Therefore, we know that the prayers offered by a practitioner of the Lotus Sutra will be answered just as an echo answers a sound, as a shadow follows a form, as the reflection of the moon appears in clear water, as a mirror collects dewdrops, as a loadstone attracts iron, as amber attracts particles of dust, or as a clear mirror reflects the color of an object.

written by Nichiren Daishonin in 13th century Japan

We’ve all been there—fraught with worries that seem to engulf us. These worries, they’re like thorns that prick at our hearts, causing untold suffering. Yet there is something truly transformative, something that has the power to uproot the very core of this suffering. It’s the world of Buddhahood.

Buddhahood is a state of being that offers a way out of the maze of distress we often find ourselves in. As our Founder, Nichiren Daishonin teaches us in the quote above, “prayers offered by a practitioner of the Lotus Sutra will be answered …” It’s like discovering the way to navigate the labyrinth of life’s challenges. It’s not some distant, unattainable ideal; it can be woven into our everyday existence.

So, how can we embrace this state of Buddhahood?

REGISTER TODAY

Buddhism’s Core Beliefs & Practice

Visit our Temple (In-Person) this Sunday, August 27th, for a brief video presentation and lecture by our Chief Priest, Rev Sakabe.

The meeting starts at 2:00 pm and concludes around 3:15 pm. This Sunday’s meeting will only be offered for in-person attendance. Our next online and in-person Introductory meeting is Sunday, September 17th.

REGISTER TODAY

If you have decided to become a Buddhist or are interested in learning how to become a Buddhist, after Sunday’s meeting (about 3:30 pm) Rev Sakabe will be performing the Acceptance of the Precept Ceremony, the ceremony where you become a Buddhist.

Excerpted: The Guide on the Difficult Road to Enlightenment.

Karma encompasses both positive and negative aspects, capable of opening opportunities, alleviating suffering, and creating joy, as well as disrupting, damaging, or taking control of one’s life. Every individual in this world possesses both positive and negative karma. Our only option is to confront and overcome our karma in order to attain peace and happiness in life.

When you chant Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo to the Gohonzon (object of worship), you acquire the wisdom to recognize positive opportunities and you acquire the courage to break through any difficulties. It is because the practice of chanting Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo awakens us to what the origin of our present suffering is, and also gives us the confidence that we can overcome our negative karma.

Karma Lecture – Sunday, August 20, 2023

Visit Myosenji Temple this Sunday in-person or online, to hear our Chief Priest explain how you can change your karma, effectively reflect on your karma, and understand the causes you make and the effects you receive. Discover whether or not your current thinking is counter-productive to your happiness. Register Today!

• Learn how to chant Nam Myoho Renge Kyo and properly use the Juzu Beads, Buddhist prayer beads.
• Q&A with our Chief Priest.
• The meeting starts at 2:00 pm and concludes around 3:15 pm.
• 310 University Blvd West, Silver Spring, MD 20901 entrance on Burnett Ave

If you have decided to become a Buddhist or are interested in learning how to become a Buddhist, after Sunday’s meeting (about 3:30 pm) Rev Sakabe will be performing the Acceptance of the Precept Ceremony, the ceremony where you become a Buddhist.

The precept of Nichiren Shoshu Buddhism is called the “precept of the diamond chalice” because the power of Myoho-Renge Kyo can never be broken throughout eternity, just like a diamond. In other words, this diamond chalice leads one to attain Buddhahood without fail.

“Gojukai” literally means the ceremony “to receive the precept.” Generally, it is the ceremony for conversion to Buddhism. In Nichiren Shoshu, those determined to start their faith and practice of true Buddhism receive this ceremony from a Nichiren Shoshu priest.

Visit Myosenji Temple on SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2023 at 2pm to learn how to become a Buddhist and participate in the Acceptance of the Precept Ceremony. Buddhist practice empowers you to transform your Karma and improve your life, while also contributing to the well-being of others and the environment we inhabit. If you are ready to receive Gojukai (Acceptance of the Precept) Ceremony, start here.

REGISTER for Myosenji Temple’s online and in-person monthly Introductory series.

Visit: https://nstmyosenji.org
Text: 240-681-9397
Email: myosenjitemple@gmail.com

The precept of Nichiren Shoshu Buddhism is called the “precept of the diamond chalice” because the power of Myoho-Renge Kyo can never be broken throughout eternity, just like a diamond. In other words, this diamond chalice leads one to attain Buddhahood without fail.*

“Gojukai” literally means the ceremony “to receive the precept.” Generally, it is the ceremony for conversion to Buddhism. In Nichiren Shoshu, those determined to start their faith and practice of true Buddhism receive this ceremony from a Nichiren Shoshu priest.

Visit Myosenji Temple on SUNDAY, August 6, 2023 at 2pm to learn how to become a Buddhist and participate in the Acceptance of the Precept Ceremony. Buddhist practice empowers you to transform your Karma and improve your life, while also contributing to the well-being of others and the environment we inhabit. To ensure a smooth experience, please complete the application for the ceremony in advance and email it to the Temple. This way, when you arrive on Sunday, you will be prepared to receive the Precept. Click here to access the application and complete the process.

*Excerpted: Nichiren Shoshu Monthly Magazine, The Precept of the Diamond Chalice, July, 2019, p.20.