If the hearts and minds of the people are tainted, so is their land. However, if their minds are pure, the land also will be pure. The land, in itself, is not divided into two types. Indeed, whether the land is pure or impure is solely determined by our hearts and minds. (Nichiren Daishonin, “Attaining Buddhahood in this Lifetime” Gosho, p. 46; written in 13th century Japan)
According to the teachings of Buddhism, it may seem as though there are two types of lands: the pure and untainted land of the Buddha and the impure and tainted land of the Saha* world. In fact, the land is not divided into two types. The Daishonin teaches us that, if the people embrace true Buddhism and maintain correct faith in their hearts, then the land becomes a pure, untainted realm.
This Sunday, February 15th, our Chief Priest will lecture on the Buddhist Concept of the Ten Worlds. He will explain how one can transcend the lower six worlds to search and find the Buddha’s wisdom. The meeting begins at 2:00 pm.
*Saha World is inhabited by human beings and is full of sufferings. (Basic Terminology of Nichiren Daishonin, p. 114)
Excerpt: The Oneness of Life and Its Environment.
