Every being, from the highest sage on down to the smallest mosquito or deer fly, holds life to be its most precious possession. To deprive a being of life is to commit the gravest kind of sin. When the Buddha appeared in this world, he made compassion for living beings his basis.
written by Nichiren Daishonin, 13th century Japan
Why is life considered to be so important from the standpoint of the Lotus Sutra? The reason is because all life exists within the ten worlds and therefore possesses the Buddha nature. Nichiren Daishonin teaches that life is the greatest treasure. It must be respected, and if there is any possibility to extend one’s life by even a day, this is equivalent to 10,000,000 coins of gold. This is not only true for human beings — life is the greatest treasure for all living beings in the sentient world.
Buddhist Chanting Make You Compassionate
Developing compassion for yourself and others is critical to understand the purpose and meaning of your life. This Saturday, March 9th, our Chief Priest will share a brief video and lecture on this, the Buddha nature and other core Buddhist beliefs.
- 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.
- 310 University Blvd West, Silver Spring, MD 20901
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.
