Discovering the Buddhism of the Soka Gakkai

Esperia Editions

Each of us, regardless of the difficulties we encounter or the circumstances we find ourselves in, has a noble and unique mission to fulfill. When we deeply realize this, everything changes. We are born into this world, in this time, to fulfill the great vow we made in the distant past. Our karma is our mission; it is the stage on which we perform the grand spectacle in which adversity is transformed into victory.

Daisaku Ikeda

Do you have any questions? 

Eight centuries ago--on April 28, 1253--Nichiren Daishonin, a Japanese monk, first recited Nam myoho renge kyo, the teaching whose main purpose is to lead people to genuine happiness. 

His disciples constantly asked him questions, moved by a desire to clarify their beliefs and strengthen their faith. The Daishonin warmly encouraged such a spirit of inquiry; this tradition of questions and insights continues within the Soka Gakkai to this day. 

You, too, may have questions about the practice and its purpose, why we recite or why it is so important to attend meetings, and, crucially, what authentic and lasting happiness is. 

Soka Gakkai International President Daisaku Ikeda believes that the first steps in practice are crucial. In fact, he states, "If you can do things correctly from the beginning, you will be able to continue doing them." 

This small and practical book aims to provide answers to the most frequently asked questions, both of those who are about to begin their faith journey and of those who are already on their way.

TOPICS COVERED:

1. Nam myoho renge kyo
2. Prayer
3. The Gohonzon
4. The practice
5. Enlightenment and Buddhahood
6. Master and disciple
7. The Soka Gakkai
8. Mission and voting