More valuable than treasures in a storehouse are the treasures of the body, and the treasures of the heart are the most valuable of all.”
written by Nichiren Daishonin in 13th century Japan
These plain words of caution and encouragement were written for Shijo Kingo, who was in the midst of a desperate struggle against adversity, undergoing harsh mistreatment by the lord of his clan and his colleagues. In this same letter, the Daishonin sternly instructs Shijo Kingo:
It is rare to be born a human being. The number of those endowed with human life is as small as the amount of earth one can place on a fingernail. Life as a human being is hard to sustain as hard as it is for the dew to remain on the grass. But it is better to live a single day with honor than to live to one hundred and twenty and die in disgrace. Live so that all the people of Kamakura will say in your praise that Shijo Kingo is diligent in the service of his lord, in the service of Buddhism, and in his concern for other people.
In this fleeting, transient life, it is most important to live truthfully and honestly as a human being. The Daishonin tells Shijo Kingo, an essential lesson about how to live: to make the “treasures of the heart” his first priority. He says, “From the time you read this letter on, strive to accumulate the treasures of the heart!”
Buddhism Shows You How To Live Honestly
Visit Myosenji Temple this Sunday, January 29th, for a video presentation and brief lecture on Buddhism Beliefs and Origins by our Chief Priest, Rev Sakabe. Learn to develop the treasures of your heart.
- 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.
