The Lotus Sutra Path
Welcome to our Nichiren Shu Study Center
Nichiren Shu is a Buddhist lineage founded in 13th century Japan by the great religious reformer Nichiren Shōnin (1222–1282). After exhaustive study of all Buddhist sutras, Nichiren concluded that the Lotus Sutra represents the ultimate and genuine teachings of Śākyamuni Buddha. The core message of the Lotus Sutra is that all living beings, without exception, possess the Buddha-nature and have the capacity to attain enlightenment.
Brochure Study Material
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Non-Violence in Buddhism
Explains the value of life, quoting Nichiren Shōnin that we should treasure all life from the greatest sage to the lowliest mosquito. It emphasizes finding non-violent alternatives to personal and social problems.
Odaimoku
Explains the profound practice of chanting 'Namu Myoho Renge Kyo', detailing how the merits and wisdom of the Buddha are naturally transferred to us through upholding these five characters.
Kito
Discusses the unique Kito Blessing based on the Lotus Sutra. This special technique is passed on orally and performed by priests who have undergone a rigorous 100-day training at Nakayama Hokekyo-ji.
The Gohonzon by Senchu Murano
An analytical breakdown of the Gohonzon, explaining the historical Sakyamuni Buddha, the Eternal Buddha, and the deep significance of the objects and figures represented on the mandala.
Enshrining the Gohonzon
Addresses what the Gohonzon is and the spiritual significance of Nichiren Shu members enshrining it in their homes as a daily focal point of faith and devotion.
Nichiren Shū Buddhism
A comprehensive introductory brochure answering 'What is the Nichiren Shū?' and providing a foundational overview of the lineage's core teachings and history.
Nichiji Shonin and the Relics of Senka
Commemorates the 700th memorial year of Nichiji Shonin, detailing his tireless missionary travels to China and the fascinating relics discovered at Senka.
Questions and Answers on Nichiren Buddhism
A helpful Q&A format addressing various aspects of the faith, including the Dai Mandala Gohonzon and the distinct differences from other Buddhist traditions.
Juzu
Explains the significance of prayer beads (Juzu or Nenju) used in Buddhism, the 108 beads representing earthly defilements, and the proper way to hold them during chanting.
Nichiren Shū (1991)
Details traditional practices like the Danshinto Kenshu Dojo (training on Mt. Minobu), Japan-U.S.A. Youth Exchange, Rinban Hoshi, and Shakyo (sacred sutra copying).
The Life of the Buddha
A collection based on beautiful Thai Temple paintings from 1957, providing a short biography of the Buddha alongside his teachings and locations of famous Buddhist sites.
Save The Earth
A thoughtful children's brochure highlighting the Buddhist perspective on environmental care, harmony in nature, and the vital 'principle of thankfulness.'
700th Memorial Year Post Cards
A commemorative 1981 collection of post cards depicting key events in Nichiren Shonin's life, such as his birth, street preaching in Kamakura, and his exiles.
Eight Words
Focuses on the core tenets of Compassion, Patience, Hope, and Respect, illustrating how the Lotus Sutra's timeless teachings are applied to everyday life.
Karma
Explains the Buddhist concept of Karma as a stage of dynamic becoming, where our past actions influence our present, and our present choices shape our future.
The Pictorial Life of Saint Nichiren
An annotated visual biography detailing Nichiren Shonin's life, his submission of the Rissho Ankoku Ron, his survival of persecution, and his establishment of the Mandala.
The Lotus Sutra and Nichiren
A 1968 publication providing an in-depth academic and spiritual look at the deep connection between the core text of the Lotus Sutra and the teachings of Nichiren Shonin.
Memorial Service
Discusses the importance of family, including ancestors, and the Buddhist perspective on holding memorial services to transfer merit to past family members.
You're A Buddha
Explores the profound teaching that all individuals possess the Buddha nature within, and that greeting others with Gassho is an acknowledgment of their inherent Buddhahood.
Higan
Explains the observance of the equinox (Higan) as a special time for self-reflection, honoring ancestors, and actively practicing the six paramitas (perfections).
The Nichiren Shū (1985)
An introduction to the Nichiren Sect published by the Asia Buddhist Friendship Association, outlining the fundamental doctrines and historical background of the lineage.
A Handbook for Members of the Nichiren Sect
Discover the Shingyo Hikkei, an essential daily handbook designed to unify the faith and practice of Nichiren Sect followers worldwide.
Originally compiled in 1972 during the Protect the Dharma Movement to combat modern crises like "spiraling egotism" and violence, this guide was translated into English in 1978 to share the benevolent teachings of the Lotus Sutra across the globe.
Whether you are looking to strengthen your personal spiritual discipline or simply wish to learn more about the Bodhisattva path toward a brighter, more secure world, this manual offers profound, practical wisdom for everyday life.
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