KANJIN HONZON SHO

When the sun shines bright in the sky, everything is made clearly visible on the earth. In the same manner, when one knows the teachings of the Lotus Sutra, he will understand the meaning of the occurrences in the world. For the sake of those who live in the Latter Age of the Declining Law, who are too infantile to understand the Lotus or the Perfect Truth, and who are ignorant of the treasure of the truth of the “Three Thousand Existences in One Thought ” the Eternal Buddha will hang the treasure of the five characters (Myo-Ho-Ren-Ge-Kyo) around people’s necks. The four great Bodhisattvas who are apostles will protect the keepers of the five letters, as T’ai Kung-wang and Duke of Chou supported the young ruler Chen-wang, or as the four elders attended Emperor Hui-ti in China.

(Background : April 25, 1273, 51 years old, at Sado, Showa Teihon, p.720)

Explanatory note

The Buddha Sakyamuni directs His great compassion to us who live in the Latter Age of the Declining Law.

T’ien-t’ai of China discovered the truth of the “Three Thousand Existences in One Thought.” Thus he clarified the value of the Lotus Sutra. But it is difficult for us as novices to understand the principle of the “Three Thousand Existences in One Thought.”

Nichiren Daishonin sought the answer for us. It is to keep Odaimoku, “Namu Myoho Renge Kyo,” which contains the treasure of the “Three Thousand Existences in One Thought.” When we believe in it, we will be enveloped by the protection of all Buddhas, all Bodhisattvas, and all deities. We are warmly bundled with such compassion. We just accept frankly and seriously the unlimited salvation in the Lotus Sutra.

Let us appreciate the great compassion of the Buddha Sakyamuni and believe in Odaimoku and chant it for His great salvation. Thus, we become one with the Buddha’s Enlightenment, the Lotus Sutra.

Rev. Kanai

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