Sunday, September 29, 2013
Faith, Practice, and Study
"Faith is first and foremost" -- Nichiren quoting the Flower Garland Sutra
Dear Russian readers: Hope its nothing that I said
Russian readership of the Eagle peak blog has tailed off considerably. Hope its nothing that I've said. If there is anything you wish to discuss about Nichiren Daishonin's Lotus Sutra Buddhism or anything in general, we will be happy to discuss it with you in light of Namu Myoho renge kyo.
Apples and oranges
The pervasive violence, murder, and killings perpetrated by the Muslims, Christians, Jews, and Hindus over the centuries and the rare exceptional violence perpetrated by the provisional Buddhists, let alone by the disciples and believers of Shakyamuni Buddha of the Original Doctrine and Nichiren Daishonin.
Plastic bag disrupts Fukushima water cleaning system
But we should believe the Japanese about the faith and practice of the Mystic Law [rather than Nichiren Daishonin]. Go directly to the source. This is what we have been telling you for 17 years. Wake up.
Friday, September 27, 2013
Slanderous post on Kempon Hokke facebook site by a Nichiren Shu member that was thoroughly refuted 15 years ago by former Kempon Hokke member Graham Lamont [see subsequent post]
"THE ILLNESS WITHIN NICHIREN BUDDHISM
====================================
or, Shoju and Shakubuku
"These two methods of shoju and shakubuku are like water and
fire. Fire hates water, water detests fire. The practitioner
of shoju laughs with scorn at shakubuku. The practitioner of
shakubuku laments at the thought of shoju. When the country
is full of evil people without wisdom, then shoju is the
primary method to be applied, as described in the "Peaceful
Practices" chapter. But at a time when there are many people
of perverse views who slander the Law, then shakubuku should
come first, as described in the "Never Disparaging" chapter."
- The Opening of the Eyes, part 2
Fellow Practitioners of the Buddhism of Nichiren:
Something is wrong in the world of Nichiren Buddhism.
No matter the school of Nichiren Buddhism in question, the promise of the practice of this Buddhism is enlightenment, the opening up of our Buddha wisdom and bodhisattva compassion. And Nichiren reminded us that daily life is Buddhism, and Buddhism is in accord with reason.
Nonetheless, if you look at any reasonable sampling of the message boards, mailing lists, and newsgroups related to Nichiren Buddhism, you will see that many of these forums wallow in hatred and anger -- and perhaps ignorance, as well. Of course, some argue that the internet is a poor sampling of Nichiren Buddhists; this may very well be true. However, Nichiren Buddhists active in internet forums have a special responsibility. The internet is rapidly becoming (and for some groups, already is) the main source of information for society. Many people, when looking for information on a new subject, turn to the internet to thoroughly research that subject from all available angles. Within the next ten years -- perhaps even within the next five -- just about every person in the most impressionable age groups will be obtaining their information and forming their opinions based on the variegated landscape that is the internet.
Before the events that brought about the great inter-Nichiren debate, Nichiren Buddhism did not enjoy the best admiration of other Buddhists due to alleged distortions of the Buddha's Dharma. When these people look at Nichiren Buddhism today, who can doubt that their opinion is only reinforced, as it would appear that instead of eliminating the Three Poisons, many of the most vocal believers have instead reinforced them?
Some argue that judging Nichiren Buddhism by the precepts of any other Buddhist school is invalid, since Nichiren Buddhism transcends the practice of those other schools. There are, I think, arguments that address that view, but one does not need to go so far. A far simpler fact to demonstrate is that almost anyone of any belief whatsoever would look at the material and come to the conclusion that the persons involved are acting in unprofitable, inconsiderate, even vitriolic ways. It is almost universally understood that such means are inappropriate to civilized behavior and ineffective in swaying the opinions of other people.
I believe that Nichiren Buddhism should manifest both inconspicuous proof (eventual attainment of enlightenment) and conspicuous proof(improvement in the buddha-like behavior of the practitioner here and now). What has gone wrong when we see so many chanters of the Daimoku who are gripped with paranoia, vituperative attackers of fellow Buddhists, and callous slingers of sarcastic and hurtful rhetoric? How can we expect those who are learning about Nichiren Buddhism to believe in any kind of actual proof when the mental and behavioral disorders of some of those who practice this faith are so manifest?
Nichiren Unfairly Blamed for Circumstances
------------------------------------------
"If one propagates the teaching without understanding the
time, one will reap no benefit but, on the contrary, will
fall into the evil paths." - The Teaching, Capacity, Time, and Country
Some claim that this behavior it is understandable in light of the behavior of our founder, Nichiren himself. Certainly that has been the premise of the detractors of Nichiren Buddhism for a long time. Nichiren was vocal in his criticisms of other sects, and steadfast (some would say stubborn) in his views. However, for several reasons I think we can discount this unjust criticism.
First of all, Nichiren lived in a very different society than we do today; the state controlled all aspects of life, including religion. Nichiren and those who followed his truth endangered their very lives by adhering to the supremacy of the Lotus Sutra and by chanting Namu Myoho Renge Kyo. The other sects of Buddhism had leaders that were all too willing to protect their own interests at the expense of the truth by slandering Nichiren and calling for his death as a heretic. Not only were the lives of the believers at stake, but something even more important, the survival of True Buddhism was at stake -- the government could have effectively obliterated Nichiren Buddhism.In this environment, Nichiren was forced, indeed, as a compassionate bodhisattva (or Buddha, if you prefer) he was obligated, to protect Buddhism. He did this by vehemently arguing for his doctrines and sharply criticizing the errors of other schools. Without Nichiren's actions -- appropriate for his time and country -- his Buddhism would have been annihilated. On the other hand, today we live in a world that recognizes freedom of religion. No governmental force (in the most of the countries that represent the Nichiren Buddhist universe) compels us to follow one religion or another; we do not need to fight for the right to practice as we believe. All of the Nichiren schools say that their membership is increasing, so none can maintain that the survival of what they consider to be True Buddhism (however inclusive or exclusive) is threatened. What Nichiren had to do in his time is not required in ours.
The second fact that refutes the blame placed on Nichiren is that he wrote to his followers that one had to understand the time and country to determine what methods of propagation were appropriate. If Nichiren had intended that only one method be used, he certainly would have said so; instead, he very clearly stated in more than one instance that the circumstances must be taken into account to determine the correct method. Because of this, it is my view that not only is it implicit that Nichiren's radical activism is not the cause of the problem, considering the differing circumstances of his time, it is also made perfectly explicit by Nichiren himself that under certain circumstances -- I would argue, under our circumstances -- a different approach to propagation is called for.
The Meaning of Shoju and Shakubuku
----------------------------------
"I refer you to the passage in the "Never Disparaging"
chapter that states, "He would say to people, 'I have
profound reverence for you.' ... [ellipsis in original]
Among the four kinds of believers there were those who gave
way to anger, their minds lacking in purity, and they spoke
ill of him and cursed him, saying, 'This ignorant monk.'"
The chapter also says, "Some among the group would take
sticks of wood or tiles and stones and beat and pelt him."
And in the "Encouraging Devotion" chapter it says, "There
will be many ignorant people who will curse and speak ill of
us and will attack us with swords and staves." These
passages imply that one may be reviled and cursed and even
beaten for it. Since the sutra so teaches, is one who
preaches to blame?"- The Selection of the Time
Some Nichiren Buddhists argue that the Latter Day of the Law is a time for shakubuku ["break and subdue," sometimes referred to as "aggressive" propagation] as opposed to shoju ["persuasion" as propagation]. There are various passages in Nichiren's writings in which Nichiren clearly states that he found shakubuku to be appropriate in his time. The argument as to whether shakubuku or shoju is to be used in our time has been argued at length in many forums. To justify their behavior, those who participate in the disordered debates between schools often support the view that shakubuku is appropriate at this time. I will not argue that question in this section, but instead will discuss the essence of both methods.
In the quote from The Opening of the Eyes at the beginning of this essay, Nichiren clearly defines the scriptural background for these two practices. Shoju is to be based on the "Peaceful Practices" chapter of the Lotus Sutra. Shakubuku should be based on the "Never Disparaging" chapter of the Lotus Sutra.
In the quote above from "The Selection of the Time," Nichiren gives an outline of the story of the "Never Disparaging" chapter. Nichiren clearly believed that the shakubuku method by which he propagated the Lotus Sutra was in accordance with that chapter. In "Letter from Teradomari," Nichiren says, The "Encouraging Devotion" chapter of the present will be the "Never Disparaging" chapter of the future, and at that time, I, Nichiren, will be its Bodhisattva Never Disparaging. It should be evident from this that the behavior of that bodhisattva in the "Never Disparaging" chapter is the model for Nichiren's shakubuku method.
Nichiren used a method of shakubuku that accorded with his time. However, Nichiren was never disparaging; he certainly was unafraid of telling his opponents what the results of their actions would be in the strictest terms, but he was always respectful and does, indeed, say that all the beings of the world would eventually attain buddhahood once they began practicing the Lotus Sutra.
However, when we look at those who participate in the disordered debates of Nichiren Buddhism, which description seems to fit the participants better? Can they be characterized by the expression, "I have profound reverence for you"? Or do they seem to be more like those who said, "This ignorant monk" and those who "curse and speak ill"? If one has any doubts, one could ask someone with no interest in the disordered debate to review that debate, and then select which characterization seems more appropriate to that disinterested observer. That experiment, in my experience, confirms my premise: it is the latter group, the adversaries of Bodhisattva Never Disparaging, that appears to characterize the participants better.
Further, the strident tone that was necessary for Nichiren to take in his shakubuku efforts are, as stated above, unnecessary and inappropriate for shakubuku in our time, in my opinion. The survival of Nichiren Buddhism is no longer dependent upon justification to an authoritarian government, nor are today's people convinced by fiery, uncompromising statements. This is not to say that one who seeks to propagate Buddhism should not be unequivocal in his or her statements as to doctrine, rather that the tone and forcefulness of the rhetoric should be appropriate to our time and the country.
Which Method Is Appropriate?
----------------------------
"When in public debate, although the teachings that you advocate are perfectly consistent with the truth, you should never on that account be impolite or abusive, or display a conceited attitude. Such conduct would be disgraceful. Order your thoughts, words, and actions carefully, and be prudent when you meet with others in debate." - The Teaching, Practice, and Proof
The question of which method of propagation should be used for today is, in my view, a two-part issue. First, it is our responsibility as Nichiren Buddhists to introduce society at large to our practice. Without propagation to the community at large, we derelict our duty as bodhisattvas to work for the happiness of all people and we ensure the extinction of Nichiren Buddhism as no new believers are obtained.
Second, it is evidently the feeling of many Nichiren Buddhists that those practicing in other Nichiren schools should be encouraged to join their own school, which they sometimes consider to be the only actual practitioners of Nichiren Buddhism. Whether this latter type of propagation is necessary or not is the province of the individual school in question; I will not presume to inform them in their own doctrines. However, I will presume to note what I think is the appropriate method for such propagation, perhaps at the risk of treading finely on the line of giving doctrinal advice.
Which of the countries described in the opening quote from "The Opening of the Eyes" does society at large most resemble? The usual interpretation of the two criteria is: "... the country is full of evil people without wisdom ..." refers to a land in which the people have not even aroused an aspiration for the buddha-way, nor do they even know about the Lotus Sutra, so that slander of the Law is not possible. The land in which "... there are many people of perverse views who slander the Law ..." is interpreted as meaning a country in which people have aspired to the buddha-way and have heard of the Lotus Sutra, but slander the Law by rejecting the Lotus Sutra. I think we can say that society at large conforms more closely to the land in which shoju is appropriate. Indeed, most Nichiren Buddhists apply the principles of shoju in propagation to those who are unfamiliar with the Lotus Sutra. One is unlikely to convince a Christian or an atheist to practice Nichiren Buddhism by haranguing that person with the evils of their beliefs; a more human, one-to-one interaction is required. By and large, Nichiren Buddhists apply this well, in my opinion.
On the other hand, among fellow Buddhists, particularly those of other Nichiren schools, we can certainly say that society or "land" conforms more closely with the country in which shakubuku is appropriate. However, in his advice to a priest who was going to debate with other Buddhists, certainly those for whom shakubuku was appropriate, he explicitly instructed his disciple to be polite, unabusive, and humble in attitude. If these instructions were to be followed under the circumstances of Nichiren's time, how much more true are they in our time? Even those who would claim that Nichiren himself did not clearly follow all of these guidelines must admit that this passage would then be a clear statement that what was appropriate for Nichiren, as the founder ensuring the safe birth and continued existence of his Buddhism, is not appropriate for those who follow him.
Further, we must be aware that our conversations with other Buddhists in this land are conducted in the context of society at large. When a Nichiren Buddhist denigrates, vilifies, and is impolite to another Buddhist, it is observed by those who are not Nichiren Buddhists, including those to whom we are attempting to propagate our practice. Though shakubuku may be the method to take in these conversations, it must be informed by the awareness that those who know nothing of Buddhism will observe. This only serves to reinforce the wisdom of Nichiren's guidance in "The Teaching, Practice, and Proof," and to remind us of what is appropriate for our time and country.
Conclusion
----------
The present epidemics are like the virulent boils of King
Ajatashatru that could not be cured by anyone but the Buddha. They can only be eliminated by the Lotus Sutra. - The Two Kinds of Illness
We are once again living in a time in which Nichiren Buddhism is in danger of being severely impaired or even eradicated. However, today it is not an authoritarian government that endangers our practice. Instead, the continued vitality and propagation of the teachings that Nichiren bestowed on the Latter Day of the Law is compromised by the actions of some of those who are duty-bound to protect it. By no means do I think that the persons to whose actions I refer are attempting to destroy Buddhism; in fact, I believe that they sincerely wish to lead people to the correct teaching. However, I fear that in their zealous desire to
ensure that the correct teachings are practiced, they have lost sight of important principles.
The symptoms of the illness which infects Nichiren Buddhism today can be seen in the effects of the propagation methods chosen. How often can we think of people we have been kind to, who we have nurtured in their understanding, that have been effectively brought into the practice? Every conversion that I know of is marked by this joyful propagation. Conversely, has any person ever been converted by name-calling, vituperation, and the bitter stridency that characterizes those disordered debates? The conversations have degraded from being essentially ineffective, in my view, to being sarcastic repetitions of the same allegations and simple ad hominem attacks. Not one of the
participants in these virulent boils on the body of inter-Nichiren discussion can state that he or she will ever be convinced by the arguments of the other side; why do they think that their adversaries will be? Their claim that they participate in the discussions to "present their side of the story" to those who enter the discussion without knowledge of the debate is ludicrous: LOOK AT THE PARTICIPANTS IN THESE DISCUSSIONS. Almost every message is from the old, familiar combatants; those who enter with a questioning mind or simple curiosity are overwhelmed by the incredible volume of vituperation that the combatants present over and over again. The noncombatants inevitably
vanish, either to find another place to seek or, all too often, so sickened by what they have seen that they will never explore Nichiren Buddhism again.
How does this serve to propagate our belief? In what way does this fulfill the "Mai ji sa ze nen" of the Eternal Buddha?
It does not. This boil, no, this cancer in the body of Nichiren Buddhism MUST BE REMOVED. The continued life of Nichiren Buddhism is at stake. The only solution is the total disarmament of parties to the angry, hateful, and ignorant discussions. We must be civil, we must respect one another's beliefs, and we must devote our energy to fruitful propagation instead of fruitless argumentativeness. We can disagree about doctrine and speak of our disagreements without hating and hurting one another.
Disagreements of doctrine need not become arguments; reasonable people CAN disagree.
The conclusions of this essay must be heard to be said, in my opinion, being of paramount importance to the continued existence of Nichiren Buddhism. So, to all who will listen, I offer the following propositions:
The disputants in the various inter-Nichiren debates should immediately agree to cease their angry, hateful rhetoric online and in every other forum. The forums of the individual schools should be left to those individual schools unless a member of another school invites an individual to participate. Participants in forums for those of more than one school (ecumenical forums) or as an invited guest in the forum of a particular school should behave in a courteous manner, humbly, politely, and unabusively stating his or her opinions on subjects of contention.
Attacks on persons not in a particular forum, besides being contrary to the above principles, should also cease in respect of the fact that the individual is not able to respond to them. These propositions should be applied with the spirit that each individual and each school has the right to practice as it sees fit without interference from other individuals and schools, regardless of one's personal beliefs as to that school's truth or efficacy. Doctrinal disagreements may, and should, continue, but only according to the guidelines set forth by Nichiren in "The Teaching, Practice, and Proof," with respect, politeness, humility, and freedom from abuse.
Those who would pepper me with quotes by Nichiren or others on the elimination of evil and the function of a good friend should keep this in mind: the means of combating wrong views are explicitly stated by Nichiren, who says that they should conform to the "Never Disparaging" chapter or the "Peaceful Practices" chapter. If, in that light, you feel you have a compelling argument, I am open to discussion. If, however, you simply wish to reiterate the arguments that have appeared in those forums over and over again attempting to justify negative behavior, I have read them already and this essay is written in consideration of them, so spare yourself the effort. Nor will I engage in what has been called "dueling Gosho quotes." I have read the writings of Nichiren, insofar as they are available to us all, and again have considered them in writing this essay. You may disagree on their interpretation, but you certainly do not need to make me aware of what Nichiren has written.
It is with profound respect that I submit this to the Nichiren Buddhist at large. I respect not only your faith in the Mystic Law and in all of Nichiren's teachings, but also I respect the devout fervor that I have no doubt spurs some people to the very behavior that I have addressed in this message. It is my hope that, together with all Nichiren Buddhists, we can peacefully and rationally, in accordance with the teachings of the Lotus Sutra and Nichiren, bring more people to True Buddhism, and some day practice together as a group united by what we share instead of divided by our disagreements.
Namu Myoho Renge Kyo,
Matt L. Miller"
The politician Natsuo Yamaguchi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EXKUge5ogzQ
Several comments:
1). Please go to 1:09. "Chinese students viewing Japanese fireworks will solve the poor relationship and ill feelings between China and Japan." -- Natsuo Yamaguchi paraphrased
2)."Good idea. Lets export Japanese nuclear plant technology to the world." -- Natsuo Yamaguchi paraphrased
3). Next to nothing about Fukushima.
Several comments:
1). Please go to 1:09. "Chinese students viewing Japanese fireworks will solve the poor relationship and ill feelings between China and Japan." -- Natsuo Yamaguchi paraphrased
2)."Good idea. Lets export Japanese nuclear plant technology to the world." -- Natsuo Yamaguchi paraphrased
3). Next to nothing about Fukushima.
Thursday, September 26, 2013
On rejecting and accepting
Nichiju of the Kempon Hokke taught that if any his words went against the Lotus Sutra and writings of Nichiren, they must be rejected. Same goes for me. Conversely, if they are true, they must be accepted.
Monday, September 23, 2013
Correction for Easy Daimoku of the SGI Chanting Growers Group
The Devil King of the Sixth Heaven [Dairokuten-no-mao] is the governmental authority [or shadow governmental authority] who unjustly persecutes a votary of the Lotus Sutra. Fundamental darkness or gampon no mumyo is a lack of faith in Namu Myoho renge kyo. I am no longer influenced by either. Are you?
"Leave the Soka Gakkai and you may be prone to violence, alienation, despair, and even suicide."-- SGI Newsletter No. 8835
"There may well be times when one finds it somewhat challenging to work together with other members, who may have different personalities or backgrounds. Young people, in particular, often find organisations restrictive and stifling, and many may think it is easier and more pleasant to be on one’s own. There is also a strong general tendency these days for people to try to avoid direct interaction with others. But that trend deprives us of the opportunity to make the most of our differing personalities, to praise and support one another, and to cultivate our capacities for tolerance and understanding. As a result, we may end up being unable to appreciate the pain and suffering of others, control our own anger, or patch up even small differences and misunderstandings—producing negativity that at its very worst can drive one, or cause one to drive others, to violence, alienation, despair, and even suicide. I’m sure everyone agrees this is a problem we must do something about."
Sunday, September 22, 2013
A History of the Japanese Language
Did Nichiren Daishonin chant Namu Myoho renge kyo or Nam Myoho renge kyo? I have asked Dr. Frellesvig for his opinion.
Nichiren on the Paramitas [please compare to the teachings of the false Priest Ryusho [Snicker] Shonin
"The blessings gained by arousing even a single moment of faith in and understanding of the Lotus Sutra surpass those of practicing the five paramitas; and the benefit enjoyed by the fiftieth person who rejoices on hearing the Lotus Sutra is greater than that acquired by giving alms for eighty years. The doctrine of the immediate attainment of enlightenment far outshines the doctrines of other scriptures; and the pronouncements concerning the revelation of the Buddha’s original enlightenment and his immeasurable life span are never found in any other teachings." -- Nichiren Daishonin
Ryusho [Nichiren Shu priest North Carolina] is ignorant of the Lotus Sutra and teachings of Nichiren Daishonin
To hope to gain emancipation from his teachings is as futile as attempting to cross the North Atlantic in a canoe. He is welcome to come here and debate the teachings of the Lotus Sutra and Nichiren Daishonn should he so choose. As an example of his mistaken teachings, please see his lecture on the Six Paramitas:
"Its a pretty mean organization"
"Speaking about her experiences, another former member (who prefers to remain anonymous) remains a bit bitter. Recruited by a friend at work, this spiritual searcher was intrigued by the "perfect" combination of Japanese culture and spirituality she initially saw in the organization. Her friend catered to her at first, giving her rides to meetings and spending a great deal of time with her. However, she soon became disillusioned. "What I kept seeing, especially in my friend who introduced me, was an incredible avariciousness: she had no morals; she had no qualms about anything; she just very much wanted what she wanted; She would literally chant for what she wanted for hours. While I think that can be real helpful, I saw her just taking that to a real extreme. But she would also do everything she possibly could to get what she wanted. If that meant talking about someone behind their back, she would do it, and say 'I chanted and you didn't; that's why I've got it and you don't.' Right after I got the Gohonzon, she really dropped out; there was no more interest in me; up until that point, she really catered to me: rides to meetings, rides to events. And you know I realize that in the organization it's really important to shakubuku. They have these big campaigns and big drives. Anything that's a discipline can be very helpful--when it becomes a compulsion, that can be dangerous. I know people that get very compulsive. All the analysis was just too much. If you didn't get what you wanted, they'd say that you didn't chant correctly. I mean I look at my friend, and she looks worn out; I mean literally worn out. This was supposed to be very free of guilt. Their answer for everything is chant. It's like a drug; it really is. Spiritual consciousness was equated with happiness; your happiness. I never could buy the magazine because it was all full of diluted tales. They all seemed to be written up by a bunch of bright souls down in Santa Monica; I didn't ever trust them. It's too bad; I was very disillusioned. They're always pressuring you to buy books and magazine subscriptions and this and that; their magazine is very nationalistic and that was explained to me as a consequence of anti-Japanese feeling in this country. In order to gain American acceptance, they have to take on a very American image. I wanted to have my Gohonzon de-enshrined. There's so little interest in that. You can't get anyone to come over and take it down. You've got it; you paid for it. It's yours for life...when there was so much surrounding how it went up. Now this sacred thing is not quite so sacred anymore. Looking back, I realize that it's a pretty mean organization."
http://www.savethemanatee.com/Articles/nsa.shtml
http://www.savethemanatee.com/Articles/nsa.shtml
Soka Group cult guidelines
SOKA GROUP
Welcome to the Soka Group page. Here you will find guidance, encouragement, and other information related to Soka Group members and activities.
Oklahoma Area Soka Group Chief - James Wilbanks
Tulsa Chapter Soka Group Chief - Ajay Tyagi
*** Attention Soka Group ***
*** SGI-USA General Director, Danny Nagashima, will be visiting Dallas on 16 Feb 03. If you are interested in participating in Soka Group, please contact me...James ***
With the expansion of our kosen-rufu movement and tremendous growth of the membership, the Yuhosan needed to expand its mission and function. For this reason, President Ikeda gave the Yuhosan the mission to protect the entire Soka Gakkai and to promote movement for kosen-rufu. With this new expanded mission, President Ikeda established the Soka Group on November 2, 1976. November 2 is designated as Soka Group Day in commemoration.
THREE FUNDAMENTAL SPIRITS OF SOKA GROUP
1. To Protect The Soka Gakkai
2. To Take Care Of The Members
3. To Fight Behind The Scenes
THE FIVE POINTS FOR SOKA GROUP (From President Ikeda)
1. Clear Speech
2. Accurate Reporting
3. Responsible Action
4. Neat and Clean Appearance
5. Kind Attitude
When participating in every Soka Group movement, it is very important to ensure each of the five points are instilled in each one of us. Having no accidents is 90% success of any movement. By implementing these five points in our actions during a movement, we can prevent any accidents from happening. In that sense, each Soka Group member should have the seriousness to engrave these five points in our lives and always keep them in our minds when doing a movement.
The way to successfully impelement these five points in our actions is through sincere daimoku. Through our daimoku, we summon forth the wisdom to take the proper actions at all times and under any circumstances. That is why before any movement, it is strongly recommended that all Soka Group chant at least one hour and sincerely pray for the total success of the activity. Thre may be times, when you will not be able to do so, and that is why we should strive to chant abundant daimoku every day.
UNIFORM:
Oklahoma Area Soka Group Chief - James Wilbanks
Tulsa Chapter Soka Group Chief - Ajay Tyagi
*** Attention Soka Group ***
*** SGI-USA General Director, Danny Nagashima, will be visiting Dallas on 16 Feb 03. If you are interested in participating in Soka Group, please contact me...James ***
With the expansion of our kosen-rufu movement and tremendous growth of the membership, the Yuhosan needed to expand its mission and function. For this reason, President Ikeda gave the Yuhosan the mission to protect the entire Soka Gakkai and to promote movement for kosen-rufu. With this new expanded mission, President Ikeda established the Soka Group on November 2, 1976. November 2 is designated as Soka Group Day in commemoration.
THREE FUNDAMENTAL SPIRITS OF SOKA GROUP
1. To Protect The Soka Gakkai
2. To Take Care Of The Members
3. To Fight Behind The Scenes
THE FIVE POINTS FOR SOKA GROUP (From President Ikeda)
1. Clear Speech
2. Accurate Reporting
3. Responsible Action
4. Neat and Clean Appearance
5. Kind Attitude
When participating in every Soka Group movement, it is very important to ensure each of the five points are instilled in each one of us. Having no accidents is 90% success of any movement. By implementing these five points in our actions during a movement, we can prevent any accidents from happening. In that sense, each Soka Group member should have the seriousness to engrave these five points in our lives and always keep them in our minds when doing a movement.
The way to successfully impelement these five points in our actions is through sincere daimoku. Through our daimoku, we summon forth the wisdom to take the proper actions at all times and under any circumstances. That is why before any movement, it is strongly recommended that all Soka Group chant at least one hour and sincerely pray for the total success of the activity. Thre may be times, when you will not be able to do so, and that is why we should strive to chant abundant daimoku every day.
UNIFORM:
National uniforms have been established for all Soka Group members to wear during each movement, which is also included as "dress and appearsance". The uniform will consist of the following:
1. Proper hygiene - please be clean and minimize cologne
2. Hairstyle and facial hair - please hair is well-kept and facial hair is properly groomed.
3. No earrings, nose rings or jewelry worn outside the Soka Group uniform.
4. To create a national unity, the following Soka Group uniform is recommended. - Khaki pants, beige or tan (shorts can be allowed if weather is applicable) and standard navy blue polo shirt, which is always tucked in the pants. (Shirt - $25.00)
5. Belt with buckle.
6. Soka Group I.D. Badge
7. Flashlight with fresh batteries (Night activities)
8. Notepad with two pens
9. Cell phone and also change for payphones
10. No sandals or open toes shoes
BECOMING A SOKA GROUP MEMBER
If you are interested in becoming a Soka Group Member, here are some guidelines that you must follow. First you must have the determination and sincerity to want to improve your life. As young men, we are endowned with the power and passion of youth. The question is, how and where can we channel these qualities of being a young man in the most positive way. Soka Group is for those young men who seriously ponder this point, who don't want to idly waste away their youth in superficial pleasures. This is the main requirement. In addition, the following are guidelines for joining Soka Group:
2. Hairstyle and facial hair - please hair is well-kept and facial hair is properly groomed.
3. No earrings, nose rings or jewelry worn outside the Soka Group uniform.
4. To create a national unity, the following Soka Group uniform is recommended. - Khaki pants, beige or tan (shorts can be allowed if weather is applicable) and standard navy blue polo shirt, which is always tucked in the pants. (Shirt - $25.00)
5. Belt with buckle.
6. Soka Group I.D. Badge
7. Flashlight with fresh batteries (Night activities)
8. Notepad with two pens
9. Cell phone and also change for payphones
10. No sandals or open toes shoes
BECOMING A SOKA GROUP MEMBER
If you are interested in becoming a Soka Group Member, here are some guidelines that you must follow. First you must have the determination and sincerity to want to improve your life. As young men, we are endowned with the power and passion of youth. The question is, how and where can we channel these qualities of being a young man in the most positive way. Soka Group is for those young men who seriously ponder this point, who don't want to idly waste away their youth in superficial pleasures. This is the main requirement. In addition, the following are guidelines for joining Soka Group:
1. To be a member of SGI-USA Young Men's Division
2. Preferably to be at least 18 years old and no older than 35 years old.
3. To be actively participating in the frontlines of district
meetings.
4. To be subscribing to the World Tribune
5. To be home visited by at least a YMD Chapter leader and Soka
Group Region leader.
Once a member of Soka Group, the following are guidelines for Soka Group members to challenge:
1. To chant one hour a day
2. To study the Gosho once a day
3. To study President Ikeda's guidance once a day
4. To fully support Soka Spirit activities in the frontlines of
our organization
5. To introduce at least one person to Nichiren Buddhism a year
6. To conduct two heart-to-heart dialogues a week
THE UNDERLYING DRIVING FORCE FOR ALL SOKA GROUP IN FULFILLING THESE GUIDELINES: SHAKABUKU!!!
If you are interested in becoming a Soka Group member, please contact your District/Chapter leader, or you can contact James Wilbanks (Oklahoma City) or Ajay Tyagi (Tulsa). We would be more than happy to further discuss your desires.
2. Preferably to be at least 18 years old and no older than 35 years old.
3. To be actively participating in the frontlines of district
meetings.
4. To be subscribing to the World Tribune
5. To be home visited by at least a YMD Chapter leader and Soka
Group Region leader.
Once a member of Soka Group, the following are guidelines for Soka Group members to challenge:
1. To chant one hour a day
2. To study the Gosho once a day
3. To study President Ikeda's guidance once a day
4. To fully support Soka Spirit activities in the frontlines of
our organization
5. To introduce at least one person to Nichiren Buddhism a year
6. To conduct two heart-to-heart dialogues a week
THE UNDERLYING DRIVING FORCE FOR ALL SOKA GROUP IN FULFILLING THESE GUIDELINES: SHAKABUKU!!!
If you are interested in becoming a Soka Group member, please contact your District/Chapter leader, or you can contact James Wilbanks (Oklahoma City) or Ajay Tyagi (Tulsa). We would be more than happy to further discuss your desires.
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Hank Johnson Congressman and proud SGI member vigorously supports the defense department
Please go to 11:58
"So that they can understand us better."
Hei No Saemon to Nichiren
"You will be a good boy now won't you?" [after persecuting Nichiren for 21 years].
Nichiren: Hehe
Nichiren: Hehe
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Surprise Surprise
United States Attorneys' impropriety may lead to the release of the New Orleans Five.
http://www.heraldstandard.com/united_states_ap/new-trial-ordered-in-post-katrina-bridge-killings/article_ac32d7f8-65ba-5126-8b5a-070d315bcdf6.html
http://www.heraldstandard.com/united_states_ap/new-trial-ordered-in-post-katrina-bridge-killings/article_ac32d7f8-65ba-5126-8b5a-070d315bcdf6.html
An Essay by Stephen Shonin Paine
The Ancient Text State that if the People do nothing to protect Buddhism but instead stand by and watch it be destroyed;
Note* When scholars of ancient text read revelation from the Bible they clearly can see they are plagiarized passages from more profound works written much early by great sages and enlightened beings like Buddha (610 BC), Dengyo Dashi (767-822), Nichiren Shonin (1222-1282) and so on . .
I find it shallow that people would refer to works that were produced later in the 14th century like those of Michel de Nostredame (depending on the source, 14 or 21 December 1503 – 2 July 1566), when there are ancient text like even those by Nichiren below quoted some two hundred years before Nostradamus. And not to put down Nostradamus but at least Nichiren Shonin referred to the ancient text when he made a prophecy that by the way have actually come true which can be seen in Japan today and across the world just in those he makes below.
Nichiren also bases his understanding of the future on the "Three Thousand Worlds in a Momentary Existence," the most important principle expounded by Shakyamuni Buddha some 2700 years ago in his preaching of the Lotus Sutra. Thus, this principle is "life and environment are one, i.e. we are one with our environment, not separate, and the land in which we live is affected by the minds of the people and how they live and treat their environment. That is to say, our environment is a reflection of the minds of the majority of the people.
So for Buddhist that understand is cause and effect, i.e. karma; thus, they can see the affect coming. It is not some prophecy, it is just common sense. If we treat mother earth and each other with deception, lies, hate and death then the place in which we live will become a mirror of those causes, just as it has.
So honestly this is hard to say, but I think it needs to be said, humanity has failed, we do not deserve this beautiful world. Evil has taken over good, and the innocent are being terrorized, and all the "fighting spirits" are running rampant, it is just as Nichiren said it would be in the "Latter day of the Law," (Mappo, state of confusion, denigrated age). Thus, all the good deities and good spirits have left our country.
Good people in our government have failed to act when humanities hour of need was there, but instead joined the other side. While Americans and people across the globe are so ignorant and blind to fall for ancient malevolent wicked teachings found in the Bibles and Qur'an that aided the Illuminati in their plans for the New World Order; despite the mountain of evidence the world placed before the brainwashed religious slaves on the right. So by our apathy, and complacency, but mostly it has been the American Christian arrogance which like Rome has been the down fall of all humanity among other darker means that are tied together like wasp.
The Ancient Text State that if the People do nothing to protect Buddhism but instead stand by and watch it be destroyed; the land in which they live will also be destroyed.
If you want to understand why the world is in such turmoil today; one only needs to simply examine the ancient text.
The facts are the world has worked to destroy Buddhism and the good Law, and this government also has worked to obstruct the Lotus Sutra which is not a religion but the natural law that governs all things.
[Dear President Obama, Please release Bradley Manning and stop trying to prosecute Edward Snowden for they are only the voice]: https://www.facebook.com/notes/stephen-paine/dear-president-obama-please-release-bradley-manning-and-stop-trying-to-prosecute/10201691894758431
Thus, the world throughout history has trampled on Buddhism and thus as the Sutra states all the good deities and the guardian good spirit of Buddhism have left this realm because they see no goodness left, and if there are any left we should praise them for their patients because I too feel as if no one cares to even hear the good Law of the middle way, but instead cling to lesser things, and malevolent ancient Monotheistic doctrines that have been proven to be forgeries and evil works that only cause misery and destruction. But none will listen to reason.
Nichiren Shonin’s, Rissho Ankoku Ron States:
The Traveler inquired:
It is not I alone but all of the people who are grieving over these calamities of recent years affecting the entire land of Japan. Now that I am able to see you and listen to your respectable opinion, I would like to ask in what sutra it is stated that calamities and disasters occur in succession because the gods and sages deserted this country. What is the evidence for this?
The master responded:
Many scriptures state this. Let me cite some of them. The Four Heavenly Kings (four guardian kings of Buddhism: Jikoku, Zocho, Komoku, and Bishamon) declare to the Buddha in the Golden Splendor Sutra (Konko-myo-kyo):
Suppose there is a king in a country where this sutra exists but has never been spread at all because the king would rather not recognize it or praise it. Even if he meets with the four kinds of Buddhists (monks, nuns, male followers and female followers) who uphold the sutra, he would not respect them or make offerings to them. As a result we, Four Heavenly Kings, our disciples and various gods will be unable to hear the teachings of this wonderful dharma, taste the nectar of the True Dharma, and bathe in the stream of the True Dharma. In the end we all will lose our authority and power, allowing only the spirits of the four evil realms(hell, realms of hungry spirits, beasts, and fighting spirits) to grow rampant in the land at the cost of heavenly and human spirits. People will all fall into the river of life and death, namely the realms of spiritual darkness and evil passion, losing the way to Nirvana.
World-Honored One! Seeing this, we, Four Heavenly Kings, our disciples and others like the yaksa demons will give up this land, not wishing to defend it. It is not we alone who will abandon this king. Even if numerous protective gods exist to guard his country, I am sure they all will abandon it.
When we, the guardian deities and protective gods, all abandon this kingdom, various disasters will befall it, and the king will be dethroned. All the people in the kingdom will lose compassion;arresting, killing, fighting, accusing, and flattering one another, causing even innocent people to suffer.
Epidemics will spread widely; comets will appear often: two suns will rise at the same time; the sun and moon will eclipse at random; two rainbows, black ones and white ones, will appear foretelling misfortune; meteors will often be seen; the earth will quake;voices will be heard in wells; unseasonal storms will occur; famine will not end; tress and plants will bear no fruit; and many foreign bandits will invade the land. Thus the people will suffer in every way, finding no place to live in peace in this kingdom.
Next, it is stated in the Sutra of the Great Assembly (Dai-jikkyo):
When Buddhism is about to disappear, the monks will grow whiskers and hair, their fingernails will lengthen and they will forget Buddhist precepts.
Then great voices will ring out in the sky,the earth will quake, and everything will revolve like a hydraulic turbine.City walls will collapse and all houses will crumble without exception. Tree roots, branches, leaves, flowers, and fruits, and with their flavors will disappear. With the exception of the Heavens of Pure Inhabitants (Jogo-ten),where resides sages who have reached the stage of not having to b reborn in the six realms of transmigration, everywhere else in the world of evil passion, the seven flavors (sweetness, hotness, sourness, bitterness, saltiness, astringency and lightness) and three energies (of earth, dharma, and human beings) will be lost completely. Various discourses leading to emancipation will all disappear then, (predictions of Calamities in Sutras, pg. 28, Noppa).
Notice Monotheism's "four Angels", and as cited in Nichiren's Rissho Ankoku Ron, the "Four Heavenly Kings." Parallels?
STRANGE SOUNDS heard worldwide / This is one of them (Texas)
Strange Noises in the Sky...Trumpets of the Apocalypse?
Strange sounds all over the World:
Strange Sounds & Explosions Worldwide
So Judaism, Christianity and Islam all your prayers have been answered, your Armageddon has arrived; so congratulation and I hope you are all very happy. Manifest destiny really does work.
SOLAR FLARE to END HUMANITY in 2013 - REMOTE VIEWIN
Edward Snowden:Solar-Flare 'Killshot' Cataclysm Imminent
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6aEWrqLraqo
Incidentally, if this is true and with all the disinformation and information out there who really knows what is true or not true; but ultimately it is an attack either way; if our government is holding back this information then that explains a lot. Thus, when do we all decide when this propaganda war will stop because if this is a false warning to instill fear then this is a mind game, a psychological terrorist attack upon America right here, is it not?
Be sure myself and those good friends I know that also take refuge in the "Three Jewels" (Buddha, Dharma, Sangha) will all ascends to the Buddha land, but we shall pray for all those that have spoke ill of Buddhism and have done nothing to protect it; as we have great compassion for all living things drowning in the sea of suffering, transmigrating for eons in misery, life time, after life time falling into lower realms by their bad karma brought on by the wrong causes,and wrong prayer.
The Original Buddha (Shakymuni Buddha)
An eternal golden light of Great Compassion brought the good medicine of the Lotus light, and all but a few can understand it or even hear it; like the Mahaparanirvanasutra states, "those that attain Enlightenment will be like the grains of sand on a finger nail."
I recommend people take refuge in the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha and chant, Namu Myoho renge kyo, and read and copy the Lotus Sutra as much as possible during these next 30 days. It will save and liberate you without question.
I am here for anyone that needs help with any thing I am able to help with. I can help others with how to recite the sutra and chant the Odaimoku (Namu Myoho renge kyo) if they are interested.
I pray all living things will accord with the mind of the Buddha, and all shall become the Buddha’s land! I make my most sincere prayer request to all the Buddhist gods that by the divine wind of the Buddha Dharma may the world be spared from such destruction of being burned by “The Great Fires” or by internal strife or foreign invasion.
One of my most dear passages from the Lotus Sutra chapter 16 that I believe fit this time.
Lifespan chapter 16 Lotus sutra:
The masses of beings see the kalpas exhausted. When they are burned by the great fires; This land of mine is peaceful and secure; Gods and humans ever fill it. Gardens and forest and various halls and pavilions, With various types of jewels adorned; On the jeweled trees many flowers and fruits, Wherein the masses of beings take pleasure and rejoice. The gods strike the celestial drums, Ever making instrumental music, Raining mandara flowers, Scattering them over the Buddha and the great assemblies. Though My pure Land is not destroyed, Yet the masses see it burned up, Worrisome fears and agonizing sufferings And such things all filling it up; These beings of various sins, Because of the causes and conditions of their evil karma. Though they pass through asamkheyas of kalpas;Do not hear the name of the Three jewels. Those who have preformed merit; Who are gentle and plaint, simple and upright, Then all see my body.”
Namu Myoho renge kyo!
Always,
Reverend Stephen Shonin