Resources for the introduction of SGI-Spain’s discussion meetings
All disciples and lay supporters of Nichiren should chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo with the spirit of many in body but one in mind, transcending all differences among themselves to become as inseparable as fish and the water in which they swim. This spiritual bond is the basis for the universal transmission of the ultimate Law of life and death. Herein lies the true goal of Nichiren’s propagation. When you are so united, even the great desire for widespread propagation [or the great vow for kosen-rufu] can be fulfilled.
↳ WND-1, page 217. Just like the previous issue of this section, this passage is taken from The Heritage of the Ultimate Law of Life, one of Nichiren Daishonin’s main writings. It dates from 1272 and was addressed to Sairen-bo.
The daimoku of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo that we chant each day is none other than the ultimate Law of life and the fundamental Law of the universe. The Gohonzon of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo we chant to is none other than the great life state of Buddhahood that Nichiren Daishonin embodied.
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When we chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo to the Gohonzon, the sound of the Mystic Law reaches the realm of Buddhahood in the universe as well as the Buddha nature within us, unlocking its innate compassion, wisdom, and courage. It fills us with the energy to face every difficulty, strengthens our life force, and makes us unbeatable. It enables us to exercise our wisdom and intellect, sets us on a sure path leading to good fortune and benefit, and allows us to advance toward victory. The true purpose of our Buddhist practice is to elevate our life state.
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Nichiren Daishonin revealed Nam-myoho-renge-kyo—the ultimate Law of life and death—so that all people living in the Latter Day of the Law could attain a state of indestructible happiness.
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(…) [O]nly an organization of individuals united in the spirit of “many in body, one in mind” and imbued with the spirit of mentor and disciple can ensure victory in the struggle between the Buddha and devilish functions and open the way to kosen-rufu. (…)
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Our wonderful unity of “many in body, one in mind” for the sake of kosen-rufu exemplifies the ideal of human harmony and cooperation. That is because we are an organization of diverse individuals who transcend differences of ethnicity, language, and culture to come together based on our shared humanity. We respect, learn from, and help one another. We do not tolerate any form of bullying or discrimination that tramples a person’s worth or dignity.
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The Soka Gakkai has created an ideal organization of “many in body, one in mind.”[1]
In the lecture from which the above Gosho passage and commentary have been taken from, Daisaku Ikeda also states:
For some of you, the word “organization” may evoke a feeling of constraint. But even learning and playing sports can’t be done alone. They require some type of organization, such as a school or team. Organizations are indispensable to human life. The organization of the Soka Gakkai exists to help us practice Nichiren Buddhism and attain happiness.
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On the other hand, organizations that have lost a sense of purpose or direction can cause people to suffer. An organization’s goals and how it tries to achieve them are crucial.
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The Soka Gakkai is an organization that values the individual and aims to enable each person to become happy. The Soka Gakkai is carrying out a movement to realize world peace and the happiness of all, spreading the philosophy of respect for life’s dignity across the globe. It accords entirely with the Buddha’s intent, faithfully achieving Nichiren Daishonin’s wish for worldwide kosen-rufu.[2]
This SGI-Spain discussion group is one of the pioneers in Valencia. Its growth has led it to multiply itself several times throughout the years, having created new groups (and we can say that this will happen again soon!). One of its characteristics is the thoughtfulness with which they prepare the discussion meetings and the earnestness with which they encourage others to participate. Direct contact is a priority. Another distinctive feature is the way in which the principle of transcending all differences described above is put into practice. Last but not least, this group treasures the Future Division members, whose fresh vitality is portrayed by the banner of this assembly.
Mailbox: prensa@ediciones-civilizacionglobal.com
[1] ↑ Extracted from the lecture published in the section “Estudio mensual” of Civilización Global, number 195, July 2021.
[2] ↑ Ib.