Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, December 31, 2012:

 

Buddhism enables us to tap from within the depths of our beings the greatest courage and strongest life force there is. Buddhas are not destined for unhappiness or defeat. Those who practice Buddhism can definitely transform all adversity into something positive, irrespective of the troubled time in which they live, their personal circumstances or the hardships that befall them.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, December 31, 2012:

 

To lead a life in which we are inspired and can inspire others, our hearts have to be alive; they have to be filled with passion and enthusiasm. To achieve that, as President Toda also said, we need the courage to "live true to ourselves." And to live true to ourselves, we need the strength of mind not to be swayed by our environment or be obsessed with vanity and superficial appearances. Rather than borrowing from or imitating others, we need the conviction to be able to think for ourselves and to take action from our own sense of responsibility.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, December 30, 2012:

 

Defeat for a Buddhist lies not in encountering difficulties but rather in not challenging them. Difficulties only truly become our destiny if we run away from them. We must fight as long as we live.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, December 30, 2012:

 

Taking good care of our health is most important. In particular, it is vital for those who are advanced in years to get sufficient rest to avoid becoming fatigued. Sleep is the best medicine. I also hope you will put your wisdom to work and find various ways to improve and maintain your health.

The Opening of the Eyes

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, December 31, 2012:

 

I, Nichiren, am the richest man in all of present-day Japan. I have dedicated my life to the Lotus Sutra, and my name will be handed down in ages to come.

The Opening of the Eyes
Written to Shijo Kingo in February 1272

The Actions of the Votary of the Lotus Sutra

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Sunday, December 30, 2012:

 

In the yard around the hut the snow piled deeper and deeper. No one came to see me; my only visitor was the piercing wind. Great Concentration and Insight and the Lotus Sutra lay open before my eyes, and Nam-myoho-renge-kyo flowed from my lips. My evenings passed in discourse to the moon and stars on the fallacies of the various schools and the profound meaning of the Lotus Sutra. Thus, one year gave way to the next.

The Actions of the Votary of the Lotus Sutra
Written to the lay nun Konichi in 1276

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, December 29, 2012:

 

Ralph Waldo Emerson writes: "And so of cheerfulness, or a good temper, the more it is spent, the more of it remains." Cheerfulness is not the same as frivolousness. Cheerfulness is born of a fighting spirit. Frivolousness is the reverse side of cowardly escape. Emerson also said that "power dwells with cheerfulness; hope puts us in a working mood." Without cheerfulness there is no strength. Strive to advance still more brightly and cheerfully.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, December 29, 2012:

 

Who is truly great? I hope you can develop the ability to discern true human greatness. A great person is someone who forges unity among human beings through sincere dialogue, armed with a solid philosophy, feet firmly planted on the ground. A great person is one who lives among the people and earns their unshakable trust. Fickle popularity and temporary fads are nothing but illusions.

The Essentials for Attaining Buddhahood

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Saturday, December 29, 2012:

To hope to attain Buddhahood without speaking out against slander is as futile as trying to find water in the midst of fire or fire in the midst of water. No matter how sincerely one believes in the Lotus Sutra, if one is guilty of failing to rebuke slander of the Law, one will surely fall into hell, just a single crab leg will ruin a thousand pots of lacquer. This is the meaning of the passage in the sutra, "Because the poison has penetrated deeply and their minds no longer function as before."

The Essentials for Attaining Buddhahood
Written to Soya Jiro Hyoe-no-jo Kyoshin on August 3, 1276

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, December 28, 2012:

 

Those who believe in the Lotus Sutra are as if in winter, but winter always turns to spring. Never, from ancient times on, has anyone heard or seen of winter turning back to autumn. Nor have we ever heard of a believer in the Lotus Sutra who turned into an ordinary person. The sutra reads, "If there are those who hear the Law, then not a one will fail to attain Buddhahood."-Nichiren

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, December 28, 2012:

 

Kosen-rufu is a very long struggle. It is a march that will continue over the 10,000 years of the Latter Day of the Law. Therefore, let us advance joyfully and unhurriedly. Activities must not be conducted in such a way that people suffer and become exhausted. Meetings should be short and not too numerous and conducted so that they are valuable and productive for all concerned.

The Swords of Good and Evil

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, December 28, 2012:

 

In the next life you should use this sword as your staff. The Lotus Sutra is the staff that helps all the Buddhas of the three existences as they set their minds on enlightenment. However, you should rely upon Nichiren as your staff and pillar. When one uses a staff, he will not fall on treacherous mountain paths or rough roads, and when led by the hand, he will never stumble.

The Swords of Good and Evil
Written to Hojo Yagenta on February 21, 1274

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, December 27, 2012:

 

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.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, December 27, 2012:

 

No matter what the circumstances, you should never concede defeat. Never conclude that you've reached a dead end, that everything is finished. You possess a glorious future. And precisely because of that, you must persevere and study. Life is eternal. We need to focus on the two existences of the present and the future and not get caught up in the past. We must always have the spirit to begin anew "from this moment," to initiate a new struggle each day.

Roots of Good Fortune

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Thursday, December 27, 2012:

 

Your own offerings were not made to me, Nichiren, but to the Lotus Sutra. Therefore, we must leave it to Shakyamuni Buddha, Many Treasures Buddha, and the Buddhas of the ten directions [to fathom the greatness of] the resulting benefits.

Roots of Good Fortune
Written to the lay nun Kubo on December 27, 1281

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, December 26, 2012:

 

It is foolish to ignore or deny the contribution of medicine. Otherwise, faith descends into fanaticism. We must use medical resources wisely in fighting illness. Buddhism gives us the wisdom to use medicine properly. Wisdom is the basic ingredient to health, to long life, and to happiness. The new century of health, then, must be a new century of wisdom.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, December 26, 2012:

 

Good health equals Buddhism. Daily life equals faith. Taking care to avoid traffic accidents and making efforts to stay in good health, therefore, are all part of our Buddhist practice. It is important that we live wisely, striving with the awareness each day that all the actions and activities we undertake for the sake of faith contribute to our good health and well-being.

The Bodies and Minds of Ordinary Beings

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Wednesday, December 26, 2012:

 

In addition, we live today in a time of trouble, when there is little that ordinary people can do. And yet, busy as you are, in your sincerity of heart you have sent me thick-stemmed bamboo shoots of the moso variety as offerings to the Lotus Sutra here in the mountains. Surely you are sowing good seeds in a field of fortune. My tears flow when I think of it.

The Bodies and Minds of Ordinary Beings
Recipient and date unknown

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, December 25, 2012:
Buddhism does not ask "What religion does this person follow?" but "What is this person's state of life?" Buddhism exists to enable all people to cultivate and manifest the world of Buddhahood in their lives. Society is a realm of discrimination and distinctions. But Buddhism transcends all superficial differences and focuses directly on life.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, December 25, 2012:
If a person is hungry, we should give them bread. When there is no bread, we can at least give words that nourish. To a person who looks ill or is physically frail, we can turn the conversation to some subject that will lift their spirits and fill them with the hope and determination to get better. Let us give something to each person we meet: joy, courage, hope, assurance, or philosophy, wisdom, a vision for the future. Let us always give something.

The Fourteen Slanders

Daily Wisdom
 From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Tuesday, December 25, 2012:

And if we go by the words of the Lotus Sutra, you should also teach the sutra to the best of your ability. When the world makes you feel downcast, you should chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, remembering that, although the sufferings of this life are painful, those in the next life could be much worse. And when you are happy, you should remember that your happiness in this life is nothing but a dream within a dream, and that the only true happiness is that found in the pure land of Eagle Peak, and with that thought in mind, chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, December 24, 2012:

 

Where is happiness to be found? The famous Roman philosopher-emperor Marcus Aurelius said, "A man's true delight is to do the things he was made for." Human happiness, he maintained, lies in doing those things only humans can: seeking the truth and acting to help those who are suffering. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, too, 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.

For Today and Tomorrow

Monday, December 24, 2012:

 

Many religions have demanded blind faith, taking away people's independence. President Makiguchi opposed such enslavement. What he called for instead was solidarity of awakened common people. To achieve this, he proposed a self-reliant way of life in which we advance on the path of our choice with a firm, independent character. He also stressed a contributive way of life in which we set our fundamental goal in life toward the realization of happiness for ourselves and others, casting aside arrogance and self-satisfaction to respect and benefit others.

Letter to Niike

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, December 24, 2012:

 

Becoming a Buddha is nothing extraordinary. If you chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo with your whole heart, you will naturally become endowed with the Buddha's thirty-two features and eighty characteristics. As the sutra says, "hoping to make all persons equal to me, without any distinction between us," you can readily become as noble a Buddha as Shakyamuni.

Letter to Niike
Written to Niike Saemon-no-jo in February 1280

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, December 23, 2012:

 

Peace and culture are one. A genuinely cultured nation is a peaceful nation, and vice versa. When conflicts multiply, culture wanes and nations fall into a hellish existence. The history of the human race is a contrast between culture and barbarity. Only culture is a force strong enough to put an end to conflict and lead humanity in the direction of peace.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, December 23, 2012:

 

Leo Tolstoy concluded that the only way to bring about a fundamental change in society is to realize a change in public opinion, a change in people's minds. Then how can we change public opinion? Tolstoy asserted: "It is only necessary for people to say what they really think or at least to refrain from saying what they do not think." It is vital, in other words, not to be swayed by others' opinions or past ways of thinking or doing. Instead each of us must become wise, possessing our own firm convictions.

The Blessings of the Lotus Sutra

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Sunday, December 23, 2012:

 

In view of all this, your sincerity in sending a gift of five strings of blue-duck coins whenever the opportunity arises truly entitles you to be known as one who propagates the daimoku of the Lotus Sutra in Japan. As first one person, then two persons, then a thousand, ten thousand, a hundred thousand and then all the people throughout the country come to chant the daimoku, before you know it their blessings will accrue to you.

The Blessings of the Lotus Sutra
Written to Myomitsu on March 5, 1276

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, December 22, 2012:

 

Even if you are born into the most affluent of circumstances or enjoy a spectacular marriage that is the envy of others, there is no guarantee that you will be happy. Happiness does not depend on wealth or personal appearance, nor does it hinge on fame or recognition. If your heart is empty, you cannot build genuine happiness.

 

There is an expansive life-state of profound, secure happiness that transcends any material or social advantage. It is called faith; it is called the life-state of Buddhahood.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, December 22, 2012:

 

Our lives are infinitely precious. To not attain a state of absolute happiness in this life time is a great loss. Our Buddhist practice exists so that we can attain indestructible happiness. We must fight to the fullest right now, not some time in the future.

Letter to Shomitsu-bo

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Saturday, December 22, 2012:

 

Since we are now living in the latter age when people are shallow in wisdom and puffed up with pride, it is unlikely that anyone will heed the points I have made in the discussion above. But when a sage or worthy appears, then the full truth of the matter will no doubt become clear. Because I care about you, I have written this letter as a guide. I hope you will study it when you have time.

Letter to Shomitsu-bo
Written to Shomitsu-bo in 1277

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, December 21, 2012:

 

Even if today may seem to be a time of total darkness, it will not last forever. The dawn will surely come if you advance, ever forward, without being defeated. The day will definitely come when you can look back fondly and declare, "I am savoring this happiness because I struggled back then." It is those who know the bitterness of winter that can savor the true joy of spring.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, December 21, 2012:

 

Buddhism holds that everything is in a constant state of flux. Thus the question is whether we are to accept change passively and be swept away by it or whether we are to take the lead and create positive changes on our own initiative. While conservatism and self-protection might be likened to winter, night and death, the spirit of pioneering and attempting to realize ideals evokes images of spring, morning and birth.

The Supremacy of the Law

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, December 21, 2012:

 

Likewise the people of Japan, by becoming enemies of the Lotus Sutra, have brought ruin on themselves and their country. And because I proclaim this, I am called arrogant by those of little understanding. But I do not speak out of arrogance. It is simply that if I did not speak out I would not be the votary of the Lotus Sutra. Moreover, when my words prove later to be true, people will be able to believe all the more readily. And because I write this down now, the people of the future will recognize my wisdom.

The Supremacy of the Law
Written to Oto and her mother, Nichimyo, on August 4, 1275

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, December 20, 2012:

 

Creation is quite different from mere ideas. Even ideas require fundamental and extensive speculative accumulation. It goes without saying that creation in learning demands an incomparably greater fundamental ability. The task of creation is like a lofty mountain whose summit is formed only when there exist vast slopes and a solid foundation. Likewise, the fruitful work of creation can only be attained when it is based on the extensive knowledge of learning and profound speculation.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, December 20, 2012:

 

President Toda used to say: "Don't be impatient. Since you have embraced the Gohonzon, your situation will definitely improve. There's no need to worry. Sure there will be hard times, times when you feel like crying. But as long as you have the Gohonzon, your life will become bright and joyful." As long as we persevere in faith, we will become happy. We must never doubt this no matter what happens but always advance resolutely, staunchly enduring all hardships and obstacles along the way. This is what true faith is.

Reply to Onichi-nyo

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Thursday, December 20, 2012:

 

In the past, Virtue Victorious offered a mudpie to the Buddha, and was reborn as King Ashoka. . . . A poor woman cut off her hair and sold it to buy oil [for the Buddha], and not even the winds sweeping down from Mount Sumeru could extinguish the flame of the lamp fed by this oil. Accordingly, your offerings of two and three strings of coins are far greater even than those of the ruler of Japan, who may offer the nation and build a pagoda adorned with the seven kinds of treasures that reaches to the heaven of the thirty-three gods.

Reply to Onichi-nyo
Written to Onichi-nyo in 1280

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, December 19, 2012:

 

Relationship problems are opportunities to grow and mature. Such problems can be character building if you don't let them defeat you. That's why it's important not to isolate yourself. No one can exist apart from others. Remaining aloof from others cultivates selfishness, which accomplishes nothing.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, December 19, 2012:

 

Encouragement—offering encouraging words—is important. Nichiren Daishonin states, "The voice does the Buddha's work" (Gosho Zenshu, p. 708). Sincere words of encouragement have the power to give people hope and courage to go on living.

The Kalpa of Decrease

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Wednesday, December 19, 2012:

Great evil portends the arrival of great good. If all of Jambudvipa were to be thrown into chaos, there could be no doubt that [this sutra would] "be widely propagated throughout Jambudvipa."

The Kalpa of Decrease
Recipient and date unknown

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, December 18, 2012:
 

Live with a dancing spirit. The stars in the heavens are dancing through space, the Earth never ceases to spin. All life is dancing: the trees with the wind, the waves on the sea, the birds, the fish, all are performing their own dance of life. Every living thing is dancing, and you must keep dancing too, for the rest of your life!

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, December 18, 2012:

 

We SGI members devote ourselves to serving the Law, serving humanity. Ours is not an egocentric life. That is why we are busier than others and perhaps don't have as much opportunity for relaxation with our families. Nevertheless, we continue to devote ourselves to others. Ours is the most noble way of life. We must make sure our children can understand and respect our beliefs, our way of life and our dedication. We must make conscious efforts to verbalize and communicate our thoughts and feelings to them. Finding the wisdom for this task is an expression of our faith.

The Selection of the Time

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Tuesday, December 18, 2012:

 

In commenting on this passage, I have this to say: Shakyamuni taught that the shallow is easy to embrace, but the profound is difficult. To discard the shallow and seek the profound is the way of a person of courage.

The Selection of the Time
Written to Yui in 1275

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, December 17, 2012:
 

There is no self-improvement without effort. Without taking action, happiness will never come, no matter how long you wait. A life without peaks and valleys is a fairy tale. Reality is strict, because it is a win-or-lose struggle. This is the way it is for human beings. Therefore, you should not allow yourselves to be battered about by reality but rather willingly rise to its challenges and use them as opportunities to train and strengthen yourselves.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, December 17, 2012:

 

 

We are all human beings; in that regard, we are all the same. The only real difference lies in people's life-conditions. Our life-condition continues beyond death, into eternity. Therefore, as the Daishonin says, "Faith alone is what really matters."

The Pure and Far-Reaching Voice

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, December 17, 2012:

 

The Buddha's utterances have become the works that compose the entire body of sutras and bring benefit to all living beings. And among the sutras, the Lotus Sutra is a manifestation in writing of the Thus Come One Shakyamuni's intent; it is his voice set down in written words. Thus the Buddha's heart is embodied in these written words. To illustrate, it is like seeds that sprout, grow into plants, and produce rice. Though the form of the rice changes, its essence remains the same.

The Pure and Far-Reaching Voice
Written to Shijo Kingo in 1272

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, December 16, 2012:

A society that has sacrificed so much to material wealth that it has forgotten the human heart and the better human aspirations degenerates into something compassionless, doctrinaire, ignorant and ultraconservative. When this happens, fundamental solutions to calamities become impossible. If we protect the truth and are resolute, we are capable of creating peace and prosperity. And the truth we must protect ought to be high and great. Our great truth—the thing that we must protect to the utmost—involves ethics and the best of human nature. But more basic than anything else is our duty to guard the truth of life, the truth that we and the universe are one, and that a single ordinary human thought contains the entirety of universal life.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, December 16, 2012:

 

Outward appearance is not important—what counts is what is inside our hearts. Are there heart-to-heart bonds? Some families may always be together physically but are estranged at heart. Some families can only get together for brief periods but manage to enjoy concentrated and lively heart-to-heart communication when they do meet. Families that share bonds of closeness based on day-to-day efforts are ones in which the members feel comfortable and at ease with each other, no matter where they are or what they're doing.

Great Bodhisattva Hachiman

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Sunday, December 16, 2012:

 

The scripture known as the Nirvana Sutra lists the beings that have been able to attain the way through the Lotus Sutra, and the list includes such filthy creatures as dung beetles, vipers, and scorpions. To express the wonderful power of the Lotus Sutra, Bodhisattva Nagarjuna says that it enables even such creatures as dung beetles to attain Buddhahood.

Great Bodhisattva Hachiman
Written to Nichigen-nyo on December 16, 1280

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, December 15, 2012:
 

To challenge yourselves to your heart's content in your youth so that you are left with no regrets later, to grow, to make dynamic strides forward—this is the noblest way to live. Victory in youth leads to victory in life.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, December 15, 2012:

 

The good fortune that accrues to parents who apply themselves diligently to SGI activities will protect their children without fail. Based on this conviction, you must still make positive efforts to open and sustain dialogue with your children, not allowing yourselves to neglect them, claiming that you're too busy or it can't be helped, or telling yourselves that somehow things will be taken care of. Unless you exert yourselves in this way, you are irresponsible parents who lack compassion.

Letter to Jakunichi-bo

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Saturday, December 15, 2012:

 

"This person as he advances through this world" means that the first five hundred years of the Latter Day of the Law will witness the advent of Bodhisattva Superior Practices, who will illuminate the darkness of ignorance and earthly desires with the light of the five characters of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. In accordance with this passage, Nichiren, as this bodhisattva's envoy, has urged the people of Japan to accept and uphold the Lotus Sutra. His unremitting efforts never slacken, even here on this mountain.

Letter to Jakunichi-bo
Written to Jakunichi-bo Nikke on September 16, 1279

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, December 14, 2012:

Your happiness and victory in life hinge on whether you can grasp, while you are still young, the fact that happiness lies within. That's why there is no need for you to compare yourselves to others but instead strive powerfully and cheerfully to develop your state of life, aiming to improve yourselves each day. From that struggle will bloom noble flowers of mission, flowers of happiness that are yours and yours alone. Shine as you are, live true to yourselves, and advance in your own unique way.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, December 14, 2012:

 

Faith manifests itself as wisdom. The purpose of our faith is to become wise, so that we can live wisely. The desire to save others becomes merely an abstract goal if those who practice faith cannot communicate with their own children nor build strong and happy families.

The Drum at the Gate of Thunder

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, December 14, 201:

 

A woman who embraces the lion king of the Lotus Sutra need not fear any of the beasts of hell, or of the realm of hungry spirits and animals. All the offenses committed by a woman in her lifetime are like dry grass, and the single character myo of the Lotus Sutra is like a small spark. When a small spark is set to a large expanse of grass, not only the grass but also the big trees and large stones will all be consumed. Such is the power of the fire of wisdom in the single character myo.

The Drum at the Gate of Thunder
Written to the lay nun Sennichi on October 19, 1278

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, December 13, 2012:
 

Life is a chain. All things are related. When any link is disturbed, the other links will be affected. We should think of the environment as our mother—Mother soil, Mother Sea, Mother Earth. There is no crime worse than harming one's mother.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, December 13, 2012:

 

 

The organization of faith is not something that holds you back or restricts you. Rather, it is a springboard that enables you to develop yourself to the utmost and to lead the most dynamic existence. It is the most precious place for carrying out our Buddhist practice.

Encouragement to a Sick Person

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Thursday, December 13, 2012:

 

I have heard that you are suffering from illness. Is this true? The impermanence of this world is such that even the healthy cannot remain forever, let alone those who are ill. Thoughtful persons should therefore prepare their minds for the life to come. Yet one cannot prepare one's mind for the next life by one's own efforts alone. Only on the basis of the teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha, the original teacher of all living beings, can one do so.

Encouragement to a Sick Person
Written to Nanjo Hyoe Shichiro on December 13, 1264

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, December 12, 2012:
 

Happiness is a matter of the heart. This is not mere spiritualism. Our hearts are precious vessels endowed with the treasure of Buddhahood. When we strive earnestly in faith and practice and reveal our Buddhahood, we can walk along the sure and steady path to happiness and attain a state of complete fulfillment and satisfaction. Nichiren writes: "Fortune comes from one's heart and makes one worthy of respect."

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, December 12, 2012:

 

 

Sometimes your children may not be able to do gongyo, but there is no reason for parents to become overly concerned or agitated about this. There are times when chanting only three daimoku is sufficient. To continue practicing [even though gongyo may not be consistent] is far more important. What matters is that the children maintain their connection to the Gohonzon and the SGI for their entire lives.

On Establishing the Four Bodhisattvas as the Object of Devotion

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Wednesday, December 12, 2012:

 

Teach this doctrine to others clearly as I have taught you these many years. Those who call themselves my disciples and practice the Lotus Sutra should all practice as I do. If they do so, Shakyamuni, Many Treasures, Shakyamuni's emanations throughout the ten directions, and the ten demon daughters will protect them.

On Establishing the Four Bodhisattvas as the Object of Devotion
Written to Toki Jonin on May 17, 1279

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, December 11, 2012:

When a tree has been transplanted, though fierce winds may blow, it will not topple if it has a firm stake to hold it up. But even a tree that has grown up in place may fall over if its roots are weak. Even a feeble person will not stumble if those supporting him are strong, but a person of considerable strength, when alone, may fall down on an uneven path. -Nichiren

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, December 11, 2012:

 

 

President Toda used to say, "Become individuals who are strong physically, intellectually and spiritually." To be strong in all three areas is the ideal. Many people may be strong in one or two of these areas, but only when all three are combined can we enjoy a well-balanced life, a life of resounding victory. Those who cultivate such all-around strength are never defeated.

The Three Kinds of Treasure

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Tuesday, December 11, 2012:

 

Over and over I recall the moment, unforgettable even now, when I was about to be beheaded and you accompanied me, holding the reins of my horse and weeping tears of grief. Nor could I ever forget it in any lifetime to come. If you should fall into hell for some grave offense, no matter how Shakyamuni might urge me to become a Buddha, I would refuse; I would rather go to hell with you. For if you and I should fall into hell together, we would find Shakyamuni Buddha and the Lotus Sutra there.

The Three Kinds of Treasure
Written to Shijo Kingo on September 11, 1277

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, December 10, 2012:

Ralph Waldo Emerson once wrote: "Women are, by their power of conversation and their social influence, the civilizers of mankind. What is civilization? I answer, the power of good women." The solidarity of wise, good women will be the great power to guide the world toward peace and happiness.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, December 10, 2012:

 

We must put down firm roots; we must be strong. Inner strength is a prerequisite for happiness, a prerequisite for upholding justice and one's beliefs. One of the Buddha's titles is "He Who Can Forbear." To courageously endure, persevere and overcome all difficulties—the Buddha is the ultimate embodiment of the virtue of forbearance. The power of faith gives us the strength to weather and survive any storm. Perseverance is the essence of a Buddha.

The Wonderful Means of Surmounting Obstacles

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, December 10, 2012:

 

The wonderful means of truly putting an end to the physical and spiritual obstacles of all living beings is none other than Nam-myoho-renge-kyo.

The Wonderful Means of Surmounting Obstacles
Written to Shijo Kingo; date unknown

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, December 9, 2012:
 

Florence Nightingale, the founder of the modern nursing profession, proudly declared: "Let us be anxious to do well, not for selfish praise but to honor and advance the cause, the work we have taken up." The spirit to fulfill a noble mission is pure, strong, and beautiful. It is a spirit that we all should emulate.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, December 9, 2012:

 

 

Faith means infinite hope, and infinite hope resides in the SGI. As long as your faith is sincere, infinite glory, boundless good fortune and endless victory will unfold before you. You will never find yourselves at a dead end.

Words of the Week

December 3, 2012

Billowing waves increase in force
the more obstacles they encounter.
Let's challenge ourselves unremittingly
with dauntless prayer so
we can hold aloft the flag of victory!

The Fourteen Slanders

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Sunday, December 9, 2012:

 

"How great is the difference between the blessings received when a sage chants the daimoku and the blessings received when we chant it?" To reply, one is in no way superior to the other. The gold that a fool possesses is in no way different from the gold that a wise man possesses; a fire made by a fool is the same as a fire made by a wise man. However, there is a difference if one chants the daimoku while acting against the intent of this sutra.

The Fourteen Slanders
Written to Matsuno Rokuro Saemon on December 9, 1276

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, December 8, 2012:

Education allows us to be truly human. It deepens us and enables us to build a better society and a brighter future. The profundity of education determines the profundity of culture, the nature of society and the firmness of peace. Education plays a major role in creating deep solidarity, mutual understanding and trust.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, December 8, 2012:
 

Joy is not simply your personal, egoistic happiness. Nor is it making others happy at the expense of your own happiness. You and others delighting together, you and others becoming happy together—this is the Mystic Law and the wondrous thing about our realm of kosen-rufu. The Daishonin states, "Joy means that both oneself and others have wisdom and compassion" (Gosho Zenshu, p. 761).

The Heritage of the Ultimate Law of Life

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Saturday, December 8, 2012:

 

Gold can neither be burned by fire nor corroded or swept away by water, but iron is vulnerable to both. A wise person is like gold and a fool like iron. You are like pure gold because you embrace the "gold" of the Lotus Sutra. The Lotus Sutra reads in part, "Sumeru is the loftiest of all mountains. The Lotus Sutra is likewise the loftiest of all the sutras." It also states, "The good fortune of the believer cannot be burned by fire or washed away by water."

The Heritage of the Ultimate Law of Life
Written to Sairen-bo Nichijo on February 11, 1272

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, December 7, 2012:
 

Peace can never be attained by passively waiting for it. It is necessary for each of us, no matter how weak we may feel we are, to build deep within our hearts a stronghold for peace that can withstand, and in the end silence, the incessant calls for war.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, December 7, 2012:

 

It is our hearts that change others' hearts. Friendship changes people. Travelers who pull their capes over their shoulders and brace themselves determinedly against the cold wind naturally relax and change their outlook and actions when warmed by the sun.

On Prolonging One's Life Span

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, December 7, 2012:

 

A single life is worth more than the major world system. You still have many years ahead of you, and moreover you have encountered the Lotus Sutra. If you live even one day longer, you can accumulate that much more benefit. How precious your life is!

On Prolonging One's Life Span
Written to the lay nun Myojo in 1279

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, December 6, 2012:

Human society can be full of contradictions. It can be unfair; unforgiving, too. Yet we cannot afford to turn our backs to the world. A person who does loses, and no excuse can gloss that over. Given a choice whether to sink or swim, one must swim to the very end, no matter how the seas around us may rage.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, December 6, 2012:

Where can we find the royal road to reformation and change? Emerson declared: "Not he is great who can alter matter, but he who can alter my state of mind." He strongly urged us to undergo an inner reformation. I want you to be assured that the challenge to which we set ourselves day after day—that of our human revolution—is the royal road to bringing about a reformation in our families, local regions and societies. An inner revolution is the most fundamental and at the same time the ultimate revolution for engendering change in all things.

On Establishing the Correct Teaching for the Peace of the Land

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Thursday, December 6, 2012:

 

You have associated with a friend in the orchid room and have become as straight as mugwort growing among the hemp. If you will truly give consideration to the troubles I have been describing and put entire faith in these words of mine, then the winds will blow gently, the waves will be calm, and in no time at all we will enjoy bountiful harvests.

On Establishing the Correct Teaching for the Peace of the Land
Submitted to Hojo Tokiyori on July 16, 1260

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, December 5, 2012:

 

Inconspicuous virtue brings conspicuous reward. From the perspective of Buddhism, we never fail to receive the effect of our actions, whether good or bad; therefore, it's meaningless to be two-faced or to pretend to be something we're not.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, December 5, 2012:

 

If you practice faith yet have an attitude of complaint, you will destroy your good fortune in direct proportion. Those who are full of complaint are not respected by others. From both Buddhist and secular perspectives, their behavior does not befit a wise or worthy person.

The Swords of Good and Evil

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Wednesday, December 5, 2012:

 

Money serves various purposes according to our needs. The same is true of the Lotus Sutra. It will be a lantern in the dark or a boat at a crossing. At times it will be water, and at other times, fire. This being so, the Lotus Sutra assures us of "peace and security in this life and good circumstances in the next."

The Swords of Good and Evil
Written to Hojo Yagenta on February 21, 1274

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, December 4, 2012:

There is an expansive life-state of profound, secure happiness that transcends any material or social advantage. It is called faith; it is called the life-state of Buddhahood. As Nichiren reminds us: "It is the heart that is important." It is in the heart of faith that Buddhahood resides and boundless and immeasurable happiness shines forth. Happiness is not something located far away. We must realize that it exists within our own lives. Nichiren Buddhism teaches this and shows us how to attain indestructible happiness.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, December 4, 2012:

 

In any earnest struggle, there come crucial challenges—mountains that must be scaled and conquered if we are to win. In Buddhist practice, too, we face such crucial challenges. If we hope to advance kosen-rufu and attain Buddhahood, then we must prevail over these mountains.

The Opening of the Eyes

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Tuesday, December 4, 2012:

When it comes to understanding the Lotus Sutra, I have only a minute fraction of the vast ability that T'ien-t'ai and Dengyo possessed. But as regards my ability to endure persecution and the wealth of my compassion for others, I believe they would hold me in awe.

The Opening of the Eyes
Written to Shijo Kingo in February 1272

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, December 3, 2012:

 

Faith is the secret to happiness for all people. When you truly forge your mind of faith, you will become an eternal victor throughout the three existences of past, present and future. Strong faith enables you to display your wisdom appropriately, so that you can take advantage of change and move forward in the direction of victory and hope.

This Person Advances through the World

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, December 3, 2012:

 

The present time corresponds to the first five hundred years of the Latter Day of the Law. Passages of the sutra clearly state that at this time Bodhisattva Superior Practices will appear and bestow the five characters of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo on all the people of Japan. And they reveal that he will face exile and execution. I am also like the envoy of Bodhisattva Superior Practices because I spread this doctrine.

"This Person Advances through the World"
Written to Ikegami Uemon no Tayu Munenaka on December 3, 1279

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, December 3, 2012:

 

Dialogue is a positive endeavor. It builds solidarity and creates unity. To reject others only has negative repercussions. It invites division and leads to destruction. The point is to meet and to talk. It is only natural that our perspective may at times differ from that of others. But dialogue gives rise to trust, even among those who don't see eye to eye.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, December 2, 2012:

 

What is defeat in life? It is not merely making a mistake; defeat means giving up on yourself in the midst of difficulty. What is true success in life? True success means winning in your battle with yourself. Those who persist in the pursuit of their dreams, no matter what the hurdles, are winners in life, for they have won over their weaknesses.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, December 2, 2012:

 

Nichiren Daishonin writes, "If you light a lantern for another, it will also brighten your own way" (Gosho Zenshu, p. 1598). Please be confident that the higher your flame of altruistic action burns, the more its light will suffuse your life with happiness. Those who possess an altruistic spirit are the happiest people of all.

On Repaying Debts of Gratitude

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Sunday, December 2, 2012:

 

All these things I have done solely in order to repay the debt I owe to my parents, the debt I owe to my teacher, the debt I owe to the three treasures of Buddhism, and the debt I owe to my country. For their sake I have been willing to destroy my body and to give up my life, though as it turns out, I have not been put to death after all.

On Repaying Debts of Gratitude
Written to Joken-bo and Gijo-bo on July 21, 1276

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, December 1, 2012:

The main thing is to be proud of the work you do, to live true to yourself. Activity is another name for happiness. What's important is that you give free, unfettered play to your unique talents, that you live with the full radiance of your being. This is what it means to be truly alive.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, December 1, 2012:

 

Buddhism means putting the teachings into practice. Practice equals faith. With sincere prayer and action, our desires cannot possibly fail to be fulfilled. When you continue to apply yourselves to your Buddhist practice toward kosen-rufu, solidifying and gaining mastery in your faith, you will find that all your prayers will definitely be answered.

The Opening of the Eyes

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Saturday, December 1, 2012:

I vowed to summon up a powerful and unconquerable desire for the salvation of all beings, and never to falter in my efforts.

The Opening of the Eyes
Written to Shijo Kingo in February 1272

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, November 30, 2012:

 

That we take pains to protect weapons while we expose children—the future of the race—to peril is impermissible. To ignore this absurdity will spell defeat for humanity. We must not live to destroy. We have the spiritual power to create peace and happiness.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, November 30, 2012:

 

President Toda often said: "Those of you who have problems or sufferings, pray earnestly! Buddhism is a deadly serious win-or-lose struggle. If you should [pray with such an earnest attitude] and still have no solution forthcoming, then I will give you my life!" This invincible conviction on which Mr. Toda was willing to stake his life inspired the members.

Letter to the Lay Priest Nakaoki

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, November 30, 2012:

 

Though water may be muddied, it will again become clear. Though the moon may hide behind the clouds, it will surely reappear. Similarly, in time my innocence became apparent, and my predictions proved not to have been in vain.

Letter to the Lay Priest Nakaoki
Written to the lay priest Nakaoki and his wife on November 30, 1279

To My Friends

November 29, 2012

To the men's division members,
our golden pillars--
no matter what, don't be defeated!
"Victor" is another name for Buddha.
Let's confront and overcome
all manner of adversity
and engrave our personal history
in the annals of kosen-rufu!

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, November 29, 2012:

 

Do not become subservient. Do not dwell on every tiny setback in the course of pursuing your chosen path. To do so would be foolish. Victory or defeat is determined by our entire lives. Moreover, our final years are the most crucial. What is enviable about the pretentious rich? What is great about conceited celebrities? What is admirable about political leaders who gained their positions of power by treating others with contempt? Dig right where you stand, for there lies a rich wellspring!

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, November 29, 2012:

 

Compassion is the very soul of Buddhism. To pray for others, making their problems and anguish our own; to embrace those who are suffering, becoming their greatest ally; to continue giving them our support and encouragement until they become truly happy—it is in such humanistic actions that the Daishonin's Buddhism lives and breathes.

Reply to the Lay Nun Nichigon

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Thursday, November 29, 2012:

 

Whether or not your prayer is answered will depend upon your faith; [if it is not,] I will in no way be to blame. When the water is clear, the moon is reflected. When the wind blows, the trees shake. Our minds are like the water. Faith that is weak is like muddy water, while faith that is brave is like clear water. Understand that the trees are like principles, and the wind that shakes them is like the recitation of the sutra.

Reply to the Lay Nun Nichigon
Written to the lay nun Nichigon on November 29, 1280

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, November 28, 2012:

 

Many young women agonize over perceived personality flaws and a lack of self-confidence. Nichiren Buddhism, however, teaches the great path of human revolution that enables each of us to shine in our own unique way. With this philosophy, you can decisively overcome a weak and easily swayed life-state and become a person of strength and purpose. It will allow you to withstand the storms of suffering and build a rock-solid foundation that will support you throughout your entire precious lives.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, November 28, 2012:

 

Nichiren Daishonin discusses the meaning of the Chinese characters for the word benefit (Jpn kudoku), as follows: "The ku of kudoku means to extinguish evil and doku means to bring forth good" (Gosho Zenshu, p. 762). We fight against those who try to destroy the True Law. That struggle purifies us and brings forth benefits in our lives. Justice or happiness without a battle is just an illusion. Thinking that happiness means a life free of hard work and effort is fantasy.

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, November 27, 2012:

 

Faith is the ultimate essence of intellect. Through the practice of correct faith, the intellect comes to shine. Intellect without correct faith lacks a firm anchor in the soil of life and eventually becomes disordered. This prompted the first Soka Gakkai president, Tsunesaburo Makiguchi, to remark that many modern thinkers were suffering from what he termed "higher psychosis." Faith without intellect, meanwhile, leads to blind faith and fanaticism. Faith or intellect alone—one without the other—is unhealthy.

This is What I Heard

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Wednesday, November 28, 2012:

 

Buddhism spreads according to the time and the people's capacity. Although I may not be worthy of this teaching, I expound it because the time is right.

This is What I Heard
Written to the lay priest Soya Jiro on November 28, 1277

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, November 27, 2012:

 

The true victors in life are those who, enduring repeated challenges and setbacks, have sent the roots of their being to such a depth that nothing can shake them.

The Unity of Husband and Wife

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Tuesday, November 27, 2012:

Only in the Lotus Sutra do we read that a woman who embraces this sutra not only excels all other women, but also surpasses all men.

The Unity of Husband and Wife
Written to Nichigen-nyo on January 27, 1275

Words of the Week

November 19, 2012

 

Our great struggles for kosen-rufu
are opportunities to transform
our [negative] karma.
Buoyed by the momentum of
uplifting daimoku,
let's charge ahead and
create a personal history!

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, November 26, 2012:

 

Life is long. The important thing is to remain true to a lofty goal to the very end. Buddhism enables you to adorn the final chapter of your life with brilliant success, just as the golden sun colors the sky in glorious crimson hues and beams of sublime light. To do so, you need to keep making efforts year after year and winning year after year.