Murano (February 17, 1983)
The word shu is usually translated as “sect”. I do not like this translation. Nor do I like “Order”, either. “Denomination” may be better, but I have never found this word in the proper names of any religious organizations. What is the best word for shu?

Montgomery (March 11, 1983)
I agree with you that the terms “Sect” and “Order” are both inadequate. “Sect” has a derogatory connotation in English, as does “sectarian.” “Order’ implies a monastic order, one of many possible in a given church. “Church” would be the best translation for shu, were it not so intimately connected with Christianity. The Jews, who never use the term “church”, use society, association, alliance, union, assembly, council or organization. These terms are also used by some Christians. Some Christians also use faith, conference, fellowship, congregation, movement, meeting, convention, unity, federation or synod. Episcopalians use episcopate. I agree that the term “denomination” might be the best translation for shu. It is a long and clumsy word, but it is specific and neutral. The use of the term implies neither approval nor disapproval, whereas “sect” has a rather unpleasant ring to it, implying a break-off from some larger body. To say Nichiren Denomination would be accurate, although perhaps in this country it might be better to add the word “Buddhist” for clarification: thus “Nichiren Buddhist Denomination.”