When evil kings in ancient times acted tyrannically and oppressed Buddhism, many sage monks were persecuted. I can conjecture from my own experience today how grief-stricken their followers, relatives, disciples, and supporters were. Now I, Nichiren, have actually practiced the whole book of the Lotus Sūtra as it is preached. Even those who uphold one phrase or verse are guaranteed to become Buddhas in the future. All the more so for those who actually practiced the whole book of the Lotus Sūtra to attain Buddhahood. This is most certain. Though unbecoming of me, I am hoping to attain Buddhahood not only for myself but also for all living beings in the whole country. I am sorry to say, however, that this is beyond my ability because we are in the country where the ruler does not heed my words.

Tenjū Kyōju Hōmon, Lightening the Karmic Retribution, Writings of Nichiren Shōnin, Followers I, Volume 6, Page 30-31