
Nichiren Buddhist Kannon Temple of Nevada

This Month's Nichiren Shonin's Words

妙法の 五字を 唱えずと いうことなし
Myōhō no Goji wo Tonaezu to Iukotonashi
There is nothing that does not apply to the five characters of Myō Hō Ren Ge Kyō
= All Things... =
The phrase “There is nothing that does not apply to the five characters of Myō Hō Ren Ge Kyō” is preceded by “Even the blowing wind, the swaying trees and plants, and the sound of flowing water at Mt. Minobu.”
This illustrates how Nichiren Shonin was inspired by various aspects of nature and the changing seasons at Mt. Minobu in Yamanashi Prefecture, where he resided.
We too feel the life force in the sprouting of plants, the vitality in the lush greenery and blooming flowers, and in the autumn foliage, we sense both a mysterious beauty and a sense of transience. However, also know that spring will surely come again, and life will flourish once more.
Everything is a manifestation of the Wonderful Dharma, Namu Myōhō Renge Kyō... in other words, a manifestation of the principles and truth of the universe. The four major elements (soil, water, fire, and wind) that are essential for life to exist are not something we humans created, but rather a gift from nature. This world is supported by great power, force, and influence.
We become aware of the world as it is and know ourselves who are alive in it. Let's live our lives with humility.
“Hakii-dono Gosho”
It is said that Nichiren Shonin wrote about considering Mt. Minobu as “Mt. Sacred Eagle” (where Sakyamuni Buddha revealed the Lotus Sutra) while he was in Ikegami, which is now part of Tokyo.
Fifth year of Koan (1282)
Age: 61