This is not to suggest that Nichiren Buddhists are not interested in what may be considered “mundane” acts of good, such as improving our world by recycling, donating our time and money to good causes, and other actions that our consciences dictate. In fact, the Buddhism of Nichiren Shonin tells us that such actions are not mundane at all, but are themselves acts of Buddhist faith. As Nichiren Shonin wrote to one believer, “This is what is meant by ‘No worldly affairs of life or work are ever contrary to the true reality.’ ” More specifically, as we follow the Buddha’s path, we improve the world in ways that we may not yet understand. As we increase our compassion for others, improve our sense of charity and patience, and bring ourselves to deep inner peace, how can we not have a positive effect on the world around us?

The practitioners of Nichiren Shu actively work toward this goal. Our daily practice and our daily lives are focused toward the betterment of the world by following the teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha in the Lotus Sutra through the teachings of Nichiren Shonin. We ask you to join us in this transformation of ourselves and our world. Join us and chant Namu Myoho Renge Kyo so that all sentient beings may experience this world as the Buddha’s Pure Land.

The teaching of Nichiren Shonin makes the path of Buddhism accessible to all, no longer just for those who have the predilection, time, or leisure to become recluses or monastics. More than that, the Buddhism of Nichiren Shonin truly endeavors to make the world a better place. The teaching of the oneness of life and its environment tells us that when we improve ourselves, we contribute to improving the world. Nichiren Buddhism also assures us that this world is the Buddha’s pure land; it is only our delusion that prevents us from seeing this. As we practice to achieve this realization and to assist others in the same pursuit the world looks more and more like a pure land to everyone in it.

The goals of the Buddha and of Nichiren Shu Buddhism are the same: bringing the freedom of awakening to all, no matter how deluded or bound by circumstances. In this book we have seen that the Lotus Sutra is the original teaching that guaranteed Buddhahood to all, including those seen as evil, such as Devadatta; those considered unable by nature to attain ultimate awakening, such as the monastic voice-hearers and the privately awakened ones; and those born with social impediments such as the dragon girl. Nichiren made the capacity for awakening truly universal through the teaching of the Three Great Secret Dharmas.

James Baldwin wrote, “If the concept or God has any validity or use, it can only be to make us larger, freer and more loving. If God cannot do this, then it is time we got rid of him.” Buddhism’s foundation is deeply rooted in the hope of ending the suffering of all living beings. If we replace the word “God” with the word “Dharma” in the above quote it becomes something that could easily have been said by the Buddha.

At the home altar, one enters sacred space and time, communes with the Eternal Shakyamuni Buddha, pays homage to the benevolent spiritual forces in the universe, and remembers one’s ancestors and deceased relatives. We should never view our lives as isolated or separate from other beings, whether living or deceased, human or otherwise. Though it may be easy to assume that we are separate and to lose ourselves in the lower worlds, when we chant Namu Myoho Renge Kyo and recite the Lotus Sutra, we renew our connection to the Buddha, to our families, and to all beings. In this simple practice, we are able to personally participate in the Ceremony in the Air of the Lotus Sutra every morning and evening.

Aside from reading books or articles online, you are probably most likely to encounter Buddhism at a temple, at a practice center, or at a small group meeting in a home. However, Nichiren Buddhism is focused on daily practice, and daily practice means home practice. Practice at temples and at practice centers are aimed at helping people learn and practice Buddhism in their daily lives.

The practice and fulfillment of Nichiren Buddhism begins with the primary practice of chanting Namu Myoho Renge Kyo. The primary practice is supported by the auxiliary practice of reciting passages from the Lotus Sutra, as well as several other dedications, vows, and prayers. Finally, those who practice the Lotus Sutra in this way will find themselves empowered to fulfill the Six Perfections in order to benefit themselves and others. Through these practices, the true spirit of the Buddha’s teaching – which is Namu Myoho Renge Kyo – will manifest itself in every aspect of our lives.