When I inquire where hell and Buddhahood exist, I find that some sutras state that hell is situated below the ground; others say that the Buddha land is in the west, and so forth. However, when I carefully examine this matter, it appears to me that [both hell and Buddhahood] exist in our five-foot body. What seems plausible is that one who despises his father and neglects his mother possesses the world of hell in his heart. If a comparison were to be drawn, both flower and fruit can be found within a lotus seed. The state of Buddhahood, too, exits in our own hearts. For example, flint has the potential to generate fire, and a gemstone conceals intrinsic value. We, common mortals, can neither see our own eyelashes in close proximity, nor endless space far away. Likewise, we cannot recognize that Buddhahood exists within our own hearts.
written by Nichiren Daishonin in 13th century Japan
Why do people practice Buddhism? Two ultimate purposes: 1) to realize an absolutely unshakeable state of happiness in which there is boundless joy in being alive (attaining Buddhahood in this lifetime); and, 2) to realize an ideal society in which people can enjoy happy lives together based on True Buddhism.
“Attaining Buddhahood in this lifetime” does not mean changing your human form. Nor does it mean becoming a Buddha when you die, a mistaken view commonly held. Rather, it means achieving in this lifetime and in our present form, the greatest potential life condition contained within the depths of our lives. Buddhahood is a mighty force that manifests a solution to every kind of suffering. It is a source of energy which manifests in our daily lives and propels each of us into a brilliant, truly joyful and fulfilled existence in the the present moment.
Buddhism & Human Happiness
Visit our Buddhist Temple this Sunday, July 29th for a brief video presentation on Buddhism’s history beliefs and a brief lecture on the practice of Buddhism and the Lotus Sutra by our Chief Priest, Rev Sakabe. He will explain more about Buddhism’s view of human happiness and peace in this world.
- 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. Open to the public.
- 310 University Blvd West, Silver Spring, MD 20901
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.
