“Myoho-Renge-Kyo” is symbolically represented by the lotus. The mahamandara flower, which is said to bloom in heaven and the cherry blossoms, which bloom in the human world, are both beloved flowers, but the Buddha chose neither to represent the Lotus Sutra. Of all the varieties of flowers, the Buddha chose the lotus blossom, in particular, to symbolize the Lotus Sutra and he had a reason for doing so.
Some plants flower first and bear fruit later, while others bear fruit first and flower later. Some plants will sprout only a single flower and bear abundant fruit, while others have numerous flowers but produce only a single fruit. And there are plants that do not flower but only bear fruit. There exist various kinds of plants; however, the lotus is the only one that flowers and bears fruit simultaneously.
All other teachings explain that one must first perform good deeds in order to later attain Buddhahood. It is, therefore, not clear whether it will ever be attained. However, the Lotus Sutra teaches that the hands used to hold the Lotus Sutra will immediately enter Buddhahood, and the mouth that chants the Daimoku* will instantly become Buddha. It is similar to the reflection of the moon as it rises above the eastern mountains, which immediately appears to float on the surface of the water or a sound and its resonance occurring simultaneously.
written by Nichiren Daishonin in 13th century Japan
Visit our Buddhist Temple
Sunday, September 25th for a brief video presentation and lecture on Buddhist beliefs by our Chief Priest. Rev Sakabe will explain why we recite the Lotus Sutra and chant.
- 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.
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.
* Daimoku – chanting Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo
