In this world we pointlessly are bound by the five desires. We do not notice that the time passes so quickly—just like the shadow of a white colt passing across a crack in the wall. We are as ignorant about our own fate as sheep being taken to slaughter. Also, we are helplessly confined within a prison of worry about food and clothing, fruitlessly falling into the trap of chasing fame and fortune, only to return to the familiar neighborhood of the three evil paths and endlessly transmigrating the six paths.
written by Nichiren Daishonin in 13th century Japan
This past Sunday our Chief Priest Rev Sakabe shared recent guidance from High Priest Nichinyo Shonin:
Many people in the world do not try to seriously examine the issue of birth and death, unless they experience a close encounter with their own death. Though knowing it in their heads, people are too busy to think about this issue, since they are preoccupied with pleasure, reputation, and appearances. Accordingly, they spend their lifetime in vain, transmigrating the six paths.
However, not a single person can escape death. Thus, the most essential thing for us now is to believe in Myoho-Renge-Kyo of sowing the seed of the true cause, the secret Law that can save all living beings, and correctly understand the principle of birth and death. Then, we should establish the world of Buddhahood within our lives, the best state of life with happiness, which can last for all eternity.
Visit our Buddhist Temple
Saturday, Nov 11th, we will host an Introduction meeting on Buddhism’s Beliefs & Origins. You will learn how Buddhism views birth and death, what transmigrating the six paths means and what you can do to improve your life and make yourself and your family happy.
- Brief video presentation and lecture on Buddhism’s Beliefs & Origins by Chief Priest
- 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, Rev Sakabe will be performing the Acceptance of the Precept Ceremony, the ceremony where you become a Buddhist, immediately following the meeting.
