Supplement : On Repaying Debts of Gratitude

Key Concepts:

Nichiren Daishonin’s Compassion: In his writing "On Repaying Debts of Gratitude," Nichiren Daishonin expresses the immense compassion that drives his mission to spread Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. He emphasizes that this teaching has the power to open the "blind eyes" of people, guiding them away from the path of suffering and towards enlightenment.

Three Virtues of Nichiren Daishonin: Nichiren Daishonin embodies the three virtues of a parent, teacher, and sovereign. These virtues represent his role in nurturing, guiding, and protecting all people to help them achieve enlightenment.

Nichiren’s compassion is not passive; it is an active force that drives him to spread the teachings of the Lotus Sutra despite the challenges and persecutions he faces. He views the spread of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo as essential to saving people from suffering and leading them to enlightenment.

Gosho Passage Explanation : 

1. Nichiren writes: "If Nichiren's compassion is truly great and encompassing, Nam-myoho-renge-kyo will spread for ten thousand years and more for all eternity. For it has the beneficial power to open the blind eyes of every living being in the country of Japan and it blocks off the road that leads to the hell of incessant suffering."

2. This passage emphasizes the timeless and universal power of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. Nichiren’s confidence in the enduring relevance and effectiveness of this teaching is rooted in his deep compassion for all beings. He believes that by embracing Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, people can overcome ignorance and avoid the suffering that comes from misguided beliefs and actions.

Example 1: Compassion in Action: Consider a doctor who tirelessly works to find a cure for a disease, not only treating patients but also educating them on how to prevent illness. Similarly, Nichiren’s compassion is active, involving both the spread of the teachings and the protection of people from spiritual harm.

Example 2: Guiding the Blind: Imagine a teacher who helps students see the truth in a situation where they have been misled. Nichiren’s role as a teacher is to guide people away from ignorance, helping them see the true nature of life through the lens of the Lotus Sutra.

The Importance of Repaying Debts of Gratitude

Key Concepts:

1. Repaying Gratitude to the Buddha: Nichiren Daishonin teaches that the highest form of repaying one’s debt of gratitude to the Buddha is to propagate the Lotus Sutra. This act is seen as the most profound way to honor the Buddha’s compassion and dedication to leading all beings to enlightenment.

2. Kosen-rufu: The widespread propagation of the Lotus Sutra, known as kosen-rufu, is central to Nichiren Buddhism. This mission is not just about spreading teachings but about transforming society by helping individuals realize their Buddha nature.

Example 1: Fulfilling a Teacher’s Wish: Imagine a student who excels and goes on to teach others, thereby continuing their teacher’s legacy. In a similar way, Nichiren’s followers repay their debt of gratitude to the Buddha by spreading the teachings that lead to enlightenment.

Example 2: Spreading Light: Consider how a single candle can light many others without diminishing its own flame. Nichiren’s concept of kosen-rufu is like this: by spreading the light of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, individuals can help others awaken to their potential, leading to a brighter and more harmonious society.

The Daishonin’s Struggle and the Soka Gakkai’s Mission

Key Concepts:

1. Nichiren’s Struggle: Nichiren Daishonin’s life was marked by constant struggle against the social and religious authorities of his time, who opposed his teachings. Despite facing persecution, he remained committed to his mission of spreading the Lotus Sutra, believing that his efforts would lead to the enlightenment of all people.

2. The Soka Gakkai’s Role: The Soka Gakkai, a modern Buddhist organization, views itself as the inheritor of Nichiren Daishonin’s mission. It is dedicated to achieving kosen-rufu by empowering individuals through the teachings of Nichiren Buddhism.

Example 1: Carrying the Torch: Imagine a relay race where each runner hands off the baton to the next, ensuring that the race continues. The Soka Gakkai sees itself as continuing the race started by Nichiren Daishonin, carrying forward his mission of spreading the Lotus Sutra to create a peaceful and just world.

Example 2: Overcoming Adversity: Consider a leader who, despite facing severe opposition, continues to advocate for a just cause, inspiring others to join the struggle. Nichiren’s unyielding dedication serves as a powerful example for the Soka Gakkai’s efforts to achieve kosen-rufu in the modern world.

The Vision of Kosen-rufu and the Eternal Mission

Key Concepts:

1. Eternal Mission of Kosen-rufu: Nichiren Daishonin’s vision of kosen-rufu extends far beyond his own lifetime. He believed that the widespread propagation of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo would continue for ten thousand years and beyond, leading to a world where all people could live in peace and happiness.

2. The Soka Gakkai’s Commitment: The Soka Gakkai is committed to realizing Nichiren’s vision of kosen-rufu by spreading the teachings of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo and helping individuals transform their lives. This mission is seen as a continuation of Nichiren’s work and is central to the organization’s activities.

Example 1- A Vision for the Future: Imagine a tree that grows and flourishes, spreading its seeds far and wide, creating a forest. Nichiren’s vision of kosen-rufu is like this tree, with the teachings of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo spreading across the world and taking root in the hearts of people, leading to a global transformation.

Example 2- Lifelong Commitment: Consider someone who dedicates their life to a cause, knowing that their efforts will continue to bear fruit long after they are gone. The Soka Gakkai’s commitment to kosen-rufu reflects this enduring dedication, as members work tirelessly to realize Nichiren’s vision of a peaceful and just world.

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