Nichiren Buddhism
Introduction
Nichiren Buddhism is a branch of Mahayana Buddhism based on the teachings of the 13th-century Japanese monk Nichiren (1222–1282). It emphasizes the Lotus Sutra as the ultimate Buddhist teaching and advocates for the chanting of the mantra "Nam-myoho-renge-kyo" as a means to attain enlightenment. Nichiren Buddhism is distinguished by its focus on the direct relationship between the practitioner and the teachings of the Lotus Sutra, as well as its emphasis on social engagement and the reform of society.
Historical Background
Early Life of Nichiren
Nichiren was born in 1222 in the coastal village of Kominato in present-day Chiba Prefecture, Japan. He entered the Buddhist priesthood at a young age and studied various Buddhist schools, including Tendai, Shingon, Pure Land, and Zen. Dissatisfied with the prevailing interpretations of Buddhism, Nichiren sought a more direct and accessible path to enlightenment.
Establishment of Nichiren Buddhism
In 1253, Nichiren proclaimed his teaching by chanting "Nam-myoho-renge-kyo" for the first time. He asserted that the Lotus Sutra, particularly its 16th chapter, contained the essence of the Buddha's enlightenment and was the supreme teaching of Buddhism. Nichiren's teachings emphasized the importance of faith, practice, and study, and he called for the reform of both the Buddhist clergy and the government.
Persecutions and Exiles
Nichiren's outspoken criticism of other Buddhist schools and the government led to several persecutions and exiles. He was exiled to the Izu Peninsula in 1261 and later to Sado Island in 1271. Despite these hardships, Nichiren continued to write and propagate his teachings, gaining a devoted following.
Core Teachings
The Lotus Sutra
The Lotus Sutra is central to Nichiren Buddhism. Nichiren believed that this sutra encapsulated the ultimate truth of Buddhism and that its teachings were directly relevant to the lives of ordinary people. The sutra's 16th chapter, "The Life Span of the Thus Come One," is particularly significant, as it reveals the eternal nature of the Buddha and the potential for all beings to attain Buddhahood.
Nam-myoho-renge-kyo
The mantra "Nam-myoho-renge-kyo" is the core practice of Nichiren Buddhism. Chanting this phrase is believed to activate one's inherent Buddha nature and bring about positive changes in one's life and environment. "Nam" signifies devotion, "myoho" represents the mystic law, "renge" symbolizes the lotus flower (which blooms and seeds simultaneously), and "kyo" denotes the sutra or teaching.
Three Great Secret Laws
Nichiren Buddhism is also characterized by the Three Great Secret Laws: the object of devotion (Gohonzon), the invocation (Daimoku), and the place of worship (Kaidan). The Gohonzon is a mandala inscribed by Nichiren that serves as a focal point for practice. The Daimoku is the chanting of "Nam-myoho-renge-kyo," and the Kaidan refers to the place where the Gohonzon is enshrined and practice is conducted.
Practices
Gongyo
Gongyo is the daily practice of reciting sections of the Lotus Sutra and chanting "Nam-myoho-renge-kyo." This practice is typically performed in the morning and evening and is considered essential for deepening one's faith and understanding of Nichiren's teachings.
Shakubuku
Shakubuku is the practice of spreading Nichiren Buddhism by challenging erroneous beliefs and encouraging others to embrace the teachings of the Lotus Sutra. This method of propagation is direct and confrontational, reflecting Nichiren's own approach to spreading his teachings.
Study
Study is a crucial aspect of Nichiren Buddhism. Practitioners are encouraged to read and study the Lotus Sutra, Nichiren's writings (Gosho), and other relevant Buddhist texts. This study helps deepen one's understanding of the teachings and strengthens one's faith.
Nichiren's Writings
Nichiren's writings, known as Gosho, are a collection of letters, treatises, and doctrinal essays. These texts provide insight into Nichiren's thoughts, teachings, and experiences. Some of the most important Gosho include "On Establishing the Correct Teaching for the Peace of the Land," "The Opening of the Eyes," and "The Object of Devotion for Observing the Mind."
Schools and Sects
Nichiren Shoshu
Nichiren Shoshu is one of the major schools of Nichiren Buddhism. It was established in the 13th century by Nikko Shonin, one of Nichiren's closest disciples. Nichiren Shoshu places a strong emphasis on the Gohonzon and the role of the high priest.
Soka Gakkai
Soka Gakkai is a lay organization that emerged in the 20th century and has become one of the largest and most influential Nichiren Buddhist movements worldwide. It emphasizes the application of Nichiren's teachings to daily life and social issues and promotes peace, culture, and education.
Nichiren Shu
Nichiren Shu is another major school that traces its origins to Nichiren's direct disciples. It focuses on the study and practice of Nichiren's teachings and the Lotus Sutra, with an emphasis on traditional Buddhist rituals and ceremonies.
Social and Political Engagement
Nichiren Buddhism has a long history of social and political engagement. Nichiren himself was deeply concerned with the state of society and sought to reform both the Buddhist clergy and the government. This tradition of social activism continues in various Nichiren Buddhist movements, particularly in Soka Gakkai, which advocates for peace, human rights, and environmental sustainability.
Nichiren Buddhism in the Modern World
Global Spread
Nichiren Buddhism has spread globally, with significant communities in Asia, the Americas, Europe, and Africa. The international growth of Soka Gakkai has played a major role in this expansion, promoting Nichiren's teachings through cultural exchanges, educational programs, and grassroots activism.
Interfaith Dialogue
Nichiren Buddhist organizations have engaged in interfaith dialogue and cooperation, working with other religious groups to promote mutual understanding and address common social issues. This engagement reflects the inclusive and universal nature of the Lotus Sutra's teachings.
Academic Studies
Nichiren Buddhism has attracted scholarly interest, with numerous academic studies examining its history, doctrines, and practices. Researchers have explored Nichiren's writings, the development of various Nichiren Buddhist schools, and the impact of Nichiren Buddhism on Japanese and global culture.
Conclusion
Nichiren Buddhism represents a dynamic and socially engaged form of Mahayana Buddhism, rooted in the teachings of the Lotus Sutra and the life of Nichiren. Its emphasis on the direct relationship between the practitioner and the ultimate truth, as well as its focus on social reform and activism, continue to resonate with people around the world.