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| Buddhist Practice |
| Basic Practice |
 Members of the SGI practice the Buddhism taught
by the thirteenth-century Japanese monk Nichiren. At the core of Nichiren's
Buddhism are the phrase Nam-myoho-renge-kyo and a mandala referred to as
the Gohonzon.
There are three basic elements to the practice
of Nichiren Buddhism: chanting the phrase Nam-myoho-renge-kyo as a prayer for oneself and others;
studying the teachings of Nichiren; and making efforts to share
the teachings of Buddhism, to spread the Buddhist
perspective of life's inherent dignity and potential. SGI members
perform a morning and evening practice known as Gongyo, which
consists of chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo and reciting portions
of the Lotus Sutra. |
| The "Law" |
| Buddhism teaches that a universal Law (Dharma)
underlies everything in the universe. This is the very essence
of life. One could also think of it as the fundamental rhythm
of life and the universe. Nichiren identified this Law or essence
as Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. He taught that by correctly carrying out the
practice of Buddhism anyone is able to bring their individual
life into harmony with the greater life of the universe. The
result of this is that one is able to experience greater wisdom,
courage, life force and compassion (the qualities of this life-essence). This, practically, is what it means to manifest Buddhahood,
or an enlightened life condition. |
| Buddhahood in Daily Life |
| Lisa Hollis |
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SGI members are encouraged to employ their Buddhist
practice to squarely confront and overcome the specific challenges
of their daily lives. Through this process, one is able to appreciate and manifest the profound
potential of one's life. Buddhist practice is also a means to realize and unfold one's unique life purpose. SGI members believe that this process of inner spiritual transformation
or "human revolution" not only leads to individual empowerment and constructive action
but is the surest way to direct humankind's energies toward
creating a peaceful and prosperous world. |
| Discussion Meetings |
| SGI members carry out their daily practice
at home and meet at regular local discussion meetings to study Buddhist
principles and how to apply them in everyday life. At these
gatherings, members also exchange ideas, hopes, challenges and
experiences of their Buddhist faith and practice. These small
group meetings are a place of mutual encouragement as well as
for sharing Buddhist faith with friends. |
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