The impurity of the people manifests as the physical and spiritual decline of the population leading to the corruption of the entire society.
Buddhist Study
This past Sunday, Myosenji Temple members were able to meet with Chief Priest, Rev Murata, for his study lecture on the Buddhist concept, The Five Impurities. Rev Murata explained how the five impurities represent the darkness or illusion inherent in human beings whose fundamental nature is easily controlled by earthly desires. The “five impurities” are impurities of the age (ko-‐joku), of desire (bonno-‐joku), of the people (shujo-‐joku), of thought (ken-‐joku) and of life itself (myo-‐joku). They are mentioned in the Hoben (second) chapter of the Lotus Sutra.
Exert yourself in the two ways of practice and study. Without practice and study, there can be no Buddhism. (written by Nichiren Daishonin in 13th century Japan)
In addition to chanting Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo every day and reciting the Sutra (called Gongyo), Nichiren Shoshu Buddhists study the teachings of Nichiren Daishonin (called Gosho). At Myosenji Temple, each month members have many opportunities to learn about Buddhism. Special study meetings are held for new members to help them move forward on their Buddhist journey. Study helps to resolve doubts, overcome laziness, and strengthen our practice so when we face obstacles and want to stop, we can bolster ourselves to continue.
Visit Myosenji Temple
To learn how you can begin your Buddhist practice, visit Myosenji Temple this Saturday, August 8th, at 2:00 pm for our next Introduction to Buddhism class, What is Buddhism? Who is Buddha? Following a brief video presentation, our Chief Priest will conduct a Q&A session and teach you how to chant properly.
If you have decided to become a Buddhist or are interested in learning how to become a Buddhist, after Saturday’s meeting (about 3:30 pm) Rev Murata will be performing the Acceptance of the Precept Ceremony, the ceremony where you become a Buddhist.
Excerpted from: August 2, 2015 Myosenji Temple Study Meeting and Chapter 8, Study, from the Basics of Practice.
