I bring fullness and satisfaction to the world, like a rain that spreads its moisture everywhere. Eminent and lowly, superior and inferior, observers of precepts, violators of precepts, those fully endowed with proper demeanor, those not fully endowed, those of … Read More
In the threefold world, there is neither birth nor death, or going away nor coming forth, and there is no existing in this world and later entering extinction. Chapter 16 of The Lotus Sutra, The Life Span of the Buddha … Read More
This threefold world is all my domain, and the living beings in it are all my children. Chapter 3 of the Lotus Sutra, A Parable The Buddha said in the Lotus Sutra that every living being is a part of … Read More
Q. A friend of mine is trying to take the Bar Exam. I am thinking I should pray for him to perform well. What kind of prayer should I make? A. I would recommend inviting your friend to the temple … Read More
Q. Someone told me that we should not take pictures of Gohonzons. Could you explain why? A. Shortly after entering the priesthood, I wondered the same thing myself. I was told that taking pictures of the Gohonzon is rude, though … Read More
Q. How do we deal with loved ones who don’t treat us well? A. Human relationships can be quite difficult at times. Despite this reality, HBS members often have the best of human relationships. When we chant the Odaimoku and … Read More
Q. I know chanting Odaimoku is the most important part of the practice. Is there anything else you could suggest, such as an added prayer? (Questioned by a non-HBS-member American man) A. You can make prayers for anything you want … Read More
Q. Do you recommend that I chant directly to a wall? It’s a bit awkward with no Gohonzon at the moment, but I thought I’d ask your advice. A. Before acquiring a Gohonzon (upon your conversion), you can chant Odaimoku … Read More
Q. Should Odaimoku be pronounced Namu Myōhō Renge Kyō when I chant? A. No, you do not have to chant it this particular way. When you chant Odaimoku, you can pronounce it Nam Myōhō Renge Kyō. It will definitely be … Read More
Q. Some friends of mine belong to a religious cult from Japan, and they believe that they can shine the light of God through their hands. It is very similar to what is called “Johrei.” In the view of HBS … Read More