To Nichiren Shonin, the essence of the Buddha’s true will was distilled in a scripture called the Lotus Sutra, which recorded his most important teaching. More specifically, Nichiren Shonin believed the essence of this was expressed in the Odaimoku. Odaimoku is the Japanese word for “Sacred Title.” This refers to the expression of faith in the ultimate truth that is embodied in the full title of the Lotus Sutra, prouounced “Namu Myoho Renge Kyo” in Sino-Japanese. Namu Myoho Renge Kyo means “I devote myself to the Sutra of the Lotus Flower or the Wonderful Dharma.” Nichiren Shonin saw himself as the Buddha’s messenger, and taught with the conviction that the Buddha had entrusted him with a teaching and practice that would enable all people to attain awakening.