The Practice of Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism LA Beach Cities Region Introduction to Buddhism August 6, 2007

The Practice of Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism Nichiren Buddhism Purpose: become happy

The Practice of Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism Practice means “put into action” Create value, Cause-oriented Practice for oneself and others Gongyo practice for oneself Expedient Means (2 nd Chapter) The Life Span of the Thus Come One (16 th )

The Practice of Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism Gongyo: Assiduous Practice persistent application not hardship Gongyo: Revolutionize our lives base our lives on Buddhahood struggle, but break the chains of destiny habitual behavior

The Practice of Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism Gongyo: Return to ultimate truth Before and after—experience eternal, unchanging enlightened nature of the universe refreshes us/ universal self

The Practice of Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism Practice for others Jihi: take away unhappiness, give happiness (not charity) Teach Nichiren Buddhism introduce, show with our lives Emissary, votary, disciples

The Practice of Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism Practice for oneself and others effect is for both; master our negative tendencies Balancing practice: oneself and others flowing water

The Practice of Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism Study as practice tools: writings, guidance, publications not academic, purpose is aid in faith The three elements: Faith Practice and Study

The Practice of Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism Faith is… Nothing extraordinary, human quality everyday faith: sun rising, love Life is something great dispels doubts, anxiety, regret, fears Seeking mind more than belief

The Practice of Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism Faith as a result of our practice pure heart, flexible spirit absolute faith in universal law and in ourselves and in others Result is enjoyable life, serenity, security, strength But must begin with faith (open heart)

The Practice of Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism Faith as challenge change destiny defeat obstacles, devilish functions Training for our lives don’t avoid hardship, problems not coping or tolerating

The Practice of Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism Practice of Nichiren Buddhism means… establish peaceful, creative society active / challenge based in reality, then can prove power of Gohonzon must have ideals, strive to achieve them, transcending present realities

“I entrust you with the propagation of Buddhism in your province.” (WND-1, 1117)

“Abutsu-bo, you deserve to be called a leader of this northern province.” (WND-1, 300)

“There should be no discrimination among those who propagate the five characters of Myoho-renge-kyo in the Latter Day of the Law, be they men or women.” (WND-1, 385)