The Sacramento Nichiren Buddhist Church‘s September newsletter contains this explanation of “What is Buddhism?”:
Buddhism is the teaching of the Buddha, just as Christianity is the teaching of Jesus Christ and Islam is the teaching of Mohammad.
Yet, there is one major characteristic that distinguishes Buddhism from the other major religions: Those who embrace Buddhism can also become a Buddha. In Christianity, Judaism and Islam, believers are encouraged to learn the teachings of the founder and to devote themselves to a unique, absolute deity. Nonetheless, these followers cannot become a deity.
However, in Buddhism, anyone is said to have the potential to become the Buddha if they awaken to the truth behind the universe and human beings, which can be understood through studying the teachings of the Buddha.
Ultimately, Buddhism is everyone’s attempt to become a Buddha.
Recently I stumbled when attempting to explain what made Buddhism and, in particular, Nichiren’s teachings so special. I wish I had had this simple description at hand.
That such a commonplace explanation inspires me should be embarrassing. Instead, it makes me smile. It pleases me to be reminded that the Buddha wants me to be exactly like him.
As the Buddha sang in gāthās:
Know this, Śāriputra!
I once vowed that I would cause
All living beings to become
Exactly as I am.That old vow of mine
Has now been fulfilled.
I lead all living beings
Into the Way to Buddhahood.