifestation of the Buddha's wisdom—so that we can deepen our prayers, become stronger people, live more profound lives and secure deeper, more lasting good fortune. If our slightest prayer were answered immediately, we'd become lazy and degenerate. And we couldn't hope to build a life of great dignity and substance.

If you want to have great benefits or to develop a profound state of life, you should exert yourself accordingly.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, March 20, 2013:

 

Buddhism aims to make people free in the most profound sense; its purpose is not to restrict or constrain. Buddhist prayer is a right, not an obligation. Because Buddhism entails practice, tenacious efforts are required, but these are all for your own sake. If you want to have great benefits or to develop a profound state of life, you should exert yourself accordingly.

What to do when life seems gloomy and dull?

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, March 20, 2013:

 

There may be times when life seems gloomy and dull. When we feel stuck in some situation or other, when we are negative toward everything, when we feel lost and bewildered, not sure which way to turn—at such times we must transform our passive mind-set and determine, "I will proceed along this path," "I will pursue my mission today." When we do so a genuine springtime arrives in our hearts; and flowers start to blossom.

Prayers

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, March 19, 2013:

 

There are many elements involved in a prayer being answered, but the important thing is to keep praying until it is. By continuing to pray, you can reflect on yourself with unflinching honesty and begin to move your life in a positive direction on the path of earnest, steady effort. Even if your prayer doesn't produce concrete results immediately, your continual prayer will at some time manifest itself in a form greater than you had ever hoped.

No matter how unpleasant the circumstances we find ourselves in, we can transform them into hope and good fortune—into eternal happiness

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, March 19, 2013:

 

By devoting ourselves earnestly to SGI activities, we gain the ability to turn all difficulties and obstacles into benefit, recognizing that earthly desires and delusions are enlightenment and that the sufferings of birth and death are nirvana. No matter how unpleasant the circumstances we find ourselves in, we can transform them into hope and good fortune—into eternal happiness. How incredible this is!

Happiness doesn't exist on the far side of distant mountains.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, March 18, 2013:

 

Happiness doesn't exist on the far side of distant mountains. It is within you, yourself. Not you, however, sitting in idle passivity. It is to be found in the vibrant dynamism of your own life as you struggle to challenge and overcome one obstacle after another, as you clamber up a perilous ridge in pursuit of that which lies beyond.

The SGI is a world of humanity—of the heart, of faith, of compassion.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, March 18, 2013:

 

Let us do our utmost to sustain the wonderfully warm atmosphere of the SGI—an atmosphere where members feel free to discuss whatever is on their minds. Unless we do so, our organization will stop growing, stop developing. The SGI is a world of humanity—of the heart, of faith, of compassion. It is a world of unity and mutual inspiration. That is why it is strong. If we continue to value and promote these qualities, the SGI will continue to grow and develop forever. I want to declare here and now the atmosphere where we can discuss anything is fundamental to the SGI.

Buddhism teaches that life at each moment embraces all phenomena.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, March 17, 2013:

 

Buddhism teaches that life at each moment embraces all phenomena. This is the doctrine of a life-moment possessing three thousand realms, which is the Lotus Sutra's ultimate teaching and Buddhism's essence. Because of the profound way our lives interact with people around us, it is vital that we reach out to others, that we be engaged with our environment and with our local community. A self-absorbed practice or theory without action is definitely not Buddhism.

If you devote your life to helping others, you'll stay young.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, March 17, 2013:

 

You mustn't allow yourselves to grow old before your time. Please live with a youthful spirit. That is what Buddhism teaches us to do and it is how life ought to be lived. If you make a commitment to work for the sake of others, you will be rejuvenated. If you devote your life to helping others, you'll stay young. The power of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo guarantees that.

Youth are vitally important to the world and the human race.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, March 16, 2013:

 

There is no other course for us but to entrust everything to the youth. This holds true for families, businesses and countries. Youth are vitally important to the world and the human race. The key to eternal development lies in fostering, encouraging and training youth who will lead the way to a new era.

March 16, Kosen-rufu Day.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, March 16, 2013:

 

March 16, Kosen-rufu Day. The spirit of this day lies not in magnificent ceremonies or high-sounding words. It lies in being victorious. That is the most crucial thing in all endeavors. In life and in kosen-rufu, we either win or lose. I would like you to be absolute victors in both. No matter what excuses we try to make, giving in to defeat brings misery and loses us the respect of others. I hope each of you without exception will adorn your life with indestructible triumph.

Buddhism comes down to practice.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, March 15, 2013:

 

Buddhism comes down to practice. This means making a personal determination and steadfastly taking action to accomplish it, no matter what obstacles may arise. If we aren't striving to open a way forward, what we are doing cannot be called Buddhist practice. We will only enter the path to Buddhahood by making tireless effort based on the same determination as the Buddha.

We must take the enemies of the Buddha to task.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, March 15, 2013:

 

We must take the enemies of the Buddha to task. We absolutely cannot remain silent when we see people distorting and corrupting the Daishonin's teaching. To speak out resolutely and clarify what is correct and what is erroneous is the Soka Gakkai spirit. If we simply try to be amiable and avoid making waves, then we will play right into the hands of people with malicious intent.

How we age?

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, March 14, 2013:

 

Depending on their outlook, people's old age will dramatically differ, especially in terms of the richness and fulfillment they will experience. Everything is up to our attitude, how we approach life. Do we look at old age as a descending path to oblivion? Or is it a period in which we can attain our goals and bring our lives to a rewarding, satisfying completion?

The challenge of SGI leadership

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, March 14, 2013:

 

As SGI leaders, how we interpret the words of members and what we say in response is important. A genuine leader is someone who gives measured thought to such matters. When talking with individuals, ask yourselves: "What are they worried about?" "What are they trying to say?" "What are they thinking? "What is it they seek?" Try to discern these things in others. Try to know. Try to understand. This is the challenge of leadership. From such compassion arises wisdom.

In the face of rejection, you must learn to be courageous

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, March 13, 2013:

 

In the face of rejection, you must learn to be courageous. It is important to believe in yourself. Be like the sun, which shines on serenely even though not all the heavenly bodies reflect back its light and even though some of its brilliance seems to radiate only into empty space. While those who reject your friendship may sometimes fade out of your life, the more you shine your light, the more brilliant your life will become.

Gongyo and chanting daimoku are like starting an automobile's engine every day and driving in the direction of happiness and truth.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, March 13, 2013:

 

If we don't practice gongyo, the rhythm of our lives will be thrown off kilter, just as a machine that isn't oiled will rust. Gongyo and chanting daimoku are like starting an automobile's engine every day and driving in the direction of happiness and truth. By doing so day after day, you will gradually attain perfect unity with the universe and the Law. That state is the state of the Buddha.

The goal of Nichiren Buddhism

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, March 12, 2013:

 

The human being is not a frail wretch at the mercy of fate. Shakyamuni insisted that to change oneself now is to change the future on a vast scale. The Western impression that Buddhism is all about meditation is alien to the spirit of Shakyamuni. The goal of Nichiren Buddhism is neither escape from reality nor passive acceptance. It is to live strongly, proactively, in such a way as to refine one's own life and reform society through a constant exchange between the outside world and the individual's inner world.

Mission Of SGI

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, March 12, 2013:

 

As SGI members our work, our mission, is clear. We have the unparalleled task of working for the happiness of all humanity in an endeavor we call kosen-rufu. To participate in SGI activities and challenge ourselves earnestly on the path of our mission are the greatest happiness. It all comes down to whether we can appreciate this point.

It is religion, maker of men, that we need. It is education, maker of men that we need.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, March 11, 2013:

 

The Indian philosopher Swami Vivekananda declared: "It is religion, maker of men, that we need. It is education, maker of men that we need." Fostering people, building character— this is absolutely fundamental for creating a bright future. Toward this end, both the profound spirituality of religion and the intellectual illumination of education are essential.

All right, let's get to work again

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, March 11, 2013:

 

All right, let's get to work again!"—This is the spirit of people of genuine substance. Those who avoid hard work or neglect the things they have to do, who just while away their time, eating, sleeping, playing, watching television—such individuals will never experience true happiness, satisfaction or joy.

Quality is the true value, not quantity.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, March 10, 2013:

 

There is a great difference between simply living a long life and living a full and rewarding life. What's really important is how much rich texture and color we can add to our lives during our stay here on Earth—however long that stay may be. Quality is the true value, not quantity.

A man's true delight is to do the things he was made for."

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, March 10, 2013:

 

Where is happiness to be found? The famous Roman philosopher-emperor Marcus Aurelius (121-180) said, "A man's true delight is to do the things he was made for." Human happiness, he maintains, lies in doing those things only humans can: seeking the truth and acting to help those who are suffering. Goethe also asserted that those who work cheerfully and take joy in the fruits of their labor are truly happy. These are the words of great thinkers and as you can see they are in complete accord with the teachings of Buddhism.

Buddhism Day by Day

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, March 9, 2013:

 

Some people are overly critical of themselves and become listless and unassertive as a result. Rather than engaging in pointless self-flagellation, young people would do best just being what young people are: bold, audacious and gutsy—and throwing themselves entirely into whatever the task at hand.

The fundamental spirit of Buddhism is that all people are equal.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Saturday, March 9, 2013:

 

The fundamental spirit of Buddhism is that all people are equal. A person is not great simply because of his or her social standing, fame, academic background or position in the organization. In the world of faith, the truly great are those who spread the Mystic Law and strive for kosen-rufu, who actively work for the sake of Buddhism and the happiness of others. Supremely respectworthy are those who champion the cause of kosen-rufu.

No great achievement is accomplished overnight or without difficulty.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, March 8, 2013:

 

No great achievement is accomplished overnight or without difficulty. Should benefit be obtained easily without making any efforts in Buddhist practice, we'd probably just as easily abandon our faith and end up miserable as a consequence. Because it isn't easy to get into a highly ranked school, students study with all their might, gaining an abundance of knowledge and ability. Faith follows basically the same formula: Practice is essential to attaining Buddhahood.

There is no happiness without courage nor virtue without struggle

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, March 8, 2013:

 

The great French philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712- 78) wrote in his work Emile: "There is no happiness without courage nor virtue without struggle." Without courage there is no happiness and it is impossible to create a life of value. This is an unchanging rule of human existence.

When with our mouths we chant the Mystic Law, our Buddha nature, being summoned, will invariably emerge.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, March 7, 2013:

 

When we revere Myoho-renge-kyo inherent in our own life as the object of devotion, the Buddha nature within us is summoned forth and manifested by our chanting of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. This is what is meant by "Buddha." To illustrate, when a caged bird sings, birds who are flying in the sky are thereby summoned and gather around, and when the birds flying in the sky gather around, the bird in the cage strives to get out. When with our mouths we chant the Mystic Law, our Buddha nature, being summoned, will invariably emerge.

By battling the three powerful enemies, we become genuine disciples of the Daishonin.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, March 7, 2013:

 

Calling forth the three powerful enemies and defeating them makes one a votary of the Lotus Sutra. It is only natural, then, when we advance upon the correct path of mentor and disciple originating with the Daishonin, we will encounter obstacles. By battling the three powerful enemies, we become genuine disciples of the Daishonin. In that respect, the authenticity of the path of mentor and disciple followed by the first three presidents of the Soka Gakkai has been proven beyond doubt.

When we chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, the good and evil capacities of our lives begin to function as the exalted form of fundamental existence

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, March 6, 2013:

 

When we chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, the good and evil capacities of our lives begin to function as the exalted form of fundamental existence. Lives that are full of the pain of hell, lives that are in the state of hunger, lives warped by the state of anger—such lives too begin to move in the direction of creating their own personal happiness and value. Lives being pulled toward misfortune and unhappiness are redirected and pulled in the opposite direction, toward good, when they make the Mystic Law their base.

There is no need for you to be impatient.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, March 6, 2013:

 

There is no need for you to be impatient. If you can achieve something very easily right from the start, you will find no sense of fulfillment or joy. It is in making tenacious, all-out efforts for construction that profound happiness lies.

Faith in Buddhism means establishing one's true self.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, March 5, 2013:

 

Our individual lives are each infinite treasure houses. Our lives are clusters of blessings. Lasting happiness never comes from the outside. Everything of value emanates from within our own being. Faith in Buddhism means establishing one's true self. It is the recognition that the infinite horizon of the cosmos exists right here within the self. One's life opens out toward the cosmos and is enfolded in it; at the same time, one's life encompasses the entire cosmo.

The efforts made by one individual can be immensely important.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, March 5, 2013:

 

The efforts made by one individual can be immensely important. Nichiren Daishonin repeatedly states that victory depends not on numbers but on a group or individual's attitude or resolve. In one passage he writes: "Everyone in Japan, from the sovereign on down to the common people, all without exception tried to do me harm, but I have survived until this day. This is because, although I am alone, I have firm faith [in the Lotus Sutra]"

Like a lantern in the dark, like a strong guide and porter on a treacherous mountain path, the Gohonzon will guard and protect you, Lady Nichinyo, wherever you go.

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, March 4, 2013:

 

A woman who makes offerings to such a Gohonzon invites happiness in this life; and in the next, the Gohonzon will be with her and protect her always. Like a lantern in the dark, like a strong guide and porter on a treacherous mountain path, the Gohonzon will guard and protect you, Lady Nichinyo, wherever you go.

 

The Real Aspect of the Gohonzon
Written to Nichinyo on August 23, 1277

One reason Buddhists chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo each day is to develop strong will and discipline

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, March 4, 2013:

 

Life is an everlasting struggle with ourselves. It is a tug of war between moving forward and regressing, between happiness and unhappiness. Outstanding individuals didn't become great overnight. They disciplined themselves to overcome their weaknesses, to conquer their lack of caring and motivation until they became true victors in life. One reason Buddhists chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo each day is to develop strong will and discipline and, along with those, the ability to tackle any problem seriously and with the determination to overcome it.

People who are vigilant do not die; people who are negligent are as if dead.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, March 4, 2013:

 

Shakyamuni proclaims, "People who are vigilant do not die; people who are negligent are as if dead." This is definitely true. Unremitting diligence in our Buddhist practice—brave and vigorous exertion—infuses our lives with the great life force of the eternal Buddha. In contrast, people who try to get by in life through cunning and deception enact a living death.

What is youth?

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, March 3, 2013:

 

What is youth? The French philosopher Roger Garaudy suggests that while most people believe a person is born young and then ages and dies in reality, acquiring youth in the deepest sense is a very long and challenging process. The youth of which he speaks is the spiritual strength not to stagnate or grow resistant to change but to stay ever open to new possibilities. It is the power of the spirit that refuses to succumb to complacency and strives forward.

It all comes down to you.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, March 3, 2013:

 

It all comes down to you. I hope you won't rely on others or wait for them to do something. Try to develop such a strong sense of responsibility that you can stand up to the fiercest storms, confidently proclaiming, "I'll do it. Just watch me!" Please confront reality, look it squarely in the face, and with guts, wisdom and strength, challenge everything that lies ahead of you.

Words of the Week

Let's treasure our neighbors and
communities.
Remember to give cheerful greetings and
treat people with courtesy and kindness.
Friendship and trust spreads from
where you stand.

Buddhism Day by Day

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, March 2, 2013:

 

The important thing is not whether we are optimistic or pessimistic but rather that, while keeping a careful eye on reality, we are neither overwhelmed by it nor content with the status quo. We must keep the lamps of our ideals alight while being ready to pioneer uncharted paths. Faith in life and in the human spirit is the necessary foundation for this approach.

To start an undertaking is easy; to maintain it is difficult

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, March 2, 2013:

 

There is a saying, "To start an undertaking is easy; to maintain it is difficult." Though creating something new may seem daunting, it is in fact easy when compared to the far more challenging task of carrying on an existing enterprise, to keep it going, to develop it further. Everything depends on people, on capable successors. And our movement for kosen-rufu depends on young people. For that reason I am determined to do all that I can right now to raise genuine successors in the youth division.

We need to go out and mix with people every day

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, March 1, 2013:

 

We need to go out and mix with people every day. Making our local community the base for our activities, we need to forge ties of friendship with others and work with them to create peace. Staying connected in this way to our town, city, state and country is a practical manifestation of our lives permeating all things. We embody the doctrine of a life-moment possessing 3,000 realms when we do kosen-rufu activities.

Words can be either the root of discord or a force for unity.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, March 1, 2013:

 

Words can be either the root of discord or a force for unity. They can be the origin of deception or the key to learning. They can be the instruments of plotting and intrigue or weapons for truth and wisdom. That is why it is so crucial to speak out ever more vigorously for what is right.

An earnest, dedicated spirit shines like a diamond and moves people's hearts.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, February 28, 2013:

 

Make goals. Whether big or small, work toward realizing them. You must be serious about and dedicated to your goals—you'll get nowhere if you just treat them like jokes. An earnest, dedicated spirit shines like a diamond and moves people's hearts. That is because a brilliant flame burns within. If we are sincere, people will understand our intentions, and our positive qualities will shine forth. It is pointless to be caught up in outward appearances. The German poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe writes: "How may one get to know oneself? Never by contemplation, only, indeed, by action. Seek to do your duty, and you will know at once how it is with you."

Buddhism teaches the subtle principle of ichinen, and moreover, the power of faith.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, February 28, 2013:

 

You can forge the path to a fulfilling and enjoyable life if you have the depth of faith to regard everything as a source for creating happiness and value. Conversely, if you see everything only in a negative or pessimistic light, your life will gradually but inevitably be plunged into darkness. Buddhism teaches the subtle principle of ichinen, and moreover, the power of faith.

Happiness is something we must create for ourselves. No one else can give it to us.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, February 27, 2013:

 

We each move forward secure on our own earth, not the earth of others. Happiness is something we must create for ourselves. No one else can give it to us.

A polished mirror is the Buddha's life, whereas a tarnished mirror is that of a common mortal.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, February 27, 2013:

 

Originally, every person's life is a brilliantly shining mirror. Differences arise depending on whether one polishes this mirror: A polished mirror is the Buddha's life, whereas a tarnished mirror is that of a common mortal. Chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is what polishes our lives.

Nichiren teaches that the Buddha and all people are absolutely equal.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, February 26, 2013:

 

No discrimination exists in Nichiren Buddhism. Nichiren teaches that the Buddha and all people are absolutely equal. Chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo with faith in this point is a matter of the utmost importance. Doing so is to embrace the Lotus Sutra. It is also an act of succeeding to the heritage of Buddhism. In this light, we can say that the gist of the teaching of the Lotus Sutra is that all people are equal.

Buddhism teaches that life at each moment embraces all phenomena.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, February 26, 2013:

 

Buddhism teaches that life at each moment embraces all phenomena. This is the doctrine of a life-moment possessing 3,000 realms, which is the Lotus Sutra's ultimate teaching and Buddhism's essence. Because of the profound way our lives interact with people around us, it is vital that we reach out to others, that we be engaged with our environment and with our local community. A self-absorbed practice or theory without action is definitely not Buddhism.

Buddhism teaches the concept of "realizing your inherent potential."

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, February 25, 2013:

 

When you hold fast to your beliefs and live true to yourself, your true value as a human being shines through. Buddhism teaches the concept of "realizing your inherent potential." In other words manifesting your true entity, your innate self, revealing it and bringing it to shine, illuminating all around you. It refers to your most refined individuality and uniqueness.

The only path to victory.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, February 25, 2013:

 

Gandhi taught people to live with lion-like courage, impressing upon them that they could not afford to leave things up to others, that they had to stand up for themselves and fight for justice. Ultimately, the only way forward is by developing self-reliance, forging a stand-alone spirit. That is the only path to victory.

Meaning of Being At Ease.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, February 24, 2013:

 

According to Buddhism, health is not a condition in which we merely escape negative influences. It is a highly positive, active state in which we hold ourselves responsible for such influences, in which we face and try to solve various problems—not just our own but others' problems, too. The word disease implies a lack of ease, which conversely implies that health is a state of comfort. In the Buddhist sense, however, being "at ease" does not mean freedom from difficulties; it means having the strength to meet and overcome any problem.

Buddhism is not about leading a self-centered existence.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, February 24, 2013:

 

Buddhism is not about leading a self-centered existence. If we do not base our lives on the Law, we are not practicing Buddhism. The German writer Friedrich von Schiller writes, "The brave man thinks upon himself the last." This is analogous to the spirit of not begrudging one's life taught in the Lotus Sutra. This means treasuring the Law more highly than one's life. The Law and kosen-rufu are central.

Cultivating the noble spirit with which all people are endowed will directly lead to a change in the destiny of humankind.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, February 23, 2013:

 

The only way for human beings to change is for them to conquer their inner darkness and rediscover the eternal dignity within their own lives. Cultivating the noble spirit with which all people are endowed will directly lead to a change in the destiny of humankind.

A cowardly person cannot realize victory in life.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, February 23, 2013:

 

Without courage we cannot be compassionate. Courage and compassion are inseparable, like the two sides of a coin. Faith is the wellspring of courage. The Daishonin says, "Nichiren's disciples cannot accomplish anything if they are cowardly," (The Major Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, p. 128). A cowardly person cannot realize victory in life. Unless we have the courage to really dedicate our lives to kosen-rufu, we cannot construct true happiness for ourselves and others.

The person who marches on toward hope through sheer force of will—that person is a true optimist.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, February 22, 2013:

 

Real optimism should not be confused with a carefree outlook on life, one in which we forfeit responsibility for our lives. The person undefeated by misfortune, poverty, insult and vilification, the person who can bounce back from every adversity and say, "What? That was nothing!" The person who marches on toward hope through sheer force of will—that person is a true optimist.

We have to keep chanting until our prayers are answered. That is the correct way of prayer.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, February 22, 2013:

 

What was the secret to Edison's success? He explained that it was to never give up before he succeeded in what he was trying to do. Not giving up—that's the only way. Once you give up you are defeated. This is equally true in the realm of faith. Quitting is not faith. We have to keep chanting until our prayers are answered. That is the correct way of prayer.

The full and genuine meaning of our humanity is found in tapping the creative fonts of life itself.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, February 21, 2013:

 

There is no way of life more desolate or more pitiful than one of ignorance of the fundamental joy that issues from the struggle to generate and regenerate one's own life from within. To be human is much more than the mere biological facts of standing erect and exercising reason and intelligence. The full and genuine meaning of our humanity is found in tapping the creative fonts of life itself.

Friendship, camaraderie and unity in faith lie at the heart of the SGI.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, February 21, 2013:

 

Friendship is strong. Friendship, camaraderie and unity in faith lie at the heart of the SGI. They come before the organization. We must never make the mistake of thinking that it is the other way around. The organization serves as a means for deepening friendship, comradeship and faith. To confuse the means and the end is a terrible mistake.

When we limit ourselves with low expectations, the growth of the tree of happiness immediately ceases.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, February 20, 2013:

 

When we plant the seeds of self-doubt, only noxious weeds sprout. When we limit ourselves with low expectations, the growth of the tree of happiness immediately ceases. The power of growth, of improvement, the power to overcome all stagnation and break through every obstacle and transform a barren wasteland into a verdant field—that unstoppable power of hope resides right there in your own heart. It will well up from the rich earth of your innermost being when you face the future without doubt or fear: "I can do more. I can grow. I can become a bigger and better human being"—life and faith are a never-ending struggle to grow.

Faith is the source of true strength and courage.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, February 20, 2013:

 

In his later years, President Toda often told his disciples: "Be courageous in faith! No matter what other people may say, advance boldly! Lead confident lives! Make courage the Gakkai's eternal emblem!" This was the spirit with which he charged us before he died. Faith is the source of true strength and courage. Without courage and confidence we cannot be said to have genuine faith.

The most important thing is to continually strengthen our wish to benefit others.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, February 19, 2013:

 

Chang-an writes, "If one befriends another person but lacks the mercy to correct him, one is in fact his enemy." The consequences of a grave offense are extremely difficult to erase. The most important thing is to continually strengthen our wish to benefit others. -Nichiren

This lifetime will never come again; it is precious and irreplaceable.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, February 19, 2013:

 

This lifetime will never come again; it is precious and irreplaceable. To live without regret, it is crucial for us to have a concrete purpose and continually set goals and challenges for ourselves. It is equally important that we keep moving toward specific targets steadily and tenaciously, one step at a time.

Buddhism Day by Day

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, February 18, 2013:

 

Life contains the capacity, like flames that reach toward heaven, to transform suffering and pain into the energy needed for value creation, into light that illuminates darkness. Like the wind traversing vast spaces unhindered, life has the power to uproot and overturn all obstacles and difficulties. Like clear flowing water, it can wash away all stains and impurities. And finally, life, like the great earth that sustains vegetation, impartially protects all people with its compassionate, nurturing force.

Religion should bring people together.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, February 18, 2013:

 

Religious strife must be avoided at all cost; under no circumstance should it be allowed. People may hold different religious beliefs, but the bottom line is that we are all human beings. We all seek happiness and desire peace. Religion should bring people together. It should unite the potential for good in people's hearts toward benefiting society and humanity and creating a better future.

True individuality never comes to full flower without hard work.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, February 17, 2013:

 

True individuality never comes to full flower without hard work. Therefore, you're making a big mistake if you think that who you are right now represents all you are capable of being.

The Capacity of Life

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, February 17, 2013:

 

Life contains the capacity, like flames that reach toward heaven, to transform suffering and pain into the energy needed for value-creation, into light that illuminates darkness. Like the wind traversing vast spaces unhindered, life has the power to uproot and overturn all obstacles and difficulties. Like clear flowing water, it can wash away all stains and impurities. And finally life, like the great earth that sustains plants and vegetation, impartially protects all people with its compassionate, nurturing force.

What did I do to deserve this?

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, February 16, 2013:

 

In the course of Buddhist practice, various things arise on account of the negative causes and tendencies in our own lives. There may be times when we think, "What did I do to deserve this?" But we should not be swayed every time such phenomena arise; for it is already certain that we will become happy in the end. We should regard as training everything that happens to us in our practice to reach the destination of happiness.

Same mind as Nichiren

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, February 16, 2013:

 

I hope you will always live in unity with Nichiren Daishonin pursuing faith as disciples who are "of the same mind as Nichiren." Unfazed by the petty jealousies of others, please move forward boldly with joy and laughter.

Endless striving is the only way to realize peace

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, February 15, 2013:

 

Endless striving is the only way to realize peace. Negligence resulting from over-confidence and satisfaction invites peril. Peace, once achieved, does not last forever by itself. It requires vigilance throughout all the activities of daily life.

Difficulty can be a source of dynamic new growth and positive progress.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, February 15, 2013:

 

Life is full of unexpected suffering. Even so, as Eleanor Roosevelt says: "If you can live through that [a difficult situation] you can live through anything. You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, 'I lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along.'" That's exactly right. Struggling against great difficulty enables us to develop ourselves tremendously. We can call forth and manifest those abilities lying dormant within us. Difficulty can be a source of dynamic new growth and positive progress.

Love is not two people gazing at each other, but two people looking ahead together in the same direction.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, February 14, 2013:

 

A shallow person will have only shallow relationships. Real love is not one person clinging to another; it can only be fostered between two strong people secure in their individuality. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, author of The Little Prince wrote in a work called Wind, Sand and Stars, "Love is not two people gazing at each other, but two people looking ahead together in the same direction."

A strong spirit, strong faith and strong prayer—developing these is victory and the world of Buddhahood.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, February 14, 2013:

 

Strength is happiness. Strength is itself victory. In weakness and cowardice there is no happiness. When you wage a struggle, you might win or you might lose. But regardless of the short-term outcome, the very fact of your continuing to struggle is proof of your victory as a human being. A strong spirit, strong faith and strong prayer—developing these is victory and the world of Buddhahood.

Nothing must be postponed.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, February 13, 2013:

 

Henry David Thoreau, a renowned American Renaissance thinker, wrote in his journal: "Nothing must be postponed. Take time by the forelock. Now or never! You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave, find your eternity in each moment." We shouldn't put anything off but seize the moment, living with all our being in the present. If we do that, he says, each moment will become eternity.

Remembering things about a person is an expression of compassion and concern.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, February 13, 2013:

 

Remembering things about a person is an expression of compassion and concern. Forgetfulness shows a lack of compassion, a lack of responsibility.

What should I do with my life?

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, February 12, 2013:

 

You may have fundamental questions about yourself and your identity: Who am I? What should I do with my life? It is quite natural to feel unsure about the best way to proceed. If you haven't yet decided on your future course, I feel the best thing is just to concentrate your energies on what you need to do right now, and gradually your full potential will emerge.

What matters most is how you lead your life—not what those around you are doing.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, February 12, 2013:

 

The important thing is to hold firm to your beliefs without being influenced or swayed by what others do or say. Those who live this way are strong and free of regret. What matters most is how you lead your life—not what those around you are doing.

The essence of Buddhism is compassion.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, February 11, 2013:

 

There was a word that second Soka Gakkai president Josei Toda often stressed with the fervent wish to impart its importance to his successors. That word was courage. He once gave this clear-cut guidance: " The essence of Buddhism is compassion. We, too, need to have compassion but, being ordinary mortals, the reality is that it is quite difficult for us. Courage substitutes for compassion. I am speaking of the courage to save others from suffering. To practice Buddhism with courage translates into compassion."

We have to make up our minds.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, February 11, 2013:

 

The moment we resolve "I will become healthy!" "I will become strong!" "I will work cheerfully for kosen-rufu!" our lives begin to move in that direction. We have to make up our minds.

When your inner resolve changes, everything is transformed.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, February 10, 2013:

 

Nichiren explains that to know oneself is to know all things in the universe. When you change, your environment changes, too. When your inner resolve changes, everything is transformed. This principle is summed up by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's maxim, "Nothing's outside that's not within."

Kosen-rufu is a supreme, golden path extending throughout the Latter Day of the Law into the eternal future

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, February 10, 2013:

 

Kosen-rufu is a supreme, golden path extending throughout the Latter Day of the Law into the eternal future. Let us continue to advance boldly and intrepidly along this path as Nichiren Daishonin teaches. This is the way world peace will be accomplished. If we do not widely spread the principles and ideals of the Daishonin's Buddhism, there will be no hope for the peace and happiness of humankind.

Creativeness means pushing open the heavy door to life.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, February 9, 2013:

 

You must never slacken in your efforts to build new lives for yourselves. Creativeness means pushing open the heavy door to life. This is not an easy struggle. Indeed, it may be the hardest task in the world. For opening the door to your own life is more difficult than opening the doors to the mysteries of the universe.

Let us strive for the Law and live with dignity as proud members of the SGI!

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, February 9, 2013:

 

There is no place in the SGI for cowards or for egoists who are given to arbitrary or self-serving views. Our movement has no need for the fainthearted, filled with doubt, who readily succumb to negative influences. Let us strive for the Law and live with dignity as proud members of the SGI! The 21st century shall be the essential phase of our movement. Bathed in the brilliant light of dawn, let us take our places on that golden stage and lead truly magnificent lives!

Death is a period of "recharging" for our next existence.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, February 8, 2013:

 

Josei Toda often compared death to sleep. When we have been awake for a long time, we tire and go to sleep. And when we wake up after a sound sleep, our vitality is restored. After we have been alive for a long time, we grow weary and die. And then we set out on a new life with a fresh spirit. Death is a period of "recharging" for our next existence.

The Daishonin says that when you see someone who embraces the Mystic Law, you should rise and greet them from afar, showing them the same respect you would a Buddha.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, February 8, 2013:

 

I hope that as leaders you will always express your appreciation for and do your utmost to support the many sincere members who are steadfastly exerting themselves in faith. The Daishonin says that when you see someone who embraces the Mystic Law, you should rise and greet them from afar, showing them the same respect you would a Buddha.

Faith and courage are the powers and functions of the heart that enable us to open the world of Buddhahood in our lives.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, February 7, 2013:

 

In his writings, regarding Buddhist practice, Nichiren repeatedly emphasized the importance of the heart. While teaching that faith and courage are the powers and functions of the heart that enable us to open the world of Buddhahood in our lives, he also cautioned against the heart's negative functions, such as disbelief and cowardice, which close us off to our potential for Buddhahood.

Everything starts with you.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, February 7, 2013:

 

 

Your environment does not matter. Everything starts with you. You must forge yourself through your own efforts. I urge each of you to create something, start something and make a success of something. That is the essence of human existence, the challenge of youth. Herein lies a wonderful way of life always aiming for the future.

Death is not defeat, but a wonderful stimulus to live more vigorously and more meaningfully.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, February 6, 2013:

 

The Buddhist view is that to die a good death, one must have led a good life. The knowledge that death represents the return of the individual life to the great universal life prior to another phenomenal manifestation is a source of splendid strength, rich with compassion and wisdom. As he or she strives to perfect himself by doing good for others, the Buddhist is constantly aware that death is a fulfilling and enriching part of life. For people who believe this, death is not defeat, but a wonderful stimulus to live more vigorously and more meaningfully.

Rather than putting things off till the future, we should find meaning in life

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, February 6, 2013:

 

Unless we live fully right now, not sometime in the future, true fulfillment in life will forever elude us. Rather than putting things off till the future, we should find meaning in life, thinking and doing what is most important right now, right where we are—setting our hearts aflame and igniting our lives. Otherwise, we cannot lead an inspired existence.

Truly happy are those who can help others become happy.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, February 5, 2013:

 

Life for everyone is a struggle against the sufferings of birth, old age, sickness and death. Happiness is not the absence of problems or worries; it is to be undefeated no matter what problems or worries we may face. And this happiness is not solely focused on oneself. Truly happy are those who can help others become happy.

When it comes to championing a just cause, you must never be cowardly, never fawn, never try to curry favor.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, February 5, 2013:

 

I hope that you will always speak the truth boldly, saying what needs to be said no matter whom you're addressing. When it comes to championing a just cause, you must never be cowardly, never fawn, never try to curry favor.

If you devote your life to helping others, you'll stay young.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, February 4, 2013:

 

You mustn't allow yourselves to grow old before your time. Please live with a youthful spirit. That is what Buddhism teaches us to do, and it is how life ought to be lived. If you make a commitment to work for the sake of others, you will be rejuvenated. If you devote your life to helping others, you'll stay young. The power of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo guarantees that.

The Daishonin declares that there is no place for cowards among his disciples.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, February 4, 2013:

 

Please never turn your back on your faith. Courage is crucial. There is no room for faintheartedness in faith. The timid doom themselves to ridicule—from their partners, from their children, from their friends, from the world at large. The Daishonin declares that there is no place for cowards among his disciples. President Toda said the same.

If we refuse to be defeated by them and persist in our faith, we are certain to advance along the path towards happiness and victory.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, February 3, 2013:

 

Because we live in the human realm, we of course experience problems and suffering. Life is filled with contradictions. But if we refuse to be defeated by them and persist in our faith, we are certain to advance along the path towards happiness and victory. This is the essential power of Buddhism.

Your efforts.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, February 3, 2013:

 

I can declare with confidence that each of you who bravely exerts yourself in doing Gakkai activities and taking leadership for kosen-rufu, calmly overcoming every obstacle along the way, will enjoy immeasurable benefit. I can state with certitude too that each of you is in perfect accord with the Daishonin's spirit. Your efforts win his unrestrained applause and approval.

Buddha dwells within our hearts

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, February 2, 2013:

 

First of all, as to the question of where exactly hell and the Buddha exist, one sutra states that hell exists underground, and another sutra says that the Buddha is in the west. Closer examination, however, reveals that both exist in our five-foot body. This must be true because hell is in the heart of a person who inwardly despises his father and disregards his mother. It is like the lotus seed, which contains both blossom and fruit. In the same way, the Buddha dwells within our hearts. -Nichiren

What matters most is that you embrace the Gohonzon throughout your life.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, February 2, 2013:

 

Because life is long, you should not be impatient. What matters most is that you embrace the Gohonzon throughout your life. It is vitally important to continually challenge yourself to chant even a little more daimoku and to pray before the Gohonzon for the fulfillment of your desires.

Understanding the subtle workings of one's mind is the key to faith and attaining Buddhahood in this lifetime.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, February 1, 2013:

 

While controlling your mind, which is at once both extremely subtle and solemnly profound, you should strive to elevate your faith with freshness and vigor. When you do so, both your life and your surroundings will open wide before you and every action you take will become a source of benefit. Understanding the subtle workings of one's mind is the key to faith and attaining Buddhahood in this lifetime.

Characteristic of a bodhisattva

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, February 1, 2013:

 

Buddhism teaches that one characteristic of a bodhisattva is being able to perceive the world's sounds. The insight needed to correctly discern and grasp developments in society and the times—even to anticipate them before they happen—is indispensable.