All the answers to the most common questions from those starting the Soka Gakkai Buddhist practice.
Eight centuries ago – on April 28, 1253 – Nichiren Daishonin, a Japanese monk, recited Nam Myoho Renge Kyo for the first time, an teaching whose main purpose is to lead people towards authentic happiness. His disciples constantly asked him questions, driven by the desire to clarify their convictions and strengthen their faith. The Daishonin warmly encouraged such a spirit of inquiry; this tradition of questions and insights continues today within the Soka Gakkai. You too may have questions about the practice and its purpose, about why we chant or why it is so important to attend meetings and, most importantly, what authentic and lasting happiness is. Soka Gakkai International President Daisaku Ikeda believes that the first steps in practice are crucial. He states: "If you can do things correctly from the beginning, you will be able to continue doing so." This small and practical book aims to provide answers to the most frequent questions, both for those who are about to begin their journey of faith and for those who are already on their way.
«Each of us, regardless of the difficulties we encounter or the circumstances in which we find ourselves, has a noble and unique mission to fulfill. When we deeply realize this, everything changes. We were born into this world, at this time, to fulfill the great vow we made in the distant past. Our karma is our mission; it is the stage on which we perform the magnificent spectacle in which adversities are transformed into victories.» – Daisaku Ikeda
TOPICS COVERED:
- Nam Myoho Renge Kyo
- Prayer
- The Gohonzon
- Practice
- Enlightenment and Buddhahood
- Mentor and disciple
- The Soka Gakkai
- Mission and vow
