Beholding the living body of the Buddha Shakyamuni.

 "....but Shakyamuni [by bestowing upon us the character myo] has granted us as many benefits as if we ourselves had fulfilled all the practices of the six paramitas"

 "And among the Sutras, the Lotus Sutra is a manifestation in writing of Shakyamuni Buddha's intent; it is his voice set down in written word."

"Shakyamuni Buddha and the written words of the Lotus Sutra are two different things but their heart is one.  Therefore, when you cast your eyes upon  the words of the Lotus Sutra you should consider that you are beholding the living body of the Buddha Shakyamuni."

"However the Buddha recognizes each character as a golden Lord Shakyamuni.' This is the meaning of the statement that '[one who is able to hold this Sutra] thereby holds the Buddha's body' "

"The Son of Heaven utters not a single word in vain' and 'the words of the Dharma King contain no falsehood'.  A wise ruler will never lie, even if it should bring about his ruin.  How much less would Shakyamuni Buddha ever speak falsely!"

"Only the Lotus Sutra represents the wonderful teaching preached directly from the golden mouth of Shakyamuni Buddha, who is perfectly endowed with the three bodies."

"The nation of Japan today has turned its back on the Lotus Sutra and cast aside Shakyamuni Buddha."

"Therefore, the words of this Sutra are indeed the very soul of  Shakyamuni Buddha. And since every single word constitutes the soul of the Buddha, Shakyamuni Buddha will protect persons who practice this Sutra as though he were protecting his very own eyes. He will accompany such persons just as a shadow accompanies a body.  How then could the prayers of such persons not be answered."

"In the same volume in the Lotus Sutra, the Buddha says, 'for the sake of the Buddha way I have in countless different lands from the begining until now widely preached various sutras, but among them this Sutra is foremost'.  This passage means that Shakyamuni Buddha has appeared in countless lands, taking different names and assuming varying life spans."

"I Nichiren, humble person though I am, have recieved Lord Shakyamuni's royal command and come to this country of Japan."