31st October

IN Nichiren Daishonin's writings, we find the statement, "Fortune comes from one's heart and makes one worthy of respect." Faith is what enables us to strengthen and deepen our hearts to the ultimate degree.


THOSE who persevere in their Buddhist practice throughout their lives are true followers of Nichiren Daishonin. Those who embrace the Gohonzon and never abandon their practice no matter what difficulties lie ahead are Nichiren Daishonin’s genuine disciples.


A life of staunch perseverance and struggle based on faith will, like flowing water; break through any wall of obstacles that stands in its way. Therefore, one must not discard the heavy load that one is carrying. A position in the organisation is, in a sense, a heavy load to bear. However, one who continues walking straight ahead while shouldering these responsibilities will, in proportion to their weight, be able to greatly develop one’s state of life.


THERE is no person who has ever achieved first-class standing in his or her given field merely on innate talent or favourable circumstances alone. It is the number of life and death struggles a person has experienced that forges and creates an individual of genuine first-class standing.

A person who makes serious efforts to achieve a great goal does not overlook even the slightest details. One who neglects small things will never amount to much.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

30th October

TO continue advancing on the path of mentor and disciple for the next 10, 20, 30 years, even if no one is watching our efforts – that is the spirit of a genuine practitioner of Buddhism.


EVERYTHING is contained in the single word, faith. It encompasses truth, courage, wisdom and good fortune. It includes compassion and humanity as well as peace, culture and happiness. Faith is eternal hope; it is the secret to limitless self-development. Faith is the most basic principle for growth.


THIS is the age of self-indulgence. Therefore, those who lack a clear direction in life inadvertently drift towards merrymaking and pleasure-seeking. The organisation of kosen-rufu and SGI activities direct one towards self-improvement and towards realising true fulfilment in life. No action taken based on faith is wasted. In every respect, such actions will come to take on the greatest significance.


OPTIMISTS are raised by good mothers. It is important for mothers to be optimistic and not brood over their troubles. Such cheerfulness, while not only being beneficial for the mother herself, will also become a source of strength for the children throughout their lives. If a mother is full of vitality, then her children will be also. Thus, she will enable the whole family and those around them to feel at ease to go about their activities full of hope.

THERE are innumerable types of suffering. What we should realise is that the times when we suffer severely are also when we challenge and change our karma, and unlock the door to great good fortune. True happiness means to establish a condition in which we can gladly face even the greatest suffering and overcome it.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

29th October

THE path of kosen-rufu is the path walked by Nichiren Daishonin. It is the supreme path of happiness. Let us cheerfully and wisely advance in harmony along this path as we steadily expand the scope of our kosen-rufu movement.


WHERE is joy found? Mahatma Gandhi declared, "Joy lies in the fight, in the attempt, in the suffering involved, not in the victory itself." It is exhilarating to win but the challenges we encounter and surmount along the way bring an even greater sense of fulfilment. True joy is found in struggle.


BENEFIT in the Latter Day of the Law is fundamentally inconspicuous in nature. A sapling grows larger year after year, and then, when certain conditions are met, it bursts into bloom – not one or two branches, but the entire tree. Similarly, by continuing to make assiduous efforts we will become champions of eternal victory whose lives are replete with benefit and good fortune. It is towards this end that we exert ourselves in our daily Buddhist practice. Those who make tenacious efforts advance; they make strides in their human revolution.


WHETHER scholar, a politician or a millionaire – all are human beings. Moreover, as the Daishonin stressed over and over again, in front of the Gohonzon, everyone is equal. No discrimination exists – nor must it be allowed to exist. The realm of Buddhism is an egalitarian and democratic one, where all human beings are equal.


THOSE who practise Buddhism should be strictly warned against committing slander, and they should guard closely against arrogance. It is most dangerous for one who practises Buddhism to vainly exhaust his/her inner life-force by giving free rein to his arrogant mind.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

28th October

TAKE great care with your words. For compassionate talk can move a person, while an inconsiderate word can leave his/her heart deeply wounded.


EVEN though your existence may appear ordinary, I hope that all of you wise members will live lofty lives by fulfilling the respective vows you have made for kosen-rufu. According to the Gosho, those who do so will shine as Buddhas; all of you are the true children of the original Buddha.


IN any event, if we are going to wage a struggle, then we must not be defeated. Buddhism is about winning or losing. Life too is a struggle to achieve victory. Everything is a struggle between victory and defeat. Victory brings happiness, while defeat brings misery. Life's purpose is to be victorious. The purpose of faith is to win in every aspect of our lives.


A self-centred existence may seem free and uninhibited but the truth of the matter is that it will only lead us to suffer in the life-state of Hell. In contrast, a life dedicated to Buddhism and the happiness of our fellow members will enable us to attain the state of Buddhahood and achieve enlightenment.


SOMETIMES people who have lost their passion for kosen-rufu renew their commitment of their own accord, jolted by experiencing a deadlock in their lives. Though it may take time, the sincerity behind the leaders’ daimoku and encouragement will get through to the person eventually and he or she will definitely stand up again. This is the essence of faith.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

27th October

YOUTH are the hope of the future. Boys and girls are the treasure of tomorrow. It is our foremost responsibility to place trust in and harbour expectation for youth, and to love and cherish boys and girls from the bottom of our hearts. Otherwise, the people of the world will never see a future of rich fields alive with fragrant flowers.


HUMAN beings are exactly that - human beings. There is no way a human being can be any more than this. The most important thing is whether an individual is great as a human being when stripped of all worldly artifice or affection. Regardless of one's title or position - or lack thereof - a great person will always be a great person no matter what. This is the essence of Buddhism of Nichiren Daishonin which expounds that the life of a common mortal is the most sublime.


WHAT is praiseworthy is the determination to fight, to exert oneself. In a sense, it is the act of striving itself that is great - irrespective of whether one wins or loses. It may be said that one who continues to forge on no matter what has already won as a human being.


THE words of Nichiren Daishonin represent guiding principles that have universal and eternal relevance. It is important to study the Gosho. And it is especially crucial that the members of the youth division gain a solid grounding in Buddhist study. The two ways of practice and study are important. A half-hearted attitude will not allow you to complete these two paths.


THERE is no more worthy cause than taking action for kosen-rufu. No one can surpass a person tenaciously carrying out activities for kosen-rufu. Absolutely nothing can defeat a noble champion of the spirit. Please be confident of this.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

26th October

PRESIDENT TODA said: “The ultimate fruit of our efforts will begin to appear from our 50s. No matter what your circumstances right now, live with joy and perseverance!” And specifically in his guidance to the women, he said: “True happiness will begin to blossom in your lives from your 40s onward.” Therefore, regardless of painful or trying your present situation, you must not be defeated. It is important to undergo many hardships during one’s youth.


MAKING a start is important in life. If we just spend our time prevaricating about taking our place on the stage of our mission, if we hesitate and run back into the wings, our lives will be lackluster and unfulfilling. Do you agree that it is far more satisfying and exhilarating to walk out intrepidly onto that stage, fired with resolve to do our best, to achieve something of value and to touch and inspire our audience?


IT is the present moment, what one does from now on, that counts. We must always live with our focus on the present and the future. We must continuously challenge the future from the vantage of the present. This is the Buddhism of the True Cause.


PEOPLE can see through the likes of cunning and deception. More importantly, such behaviour is judge by history. You must not be fooled by hypocrisy, deceit or fraud. If you let that happen, it is your own personal defeat. You will destroy the castle of good fortune in your life that you have striven so painstakingly to build.


LIFE is a continuous series of victories and defeat. Therefore, to crown your life with victory, you must first construct a firm foundation and then you will be able to brave any difficulty.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

25th October

GANDHI said: “Untruth corrodes the soul; truth nourishes it.” Deceit corrupts the spirit and fosters human misery. Truth enriches our spirit and fosters human happiness. That is why it is so important to thoroughly expose falsehoods and work to spread the truth.


GENUINE Buddhist dialogue is discussing such crucial matters as the true values of life, what is right and wrong, based on our daily lives and our personal experiences. This is the ultimate practice of humanism, and this is propagating Buddhism.


STRONG determination becomes the cause for great growth. The ‘seed’ of a truly penetrating determination will produce a ‘great tree’ that people will continue to gaze upon with admiration for centuries. We need to manifest such determination not sometime in the future, but right now. The present moment is the time to initiate our struggle.


TRUE courage is not found in short tempers; it lies in composed forbearance.


HE is most happy who embraces the sun of kuon ganjo within his life. Therefore, throughout the year, though the days may be overcast or stormy, never forget that you can let the sun within your heart sine brilliantly.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

24th October

IF spring is symbolic of vibrant activity, then autumn is the season of the mind; and if summer is the time of impassioned celebration, then winter must be the season of training. Thus, I have chosen to walk a path through the four seasons of life so as to live with infinite value.


PEOPLE who have experienced real hardship know how to look at, and discipline themselves. People who sit back nonchalantly and enjoy comfortable lives, whike making others do all the hard work, tend to lose sight of themselves and what is accepted as normal behaviour. Such people eventually miss their footing and go astray somewhere along the way.


VALIANT and courageous people do not regard defeating feeble adversaries as any achievement. Rather, they aspire to fighting and defeating powerful enemies. The stronger one’s opponent, the more vigourously one must fight to win. A true disciple of Nichiren Daishonin takes pride in waging such a struggle.


GONGYO and chanting daimoku represent a ceremony in which our lives commune with the universe. Gongyo is an activity in which, through our faith in the Gohonzon, we vigorously infuse the microcosm of our individual existence with the life force of the macrocosm, of the entire universe. If we do this regularly each morning and evening, our life force – our engine – is strengthened.


MR TODA once firmly instructed the Youth Division: “If the members all support the third president, kosen-rufu will surely be achieved.” If the SGI remains based on the spirit of the mentor and disciple that was share by the first, second and third presidents, its future triumph is assured. This is the sole source for the everlasting growth and development of our organisation. I would like to make this point absolutely clear for the sake of the future.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

23rd October

A skilled pilot must be able to guide the plane through turbulence in the atmosphere. In faith, if you are afraid of difficulties, then you cannot grow.


PRIDE – that is the pillar which supports the soul. It provides the resilience which to knock back oppression. It is a miserable existence to live subserviently, bereft of pride. What good is a religion if it only offers a life of slavery under those in power and authority? How much more so is this true for you, who as true disciples of Nichiren Daishonin are courageously living for the cause of kosen-rufu?


LIFE is eternal. If you devote yourself single-mindedly to propagating the Buddhist teachings, your days will bear golden fruits that will adorn your life throughout eternity. Nichiren Daishonin praised the children of the Buddha who pray and fight for the realisation of kosen-rufu, offering his protection. When you feel confident about this fact, you will be filled with immeasurable courage, hope and wisdom. You will be able to live cheerfully no matter what happens.


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


PUTTING the finishing touches on our lives is very important. When a plane lands, it gradually reduces its altitude but as we enter the final chapter of our lives, we should try to keep flying at the same high “spiritual altitude”, we should keep moving forward without reducing our “spiritual speed” – right up until our final moments.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

22nd October

I hope that as leaders you will show great sensitivity for people’s individual situations. At the same time, I want to remind you that no matter how adverse our individual predicament, we need to live out our lives based on steadfast faith. Only then can we accumulate all kinds of treasures in life as true benefit.


A genuine leader is one who springs to the aid of those who are suffering from the greatest pain and agony in an attempt to lead them to happiness.


HOPE is a far greater wealth than any other kind. There is no progress or victory for people, who possess everything else but lack hope and the strength to live. This cannot be called a human way of living, nor is it in which happiness can be found.


ONE’S faith is not determined by one’s position in the organization. A person who works hard to propagate Buddhism and offers strong prayers with all his or her heart will become an outstanding person.


SINCE our Buddhist practice takes place in the midst of our daily lives, it is all too easy for us to grow lazy and neglect it. So in that respect, there is perhaps no more difficult practice when it comes to continuing. Nonetheless, if we challenge ourselves to keep up a little bit each day, before we realise it we will have built a path to happiness in the depths of our lives; we will have established a solid embankment that will prevent our ever being swept away towards unhappiness.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

21st October

ALL sorts of things happen on the road to achieving kosen-rufu. Fellow members may pass away, having fulfilled their mission in this lifetime. It is only natural for us, as human beings, to be saddened by this. However, we must not allow ourselves to be so overwhelmed by our emotions that we become weak. The important thing is to continue moving forward with the determination: “Whatever happens, I will keep going! I will challenge myself! And I will win!”


ALTHOUGH victory is important, it is more important for one to construct a self which will not be defeated under any circumstances. The Buddha is called Nonin, one who can endure. Thus, young people must bear in mind the need to painstakingly build a foundation of endurance in the depths of their lives.


A person who can find enjoyment under any circumstances is indeed a happy person. Our Buddhist practice functions to allow us to do just that.


A fresh, invigorating spirit is the engine that drives our Buddhist practice. If we lose that spirit, we will cease to move forward; if we grow conceited and think we know it all, our lives will become polluted and stagnant. Even when studying the Buddhist teachings, we must persevere the lively spirit of questioning that constantly asks, “Why?”


IT is natural for prayers to centre on your own desires and dreams. There is no need to pretend that you are praying for something really lofty when you are not. You are only fooling yourself if you do. By chanting very naturally, without affectation or reservation for what you seek most of all, you will gradually come to develop a higher and more expansive life-condition.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

20th October

THE path to attaining Buddhahood or true happiness consists alone in chanting daimoku to the Dai-Gohonzon of the Three Great Secret Laws and carrying through with the practice of faith for oneself and others.


BEAUTY has value, and the creation of value is our practice. The basis of beauty is the beauty of the spirit, which is cultivated by faith.


THOSE who apply themselves to the study of the great philosophy of Buddhism are truly respectworthy. Those who study the Gosho each day, even if just a little, constantly invite the winds of change and growth into their lives – refreshing breezes that nourish and strengthen their faith. The writings of Nichiren Daishonin are truly profound. On each reading, there are new discoveries and new determinations made.


MARA represents our own inner weakness and negativity, which function to obstruct our Buddhist practice. We have both a weak self and a strong self; the two are completely different. If we allow our weak side to dominate, we will be defeated. The thought, “I am still young and have a lot of time, so I can relax and take life easy,” is the seductive whispering of Mara, a function of our own weakness.


LIFE is a struggle. Buddhism is a struggle. Only by surmounting great suffering can we appreciate life's depth and joy. That is why we must continue to move forward. We must take action. This is what the philosophers of the world teach.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

19th October

IT is important that our prayers be specific and concrete. Being vague and unfocused when you chant is like shooting an arrow without looking at the target. When you chant, it should be with a strong and passionate resolve to make your prayer a reality. To have the attitude, "If I chant, everything will be all right" is just wishful thinking. Earnest prayer - prayer infused with one's whole heart and being - cannot fail to be communicated to the Gohonzon.


IF you become a leader while you are still young, it is important to listen to the opinions of your seniors. Conversely, if you become a leader when you are already along in years, you must listen to the opinions of those who are younger than you.


IN human relations, we can respond in a way that is sensitive to the feelings of others. If we find someone worrying about something, we go to help without a second thought. In my opinion, a person with the antenna sensitive and receptive to feelings, to beauty, is a truly beautiful person.


THE law of cause and effect in Buddhism is very precise; no good cause you make is wasted. You will reap the full reward of all your efforts for kosen-rufu. Herein lies the inscrutable and mysterious nature of the Mystic Law. As you expand the flow of kosen-rufu, the good fortune and benefit in your lives will increase in direct proportion.


WHAT kind of person demonstrates true human greatness and nobility? It is someone who, no matter what happens, works single-mindedly for kosen-rufu without wavering in the least, and without moaning or complaining. This is what the Gosho teaches. It is also the way of life expounded in the Lotus Sutra.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

18th October

OUR organization of faith, the SGI, serves as a bulwark against evil and negative influences. Practising together in an organisation enables us to advance unswervingly on the correct path towards a firm and certain goal and to achieve personal development and growth through supporting, encouraging and inspiring each other. This is why having an organisation is so important. It is also why organisations exist in all societies and in all areas of human endeavour.


OF course, it is possible to get by in life without practicing Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism. But sometimes we are confronted by karma over which we seem to have no control, or are buffeted about because of our own inner weakness. What a tragic loss it would be if we could never change ourselves, if we could never exclaim confidently at the end of our days what a wonderful life we have led. That is precisely why a solid guiding philosophy in life is so essential.


THOSE who lived true to their convictions are strong. Even if at one time it may appear that they have lost, in the end they will shine with human victory. The character and integrity of those who live based on their convictions shine. They can clearly distinguish what is good and what is evil, and advance unerringly on their chosen path in life.


THIS is what I think. A smile is not only the result of happiness; it is also its cause. Whatever might happen, bravely transcend your own weakness and make a gentle smile. In the garden of such a strong and rich heart, the fragrant flowers of happiness in life bloom.


THERE may be many problems and sufferings in your lives, but I hope that you will challenge them, remembering that “difficulties are the greatest education”. This kind of challenge enables you to polish yourself and develop your virtues, which will in turn help your children grow splendidly.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

17th October

THE Mystic Law enables us to change poison into medicine. Through its power, a person can turn poverty into affluence and illness into strong health. Anyone can bring his/her life to shine in brilliant splendour. In this process, we are able to carry out our human revolution and ultimately realise a safe and peaceful society.


DAIMOKU charges our batteries. If we take care to regularly charge our batteries, then we'll always be full of energy and vitality. If we fail to keep our batteries charged, we won't have energy when we need it most and as a result may be defeated by our environment.


IN the struggle of life, those who continue fighting to the last are true victors. Those who give up and run away in the middle of something do injury to their own hearts and lives. Such people cannot possibly enjoy a profound sense of fulfilment in the end, or become truly happy. This is all the more true in Buddhism, which is concerned with victory or defeat.


THE husband is not the centre of the relationship, nor is the wife. It is not a question of who is the leader or who must make himself or herself a sacrifice for the other’s success and happiness. Just as a song is a marriage of music and lyrics, husband and wife are equal individuals who, at the same time, perform a single melody of life together. What is important, I think, is how beautiful a song those two life partners can create together.


WE must never underestimate the importance of people in our activities for kosen-rufu. The crucial point is to foster younger members so that they will become even more capable people than us.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

16th October

YOU cannot judge a person's character simply on the basis of his/her position or appearance. Rather there are often many talented people among those who labour silently in the background.


FOR better or for worse, a person’s entire life reaches its culmination at the time of death. Will those last moments of our final accounting be adorned with a victory of song of life shining as glorious as the sun? Or will it be an end as full of suffering as if you were fleeing into terrifying darkness, pursued by wild beasts that you cannot escape? We cannot fool death. Once you know of the inexorable law of cause and effect, you cannot help but realize how important strong and truthful words are when it comes to matters of faith.


THE doctrine of a single moment of life containing three thousand realms (ichinen sanzen) explains the wondrous workings of one’s mind, or determination. The power of the mind is limitless. It is faith that enables us to tap this power. Faith, therefore, is eternal hope; it is boundless aspiration.


AT any rate, if you truly want to transform your state of life, then you have to put every ounce of strength you have got into it. There is no way you can transform your state of life if your practice is half-hearted. Painful though it may be, it is only by struggling to thoroughly polish and temper your life that you can attain a state of life of great joy.


LET us also resolutely encourage, train, and wholeheartedly foster the Youth Division and Future Division members, who are our successors. Let us together pledge to solidly construct new strongholds of capable people dedicated to kosen-rufu in each region, always maintaining a spirit of mutual respect and advancing together in harmonious unity.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

15th October

ALTHOUGH idealism is very important, idealism without a balance touch of realism cannot bring victory in the struggles of real life. On the other hand, a reality bereft of ideas will quickly sink into mere ugliness.


A profound ideal makes for a profound life, and a great goal makes for a great man. A life without an ideal, a goal, may lack any effort of difficulty, and there is no joy of improvement either. All that there is, is a sad and empty self.


A change in our determination first produces a change in the inner reaches of our life; it enables us to manifest qualities of excellent health, abundant strength and boundless wisdom. A life that has been transformed in this way will lead others in the direction of happiness, and be committed to vanquishing evil.


ONLY Buddhism solves the fundamental sufferings of birth, old age, sickness and death inherent in the human condition. These sufferings have remained essentially unchanged throughout the course of human history, plaguing the ancient Egyptians as mush as they do to us in our scientifically advanced world today. One of the reasons why people around the world are seeking Buddhism so earnestly is that it solves the question of life and death.


THE new century is one in which the wisdom of women will truly shine. It is the century in which women will stand up to play an increasingly active role. And those organisations, companies and nations where women are able to speak out freely on any subject and dynamically actualise their potential will experience growth and prosperity.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

14th October

IF, in our greatest endeavour to promote this great people’s movement for kosen-rufu, you behave as if everything is a joke or strut about with self-centred arrogance, you will destroy the noble realm of Buddhism. If you forget the demanding practice of faith and just seek to enjoy an easy, indolent life, hellish suffering is bound to await you down the line. Nichiren Daishonin sternly warned us of this in his writings.


WE must not allow ourselves to become self-absorbed and insensitive to those around us. No one is an island. We live surrounded by our family, our friends and the rest of the world. We are all connected. The key is to display our individuality within that web of relationship. True individuality is not self-centred. It is a away of life, a way of being, that leads both ourselves and others in a positive direction on the most natural ways.


DAY in and day out, we are exerting ourselves for kosen-rufu. For this is what Nichiren Daishonin taught his followers to do. By ceaselessly pressing forward and taking courageous actions, we can cultivate the supreme state of life of Buddhahood. There is no greater happiness than attaining Buddhahood. No effort is more laden with value than our Buddhist practice. This is the teaching of the Daishonin. Benefit will well forth in our life only to the extent that we take joyful action, firm in this conviction.


DEATH – that is the great final accounting of each life. Fame, wealth, rank, learning – all are of no avail of themselves in the face of death. We shed such vain ornaments and, naked, fight the battle of life itself. It is a solemn moment when victory and defeat are impartially determined. If you win this battle, you are a true victor.


IF you do nothing but fret and sigh because of a setback on one front of life, this can end up bringing your whole life down in defeat. A defeat is the time to build up your energies; you must make defeat the stepping-off point for the victories that will follow.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

13th October

BUDDHISM teaches the oneness of birth and death. It is important that we bring our lives to a magnificent close, just like the setting sun paints the sky in majestic crimson hues.


TO take the initiative to go where the circumstances are most difficult, to be the first to take on the most arduous tasks. Those who live with a dedicated commitment to faith, to kosen-rufu and to their self-realisation are true champions in life.


OUR faith exists so that we may attain lifelong and eternal happiness. Those who put on airs and try to appear better than they really are in their youth, no matter how impressive they appear on the surface, will only see their good fortune disappear as they advance in years. The pursuit of mere vanity does not lead to happiness. In contrast, those who wholeheartedly devote themselves to their Buddhist practice by participating in SGI activities are building and solidifying the foundation for their good fortune throughout the three existences of past, present and future.


MANY want worldly greatness but few are determined to be great human beings. Many want praises and attention of other people but few try to establish the happiness throughout the three existences that will not fade even at the moment of death.


EVEN though one may embrace the Gohonzon, if he/she lacks faith, his/her prayers will not be answered and no benefit will be forthcoming.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

12th October

WITH all your efforts in the practice of faith, you will accumulate an infinite amount of good fortune. Due to the fortune stored in your life, you will definitely be able to overcome even the greatest obstacles.


IF you can open the kingdom of the spirit inside yourself, you are a king wherever you may be. You will be able to savour the delicious nectar of life, profound and inexhaustible.


FULFILMENT does not come from doing things because someone tells us to. True fulfilment lies in creating a goal for ourselves, and then daring to challenge difficulties in seeing it through to completion. We must continue to make tenacious efforts. In the course of this process, we will experience a great blossoming in our ability and character.


THE eternal life of the universe exists within each of us. The Gohonzon resides within each of us. Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism is a philosophy of utmost respect for human beings and for life. Nichiren Daishonin embodied the essence of his own life in the form of the Gohonzon to make it possible for us to summon forth the Gohonzon that exists within our lives.


NICHIREN DAISHONIN wished for happiness and peace for all people of the ten thousand years and more of the Latter Day. He envisioned the widespread propagation of the Mystic Law throughout the entire world. This Buddhism transcends the narrow confines of a single sect or school and is open to all humanity; it is a human religion, a universal religion.

NOTE: New! Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

11th October

IF you maintain your faith in the Gohonzon until the last moment of your life, you will be able to escape the darkness of sorrow and enjoy the highest possible condition even in the phase of death.


DESIRES know no limits, and as long as people remain committed to their own interests first, there is no way that the desires of all can be completely fulfilled. Of course it is right and appropriate to work for changes that improve our environment and our situation. But more important than that is to bravely guard the place you are now, your own personal fortress. You must carry your duties in your present position thoroughly and thereby create your very own future.


BUDDHISM stresses the importance of the present and the future. Its focus is from the present towards to the future, from today onwards. There is no need to dwell on the past. We should simply continue advancing ahead with our sights on the future. As long as we live with such in invigorated, youthful spirit, the sun will always continue shining brightly.


IT is important to want to sit before the Gohonzon as though going to meet the original Buddha, Nichiren Daishonin, and that the daimoku and gongyo to be enjoyable. Bearing both these points in mind, what's most important is that you continue in your Buddhist practice throughout life. There's no need to be overly concerned with formality.


AS youth, it is important that you devote yourself earnestly and sincerely to kosen-rufu, whether others are watching your efforts or not. Please cast aside airs and pretension. Putting on airs is pathetic playacting. With pretence, you cannot help others. You cannot even make yourself happy. Nichiren Daishonin wrote, “Rely on the Law and not on persons.” (WND, p872) The important thing is that we devote our lives to the Mystic Law.

NOTE: New! Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

10th October

THERE are members and friends who are suffering. We need to reach out to them with words of support and encouragement. It is important to respond immediately to the issues before us. Remaining silent is foolish, lacking in compassion, and leads to defeat.


IT is our human revolution – changing from someone who is buffeted about by the environment, to someone who can positively influence their surroundings – that enables us to construct an unshakeable palace within.


IT is in times of adversity that one’s spirit must blaze. It is in times of adversity that one must fight with courage. This is the way of the lion. Even if they are many in number, cowardly people who are quick to start complaining cannot do anything. When one is faced with the most difficult of circumstances, one can make the cause to realize the greatest victory.


PEOPLE who live a life devoted to friendship deserve our admiration. It is the sign of their sincerity and the mark of a lofty character. There is no one more despicable than one who forgets his friends as time passes and things change, and lose his integrity. In our world, the bonds between members are cemented by faith. I am convinced that there is no more elevated friendship, nor one stronger or more beautiful.


IN the world of the Mystic Law, no one is without a mission. Give capable persons the appropriate responsibility, so as to enable them to give their best. Never forget that we can see good in others when we give them a chance to show their ability.

NOTE: New! Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

9th October

“ONE’S voice does the Buddha’s work.” (Gosho Zenshu, p708) Our voice can served as a jeweled sword for cutting down evil and corruption, or it can express warm, heartfelt encouragement. The voice that does the Buddha’s work is not merely your physical voice, either; it is also the words we write in proclaiming and defending the truth.


NO matter what happens, the important thing is to continue chanting. If you do so, you will definitely become happy. Even if things are not solved in the ways you had initially hoped or imagined, when you look back later, you will understand on a much more profound level that it was the best possible result. This in itself is tremendous inconspicuous benefit.


BUDDHISM is the excellent medicine that heals the wounds of human karma and suffering. There are no deadlocks in faith. We encounter problems and hardship so that we may grow and mature. We experience grief and sadness so that we may savour greater happiness. In the realm of Buddhism, even that which already seems to have improved will continue to become even harder. When we think we have reached the highest limit, we go higher still. This is the Mystic Law.


WHETHER or not anyone knows it or sees it, I am determined to watch over you for my entire life – no, for all eternity. I want to spend my whole life protecting you and fighting for you. This is my commitment, this is my pledge.


CONTACTING and reporting are the nerves of the organization because rapid and accurate communication, with which we can protect our members, will bring about our victory.

NOTE: New! Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

8th October

WHAT matters most is whether or not, at the end of your life, you can enjoy a peaceful and unbounded condition which enables you to say with confidence that you have left nothing undone and have not a single regret, that you have won in life and are filled with the deepest possible satisfaction – the proof of attaining Buddhahood in this lifetime.


THERE is no one as happy as one who has engraved a link with his teacher in his heart. There is no way of life more praiseworthy than fulfilling your vows to your teacher. This is my own true and incontrovertible conviction as one who has embraced Mr Toda as his teacher in life.


THOSE who work hard and undergo many painful struggles grow and develop. They triumph in the end. Only through hardship are brilliant “gems” forged. Young people have the energy to give their all. When we give our all to the issues before us, we can forge character and build a firm and unshakeable life.


EACH of you is infinitely precious. Therefore, please treat yourself with utmost respect. Please do not follow a path that will cause you suffering but take the road that is best for your well-being. Only a person whose spirit has been tempered and enlightened through long and varied struggles in the course of his daily life can be said to possess real youthfulness and inner fortitude.


THE truly great do not seek greatness for themselves; they seek to enable others to realise greatness. It is the responsibility of seniors to protect and work for the welfare of their juniors, and to foster them into people even more capable than themselves.

NOTE: New! Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, Persecution by Sword and Staff.

7th October

THE Gohonzon is endowed with the limitless and absolute powers of the Buddha and the Law, but we receive them according to our powers of faith and practice. Thus, pure strong faith is essential.


THOUGH you may not be blessed with material wealth in your youth, you should not be the least bit ashamed. On the contrary, this should be a source of pride. The true misfortune would be too richly blessed and lose any ambition to succeed, becoming a spiritless young man with an old man's heart.


IT is vital to strive towards the goals we have set ourselves, whether anyone praises us or knows about our efforts or not. Buddhism teaches the principle of "invisible observance". In other words, when we live in this way, the Buddhas and bodhisattvas throughout the universe "observe" all our actions and work to protect us.


ONLY by polishing yourself through repeated difficulties can you build a self that sparkles as brightly as a gem. Once you have developed such a system of life, nothing will faze you.


IT is not up to others; it all comes down to us. Our inner resolve and our actions have an influence more powerful than a book of a million words. Through taking action, we will also feel a sense of purpose and savour joy and good fortune.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, A Gift of Rice.

6th October

NICHIREN DAISHONIN said: “The realm of the environment also arises from this single law of life.” (Gosho Zenshu, p 563) As the principle of “three thousand realms in a single life moment” (ichinen sanzen) teaches, the power to transform society lies in the fundamental attitude or inner resolve of human beings.


OUR gongyo and daimoku should not be too fast nor too slow. It should also not be too loud or too soft, and it should have a good, vigourous rhythm. The speed of gongyo also often depends on such things as a person’s age or the time and place. So do not worry too much about speed. Just do gongyo in the way that seems most natural and comfortable to you. One of my seniors said we should do gongyo with the rhythm of a galloping horse.


DAILY life and living are themselves a battle. Do you win or do you lose? The outcome is not always determined by how much experience or ability you may have. What is most important is to decide that you will win, and then pray sincerely with all your might, bringing forth great wisdom and making every effort to accomplish your goal.


IT is vital that you find your own path, your own mission and your own ideals to which to dedicate your entire being. This is what it means to be young and to live without a single cause for regret. I cannot emphasise strongly enough just how important it is to live your youth to the fullest, since it only comes but once.


IN any endeavour, pioneers are subject to criticism. They will prove the value of their efforts as they withstand such criticism. Therefore, you should not become the kind of people who can be defeated by small obstacles or difficulties. You should never be so foolish as to backslide in your faith, complain or begin to criticise our movement when you meet a severe problem.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, A Gift of Rice.

5th October

YOUNG people should not be too easy on themselves because that is the path to ruin. Cast aside your dependency! There is no way but to stand up in faith through your own efforts. With your sincere and persistent prayers, please touch the lives of all around you – friends and opponents alike – and create a grand alliance of the people and a powerful new ground swell for kosen-rufu.


IN Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism, it is said that no prayer goes unanswered. But this is very different from having every wish instantly gratified, as if by magic. If you chant to win the lottery tomorrow, or to score 100 percent on a test without having studied, the odds are very small that it will happen. Nonetheless, viewed from a deeper, longer-term perspective, all your prayers will have served to propel you in the direction of happiness.


WITHOUT training, there is no growth. Nichiren Daishonin stated: “Iron, when heated in flames and pounded, becomes a fine sword. Wise men and saints are tested by abuse.” (MW1, p 38) It is because of ordeals and discipline that one can carry out one’s human revolution. The present is an age lacking in discipline. For precisely this reason, one must voluntarily receive training and forge oneself through and through. Those who do so will in the end be victorious.


IN any struggle, victory depends on being able to display unique creativity and to open up new fields of activity; in essence, it depends on the demonstration of genuine wisdom. Mere knowledge can provide neither fresh perspective nor an inexhaustible source of initiative.


WHAT makes a man truly human is, I believe, his ability to act not only for his own sake but for the sake of his neighbours, society and the entire human race.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, A Gift of Rice.

4th October

A Buddha is one who dauntlessly takes action for the people’s happiness, who resolutely strives for the welfare of humanity, while enduring a storm of obstacles and persecution. Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism fosters such individuals.


BECAUSE we are common mortals, we may suffer from many pains and troubles. However, no matter what your situation may be, you were born into this world in accordance with your vows. So, please be aware of your own mission and accomplish it no matter what.


AT the most profound level, our daily practice of performing gongyo and chanting daimoku morning and evening is a ceremony which brings forth fresh life force, as our lives fuse with the Mystic Law. It is also the great road that will lead you to your highest path. From the perspective of Buddhism, you will find life functions dynamically, without cessation for even an instant.


THE mind wavers. Therefore, as long as you base yourself on your own mind, as long as you allow your mind to be your master, your life will be one of confusion and uncertainty. If you based on unwavering mastery of your mind, then you will never be at a loss for what to do. Herein lies the greatness of the path of mentor and disciple based on the Mystic Law.


A famous saying by the Russian writer Leo Tolstoy (1828-1910) is: “Suffering is the necessary condition for spiritual and physical growth.” Experiencing various trials and problems leads to personal growth and to the polishing of our character. In particular, all of our challenges and exertions in working to realise kosen-rufu make our lives sparkle like gemstones. This is the principle of Buddhism.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, A Gift of Rice.

3rd October

WE have a tendency to want to know even a little of what the future holds. But, being common mortals, we only know what is immediately before us. However, the vision of the Buddha perfectly penetrates the three existences. There is no way that the prayer of a person of strong faith will not be answered.


FAITH in Buddhism is not an abstract concept separate from day-to-day reality. Our faith directly affects every aspect of our daily lives, from our beliefs about ourselves, our relationships with friends and family, to our contributions in society. Through faith, we gain the courage to take action and become experts at living. Those who show care and compassion to others, strive to excel at work and contribute to their communities show themselves to be people of genuine faith. Without such action, our faith becomes a mere formality.


YOU reveal your true potential when you wage an earnest struggle. It is “ichinen to fight,” or “the state of life to continue struggling” that makes you shine. Under any circumstances, you must have the courage to advance with composure along your chosen path and to splendidly construct your castle.


IN a certain sense, here is no simpler Buddhist practice than doing gongyo and chanting daimoku. We do not have to undertake strange austerities as in some esoteric Buddhist traditions. With machinery, too, the more sophisticated the technology, the greater the ease of operation and use. Similarly, the very superiority of Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism enables us to reach the life state of Buddhahood through the very simplest form of practice.


FOUNDING President Makiguchi once said: “We are trying to faithfully carry out Nichiren Daishonin’s decree, so what could possibly be holding you back? Buddhism is not an intellectual game. Its purpose is to liberate the land and the people from suffering. To stand by with folded arms and fail to do so when the time arises is to betray the Buddha’s intent.”

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, A Gift of Rice.

2nd October

THE SGI seeks to enable all people to realise genuine, indestructible happiness, not only those who are obviously suffering, but also those who are leading what appear to be happy and enjoyable lives. That is because, no matter how happy a person may think he is, there is no greater happiness than practising Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism. As the Daishonin said, “There is no true happiness for human beings other than chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo.” (WND, p681)


A drop of rain from the sky, a drop of water from the ocean is all just that: a drop of water. The friends in our own small circle contribute to the spread of friendship around the world. Our individual circle of friendship is part of the global circle of friendship; it is one and the same. Making one true friend is a step towards creating world peace.


IF we “let our minds master us”, our faith will be destroyed. There are far too many who give themselves up to fame and status, get taken in by desire for money, or are swayed by concern for maintaining a good reputation, and accordingly lose sight of the fundamental path of faith. Faith is what enables us to “become the master of our minds”, or to control ourselves, and open up the future with the determination that everything begins from now.


ONE encounter spawns another. A new path is opened. The value of encounters is not easy to measure. In particular, Buddhism teaches that there are no accidents. Every event has a meaning, and all is an expression of the profound workings of cause and effect. That is why I value encounters. I never speak loosely or thoughtlessly with anyone I meet. I have always engaged others in dialogue with the greatest sincerity and earnestness. I believe that is the way to a meaningful and serious life.


A humble person is usually composed while an arrogant person is often impatient. A composed person can assess things correctly while a person in a hurry always see things in a distorted way.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, A Gift of Rice.

1st October

RAISING capable people is not something achieved through intellectualising or daydreaming. Second SGI President Josei Toda, too, always made a concerted effort to meet people. The Soka spirit is found nowhere but in our efforts to meet with and sincerely encourage each person and to advance together with them towards kosen-rufu.


IT is important to remember that your worth as a person is not based on your profession. It is not based on wealth, fame or academic credentials. What counts is how much you have striven in your chosen path, how much good you have accomplished, how earnestly you have devoted your energies to it. It is your spirit of devotion, your sincerity that determines your true worth. For that reason, our individuality constitutes the basis for leading a life of dignity and meaning as a human being.


WHEN you begin an undertaking, first decide that you will definitely win in the end, and then proceed towards your goal firmly and cheerfully. You must not be cowardly. It is important to advance with an optimistic and tenacious spirit.


A strong, deep conviction is the fundamental source of the strength needed for life. A person with conviction has no complains. He has hopes. He is always cheerful. And he gives hope to others as well. His life unfolds fully and expansively.


THOSE who praise and propagate the Great Law are people of wisdom who can give eternal happiness to others and who already possess eternal good fortune and good causes in themselves.

NOTE: Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, A Gift of Rice.