About the Buddhism of Nichiren

Note: Please pardon the dust while things are moving around.

These teachings are based on those of the Lotus Sutra, the title of which alone, according to Nichiren, contains the essence of all the Buddhist teachings and the correct path to attaining enlightenment. The practice advocated by Nichiren consists in reciting the formula, "Nam myoho renge-kyo."

Goshos: The Major Writings of Nichiren
These letters and treatises collected in English as The Major Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, are among the primary study materials for his disciples.

The Record of the Orally Transmitted Teachings
Excerpts from the Gosho Zenshu compiled from a variety of disparate sources.

The Lotus Sutra
A collection of materials for studying Shakyamuni Buddha's highest teaching.

The Practice of Gongyo
The Japanese word "Gongyo" literally means "assiduous practice." Generally speaking it means to recite Buddhist sutras in front of an object of worship.  In the practice of Nichiren Buddhism it means reciting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, and part of the second chapter "Hoben" and the entire sixteenth "Juryo" chapter of the Lotus Sutra in front of the Gohonzon. This is the fundamental practice of Nichiren Buddhism, which is performed morning and evening.

The Liturgy of Nichiren Daishonin
The portions of the Hoben (2nd) and Juryo (16th) Chapters of the Lotus Sutra recited in the practice of Gongyo. PDF or Html Version.
See also the literal translations of these sections.

The Meaning of Gongyo
The eternal life of the Buddha, which is itself the Law, is embodied in the Gohonzon. When we recite the Hoben (2nd) and Juryo (16th) Chapters of the Lotus Sutra and chant daimoku, the Buddha's life-state is realized from within our own being, leading us also to eternal Buddhahood.

The Origins of Gongyo
While Nichiren Daishonin emphasized the importance of daily reciting the "Hoben" and "Juryo" chapters, he never mentioned a specific format. Over the centuries, the format of Gongyo has changed several times. This describes those changes from the Daishonin's day to the present, to the extent that they are known.

About the Object of Worship - The Gohonzon
An explanation of the object of worship to be revered.

See Also:

The Significance and Meaning of the Juzu Beads
A historical perspective on the origins and significance of Juzu in Buddhist practices.

Care and Enshrinement of The Gohonzon
Coming Soon: A brief tutorial on the proper care and enshrinement of the Gohonzon.

The Life of Nichiren Daishonin
Selected chapters from the paperback.

Designed by Will Kallander