At the age of 31, Nichiren Shonin returned to Seichoji Temple. On the morning of April 28, 1253, he faced the rising sun at the top of Mount Kiyosumi and chanted Namu Myoho Renge Kyo, thus initiating his mission to spread the Wonderful Dharma. He also gave himself the name he is known by today, Nichiren. The name means “Sun Lotus,” and refers to the light of the sun, which dispels darkness, and the purity of the lotus flower, which blooms in swamps, untouched by the dirty water around it.