[T]he only dependable teaching is a phrase in fascicle seven of the Lotus Sūtra saying: “Propagate this sūtra throughout Jambudvipa during the last 500-year period after My passing.” Grand Master Dengyō interprets this: “The Ages of the True Dharma and Semblance Dharma are approaching the end, and the Latter Age of Degeneration is around the corner. It is the time when the One Vehicle teaching of the Lotus Sūtra will be propagated.”
Mikoshi Buri Gosho, Intimidation with the Portable Shrine, Writings of Nichiren Shōnin, Biography and Desciples, Volume 5, Page 138