Experienced chanting the daimoku 10,000 times 495 times: My husband and I have started reading the writings of Nichiren Daishonin together.
Posted by 島幸弘
I reread the New Edition of the Complete Writings of Nichiren Daishonin (Preface)
After finishing the reading of the Kanjin Honzon Sho, I reread the preface to the Complete Collection of Gosho.
Excerpted from the Complete Works of Nichiren Daishonin, New Edition (Preface).
We, Soka Gakkai, will forever walk the great path that is based on the Gosho (page 1). Because the Gosho is the basis, we respect the diversity of "cherry, plum, peach, and plum," respect one another as if they were Buddhas, and accomplish all things through the unity of "diverse bodies but united minds."
Because it is based on the Gosho, it shines forth the great light of limitless value creation towards "dignity and equality of life," "happiness and tranquility for the people," and "peace and coexistence in the global community."
In his "Publication Address" for the Soka Gakkai edition of the Complete Works of Nichiren Daishonin's Writings, second president Toda Josei quoted the concluding sentence of Shoho Jisso Sho: "We must strive to pursue the two paths of practice and study. Without practice and study, there can be no Buddhism. You should teach others as well as yourself. Practice and study should come from faith. If you have the strength, please speak even of a single sentence or phrase." This was nothing less than a declaration that, in accordance with Nichiren Daishonin's instructions, they would of course study the Gosho, but above all else, they would practice, speak, and spread it. (Page 2)
The Gosho has been translated into over ten languages. Today, not only in Japan but in the five continents of the world, it is commonplace to see people of all ages and genders joyfully studying the Gosho and encouraging one another. It is read widely, transcending civilization, nationality, race, ethnicity, culture and language, and is being put into action in homes, communities and societies, spreading the solidarity of good global citizens.
I am convinced that this is a great proof of the universality and validity of Nichiren Buddhism, because one of the common characteristics of world religions is that they base their faith on the sacred scriptures, take pride in them, and make them the foundation of their faith.
It is a common sight to see people of all ages and genders joyfully studying the Gosho and encouraging each other.
If that is the case, then my reading of the Gosho by myself continues to be meaningful as always, but if I think about it further, I see that there are new opportunities and challenges!
The reading begins with one person, then the two of them start reading aloud to each other.
The spirit of one standing alone, one standing alone will not stand, but three will continue. I have decided to continue with the ``New Edition of Nichiren Daishonin's Writings: Reading the Complete Text'' as it is!
When I said this to my wife, she nodded in agreement, saying, "Why don't you and I use the precious time after morning devotion to recite the Gosho? I think there is deep meaning in even just reciting the Gosho together, even for a short time."
It was a wonderfully moving moment there!
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