Though the Essential Section of the Lotus Sutra is of primary importance for determining the faith and practice of Nichiren Buddhism, this does not imply that the Theoretical Section should be discarded. The Theoretical Section derives its own meaning from the Essential Section, but it can also be used to help us better understand the Essential Section. The point of this is that though the theory of the One Vehicle depends upon the essential reality of the Eternal Buddha, the theory and the reality are consistent with one another. If we have faith in the Eternal Buddha we will understand the meaning of the One Vehicle, and if we truly understand the meaning of the One Vehicle, we will be in accord with the true intention of the Eternal Buddha. For this reason, Nichiren Shonin taught that the whole sutra was worthy of respect, both the theoretical and essential sections.