In this section we offer resources for the SGI Spain discussion meetings; namely: a quote that sheds light on the relevance of the efforts that crystallise on these gatherings (“Globally”), a presentation of one of the groups that sustain them (“Locally”), a passage from The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin commented by Daisaku Ikeda (“Advancing with the Gosho”) and some “Keywords.”
GLOBALLY
A main aspect of the SGI-Spain’s activities in this time of the year is the encouragement to study the Buddhist teachings, which is always important, but it is especially emphasised during the months preceding the exams scheduled for November.[1] Just as we have been bringing up in the last issues of this section, discussion meetings in Soka Gakkai are the place where this takes place; namely where an open dialogue based on experiences takes place. The aim of the resources which are introduced in this section, is none other than to inspire in each group a brief introduction to this dialogue. An introduction where it is certainly called for to read the passage of The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin highlighted in the section “Advancing with the Gosho.”
In a recent instalment of the “Encouragement of the Four Seasons” series, Daisaku Ikeda has once again underlined the importance of the writings of the Daishonin, of reading them and of the spirit this reading can encourage. He states the following: “The Gosho, which elucidates the quintessential principles of the Mystic Law, is a timeless text of unsurpassed significance and value. (…) Throughout the Gosho, we find the Daishonin’s sincere ‘behaviour as a human being’—his profound care and consideration for each individual. While deeply studying the teaching of the highest and ultimate humanism, let us also treasure each person and enable them to form a connection with Buddhism.[2]
LOCALLY
This SGI-Spain discussion group in Mungia, Biscay, takes the name of a much-loved hill by the people who live there. It is “the hill all of us from the town climb and it is quite steep. At the end it has a small slope which needs to be challenged, but the views are beautiful.” This group’s history resonates with this description as it is a pioneer kosen-rufu group in the Basque Country and for years its members have had to challenge themselves, strengthen their faith and persevere. But by having done so, they are now finally enjoying an excellent view of capable people…
(Mailbox: prensa@ediciones-civilizacionglobal.com)
ADVANCING WITH THE GOSHO
Though I may be a person of little ability, I have reverently given myself to the study of the Mahayana. A blue fly, if it clings to the tail of a thoroughbred horse, can travel ten thousand miles, and the green ivy that twines around the tall pine can grow to a thousand feet.
(On Establishing the Correct Teaching for the Peace of the Land, in WND-1, p. 17).
“Many Soka Gakkai members deeply recognize the truth of this passage (…). Though at first mired in their own problems and suffering, they have gone on to enjoy a life state of unimagined happiness by embracing the great teaching of the Mystic Law and living their lives together with the Soka Gakkai and their fellow members. (…)
In this passage, the host[3] says he is engaged in the study of Mahayana Buddhism. One of the characteristics of Mahayana Buddhism is the bodhisattva practice to relieve the sufferings of all living beings. The essence of this practice is found in the Lotus Sutra, which expounds the principles of universal enlightenment and the emergence of the Bodhisattvas of the Earth. (…)
In his opening words in ‘On Establishing the Correct Teaching for the Peace of the Land,’ the host says to the guest: ‘Now that you have come, we can lament together. Let us discuss the question at length.’[4] Throughout the work, he speaks with the guest as an equal, employing sutra passages and reasoning (…).
As a disciple of the Buddha, the host calls on the guest to join him in learning, discussing, and practicing Buddhism. For the host, the dialogue was a search for truth, an attempt to strike a chord in the guest’s life through his attitude and respectful behaviour. At its heart was a compassionate wish to communicate the truth to the person in front of him and enable that person to become happy. Such compassion engenders courage and wisdom. The host’s tenacious efforts at dialogue brim with an unshakable commitment to leading the guest to the correct teaching.”[5]
KEYWORDS
Dialogue as an equal · Learning · Respectful attitude · Compassionate wish to bring happiness
[1] ↑ Please refer to sections «Este mes» and «Estudio mensual» in this issue.
[2] ↑ IKEDA, Daisaku: “The Gosho Is the Supreme and Brilliant Source of Joy,” Seikyo Shimbun, 4/9/2022.
[3] ↑ On Establishing the Correct Teaching for the Peace of the Land treatise which Nichiren Daishonin addressed on the 16th July 1260 to Hojo Tokiyori, retired regent who was still the most influential member of the Japanese clan, takes the format of a dialogue between a host, which represents the Daishonin, and a guest, whose attitude probably was seeking to inspire its conversational partner.
[4] ↑ In WND-1, p. 7.
[5] ↑ IKEDA, Daisaku: “Advancing on the Great Path of Kosen-rufu with Unwavering Lifelong Courage,” Daibyakurenge, October 2021.