Some of Ikedaism's silly songs
"Sensei, For You"
Lyrics by Brian Potter
Music by Wayne Green
Through your eyes, we see the dream unfold.
In your words, we hear the thunder roll.
Each day we seek your wisdom,
as our voyage begins anew.
Hurry home, hurry home,
we're calling for you.
In your words, we hear the thunder roll.
Each day we seek your wisdom,
as our voyage begins anew.
Hurry home, hurry home,
we're calling for you.
Sensei, we're waiting
We're reaching to touch your heart.
We're ready to play our part
in your great dream.
All our tomorrows
are shiny and new.
We'll fight forever,
Sensei, for you.
By your side, we strive in unity.
Far and wide, so all the world can see.
With bold determination,
hopeful hearts, and joyful tears,
we'll go on -- ever on
through all of our years.
Far and wide, so all the world can see.
With bold determination,
hopeful hearts, and joyful tears,
we'll go on -- ever on
through all of our years.
Sensei, we're waiting
We're reaching to touch your heart.
We're ready to play our part
in your great dream.
All our tomorrows
are shiny and new.
We'll fight forever,
Sensei, for you.
We'll fight forever,
Sensei, for you.
Sensei, for you.
"Sensei Oh Sensei"
Lyrics by Unknown
Music by Unknown
Sensei oh Sensei
You being mentor of my life
I could see where the
Buddhahood lies
You being mentor of my life
I could see where the
Buddhahood lies
Sensei when I am in trouble
Your guidance keeps me calm
And your spirit polishes me to shine
Your guidance keeps me calm
And your spirit polishes me to shine
Sensei oh Sensei
You being mentor of my life
I could see where the
Buddhahood lies
You being mentor of my life
I could see where the
Buddhahood lies
Deep in my heart, Gohonzon is in me
And I am the messenger of the Buddha X2
I struggle to defeat, when devil challenges me
And I chant to be the Buddha
And I am the messenger of the Buddha X2
I struggle to defeat, when devil challenges me
And I chant to be the Buddha
Sensei oh Sensei
You being mentor of my life
I could see where the
Buddhahood lies
You being mentor of my life
I could see where the
Buddhahood lies
Life is so interesting, there are always ups and downs
And I am the fighter in the revolution X2
When suffering only deepens and hope disappears
I could see the dawn after dark
And I am the fighter in the revolution X2
When suffering only deepens and hope disappears
I could see the dawn after dark
Sensei oh Sensei
You being mentor of my life
I could see where the
Buddhahood lies
You being mentor of my life
I could see where the
Buddhahood lies
Sensei when I am in trouble
Your guidance keeps me calm
And your spirit polishes me to shine
Your guidance keeps me calm
And your spirit polishes me to shine
Sensei oh Sensei
You being mentor of my life
I could see where the
Buddhahood lies
You being mentor of my life
I could see where the
Buddhahood lies
"I Seek Sensei"
Lyrics by Unknown
Music by Unknown
No more tears, no more doubt, no pretense; now I will run along the path of happiness
My heart is brimming with courage and joy; and I will grow with all my might every day
(*) And this is my life, I'm gonna give it all to kosen-rufu, my mission � endlessly
And this is my song of total victory; and I determine, I determine
My heart is brimming with courage and joy; and I will grow with all my might every day
(*) And this is my life, I'm gonna give it all to kosen-rufu, my mission � endlessly
And this is my song of total victory; and I determine, I determine
(Chorus 1)
No matter what, I'll surely win
Never give up, never give in
To reaffirm, my youthful vow
In every way, I seek Sensei
No matter what, I'll surely win
Never give up, never give in
To reaffirm, my youthful vow
In every way, I seek Sensei
No more complaint, no more fear, no regret; we will be stronger than we were yesterday
Life is a journey, it has ups and downs; now let us challenge them all boldly
And we shall sail now on the winds of global peace
Come let's discover the shining world of faith
Can you feel the rhythm of an inner symphony, I sure can feel it, I can feel it
Life is a journey, it has ups and downs; now let us challenge them all boldly
And we shall sail now on the winds of global peace
Come let's discover the shining world of faith
Can you feel the rhythm of an inner symphony, I sure can feel it, I can feel it
(Chorus 2)
The sunlight fills, my joyous heart
I sail along, this wondrous path
The darkness in, my life is gone
A brilliant light, from the sun within
The sunlight fills, my joyous heart
I sail along, this wondrous path
The darkness in, my life is gone
A brilliant light, from the sun within
Background score
Repeat (*)
Repeat (*)
Chorus 1
Pitch change
Chorus 2
Chorus 1
Pitch change
Chorus 2
Chorus 1
To end, repeat
I seek Sensei
I seek Sensei (slower)
I seek Sensei
I seek Sensei (slower)
"Forever Sensei"
Lyrics by Unknown
Music by Unknown
Morning sun's shining bright.
La la la la la.
Facing the sky, spirits are high,
Gongyo fills our hearts with joy.
La la la la la.
Facing the sky, spirits are high,
Gongyo fills our hearts with joy.
Arm in arm, together we climb.
The sun is breaking through.
Sensei, our lives are growing.
Sensei, our tears are flowing,
as shining eyes call to you.
Sensei, Sensei. Forever, Sensei.
The sun is breaking through.
Sensei, our lives are growing.
Sensei, our tears are flowing,
as shining eyes call to you.
Sensei, Sensei. Forever, Sensei.
Mid-day sun's burning bright.
La la la la la.
Courage is found,
hope is the sound.
Shakubuku is the way.
La la la la la.
Courage is found,
hope is the sound.
Shakubuku is the way.
Arm in arm, together we climb.
The sun is breaking through.
Sensei, our lives are growing.
Sensei, our tears are flowing,
as shining eyes call to you.
Sensei, Sensei. Forever, Sensei.
The sun is breaking through.
Sensei, our lives are growing.
Sensei, our tears are flowing,
as shining eyes call to you.
Sensei, Sensei. Forever, Sensei.
Moonlight smiling in the night.
La la la la la.
Tomorrow's dreams, calling to all.
Za - da - n - ka - i
La la la la la.
Tomorrow's dreams, calling to all.
Za - da - n - ka - i
Arm in arm, together we climb.
The sun is breaking through.
Sensei, our lives are growing.
Sensei, our tears are flowing,
as shining eyes call to you.
Sensei, Sensei. Forever, Sensei.
"Dear Sensei"
Lyrics by Unknown
Music by Unknown
We've been waiting for you night and day
It's been so long since you came this way
We keep thinking of you everyday
With deep gratitude we pray
It's been so long since you came this way
We keep thinking of you everyday
With deep gratitude we pray
Come again
To our Buddha land X 2
To our Buddha land X 2
Today seems so much brighter than yesterday
Fighting alongside with you everyday
Thank you for showing us the way
With deep gratitude we pray
Fighting alongside with you everyday
Thank you for showing us the way
With deep gratitude we pray
Come again
To our Buddha land X 4
To our Buddha land X 4
Like the mighty river heading for the sea
Bodhisattvas one in harmony
The mystic law unfolds eternally
Bringing peace into the life of every being
Bodhisattvas one in harmony
The mystic law unfolds eternally
Bringing peace into the life of every being
Come again
To our Buddha land (repeat till end)
To our Buddha land (repeat till end)
Sensei
"My Mentor and I"
A beautiful song from Soka Gakkai International (SGI) . APTLY TITLED mY MENTOR AND i LYRICS BELOW
We are walking the path, my Mentor and I
On the wings of our mission, together we fly
Far to the east, and far to the west
Not stopping not knowing, a moment of rest
We are walking the path, my Mentor and I
Turning sorrow to happiness, tears to smiles
Playing our part, yet one in our heart
Turning new leaf and make everyday a new start
Never retreating over worries or fear
We are moving ahead with our strength of our prayer
And this moment striving for, sake of tomorrow
what a wonderful feeling this is
We are walking the path, my Mentor and I
Saving all of humanities are our cry
No one will watch over , No one will see
But we strive and we toil, to change history
You cause my spirit to soar in the SKY
To dance and to sing and turn darkness to light
It is me and the power that lies within my life
what a wonderful feeling this is
We are walking the path, my Mentor and I
On the wings of our mission, together we fly
Far to the east, and far to the west
Not stopping not knowing, a moment of rest
We are walking the path, my Mentor and I
Turning sorrow to happiness, tears to smiles
Playing our part, yet one in our heart
Turning new leaf and make everyday a new start
On and on in our journey of peace
we will touch every heart, every life we will reach
This is our vow, there is no stopping for us now
what a wonderful feeling this is
what a wonderful feeling this is
what a wonderful feeling this is
WIN , LETS WIN AS ONE WITH SENSEI
We are walking the path, my Mentor and I
On the wings of our mission, together we fly
Far to the east, and far to the west
Not stopping not knowing, a moment of rest
We are walking the path, my Mentor and I
Turning sorrow to happiness, tears to smiles
Playing our part, yet one in our heart
Turning new leaf and make everyday a new start
Never retreating over worries or fear
We are moving ahead with our strength of our prayer
And this moment striving for, sake of tomorrow
what a wonderful feeling this is
We are walking the path, my Mentor and I
Saving all of humanities are our cry
No one will watch over , No one will see
But we strive and we toil, to change history
You cause my spirit to soar in the SKY
To dance and to sing and turn darkness to light
It is me and the power that lies within my life
what a wonderful feeling this is
We are walking the path, my Mentor and I
On the wings of our mission, together we fly
Far to the east, and far to the west
Not stopping not knowing, a moment of rest
We are walking the path, my Mentor and I
Turning sorrow to happiness, tears to smiles
Playing our part, yet one in our heart
Turning new leaf and make everyday a new start
On and on in our journey of peace
we will touch every heart, every life we will reach
This is our vow, there is no stopping for us now
what a wonderful feeling this is
what a wonderful feeling this is
what a wonderful feeling this is
LET’S WIN
WIN , LETS WIN AS ONE WITH SENSEI
WIN , LETS WIN AS ONE WITH SENSEI
LETS FIGHT TOGETHER TO WIN OVER EVIL
WIN , LETS WIN AS ONE WITH SENSEI
LETS WALK THE PATH OF MENTOR DISCIPLE
LETS FORGE AHEAD TO BE AN EXAMPLE (2)
LIVE UNDEFEATED, LETS GO WHERE WE ARE NEEDED
TO LIVE IN THE SPIRIT OF SENSEI
WIN , LETS WIN AS ONE WITH SENSEI
WIN , LETS WIN AS ONE WITH SENSEI
LETS FIGHT TOGETHER TO WIN OVER EVIL
WIN , LETS WIN AS ONE WITH SENSEI
BRAVELY WE’LL OVERCOME EVERY OBSTACLE
FAITH CAN MAKE IMPOSSIBLE POSSIBLE (2)
SHOW OUR VICTORY ,LETS CREATE HISTORY
IN THE HONOUR OF SENSEI
WIN , LETS WIN AS ONE WITH SENSEI
WIN , LETS WIN AS ONE WITH SENSEI
LETS FIGHT TOGETHER TO WIN OVER EVIL
WIN , LETS WIN AS ONE WITH SENSEI
UNITED WE STAND ,WALK HAND IN HAND
WE’LL MAKE THIS COUNTRY OUR BUDDHA LAND (2)
MANY IN BODY ,BUT ONE IN MIND
WE VOW TO WIN WITH SENSEI
WIN , LETS WIN AS ONE WITH SENSEI
WIN , LETS WIN AS ONE WITH SENSEI
LETS FIGHT TOGETHER TO WIN OVER EVIL
WIN , LETS WIN AS ONE WITH SENSEI
LETS LIVE OUR LIVES WITH DETERMINATION
LET SHARE WITH OTHERS OUR DEEP CONVICTION (2)
LETS HAVE NO FEARS, NO WORRY,NO TEARS
BE VICTORS OF LIFE FOR SENSEI
(REPEAT CHORUS –WIN ,LET’S WIN !)
LETS MARCH AHEAD WITH SENSEI....................... (8)
.......................MUSIC..
TAKING THE BATON / FROM OUR MENTOR
LETS US MOVE AHEAD / SELFLESSLY
WITH COURAGE / AND CONVICTION
LET US SHAPE UP OUR DESTINY
LET US CLIMB THE MOUNTAINS OF 21ST CENTURY
TAKING A SOLEMN PLEDGE TO SHOW VICTORY..........(2)
LETS MARCH AHEAD WITH SENSEI........................
WITH KOSENRUFU / AS OUR MISSION
LETS WORK FOR PEOPLE'S / HAPPINESS
LETS PRAY FOR UNIVERSAL / PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP
WITH THE MYSTIC / JEWEL WE POSSESS
LET US CLIMB THE MOUNTAINS OF 21ST CENTURY
TAKING A SOLEMN PLEDGE TO SHOW VICTORY..........(2)
..............................
LETS MARCH AHEAD WITH SENSEI........................
THROUGH OUR HUMAN / REVOLUTION
LET SHOW THE PROOF OF / OUR FAITH
STRENGHTHENING OUR PRACTICE / AND STUDY
LET US LIVE / THE SOKA WAY
LET US CLIMB THE MOUNTAINS OF 21ST CENTURY
TAKING A SOLEMN PLEDGE TO SHOW VICTORY..........(2)
LETS MARCH AHEAD WITH SENSEI........................
LET US RAISE THE / FLAG OF JUSTICE
TAKING OBSTACLES / IN OUR STRIDE
WITH A BRAVE AND / VIGOROUS PRACTICE
LETS STAND ALONE WITH / COURAGE AND PRIDE
LET US CLIMB THE MOUNTAINS OF 21ST CENTURY
TAKING A SOLEMN PLEDGE TO SHOW VICTORY..........(2)
LETS BLAZE THE TRAIL OF FREINDSHIP
LETS BLAZE THE TRAIL OF TRUST
LETS BUILD THE BRIDGE OF PEACE AND CULTURE
WITH PERFECT UNITY
LETS MARCH AHEAD WITH SENSEI..
Sensei I am here
Was I there when my mentor gave the call?
To take the law to all…..The mystic law to all
Did I see Mount Fuji standing tall?
And work with the resolve
To never ever fall
Did I feel the warm glow on that cold mountain day?
Burning bright in the heart of one and all
Was I there to spell a mission in the dew drops of the grass?
To wash the pain of every land big or small
Yes I was, Yes I was
Was I there at the great Eagle Peak
To hear the Buddha speak…..The truth that we seek
Did I rise on the fresh wings of hope?
With every word he spoke
To clear every slope
Was I near the Daishonin when the law was revealed?
Did my voice join his to sing along?
Was I there to protect him when the devils did rise?
Was I with him when ….was I strong?
Yes I was, Yes I was
Now I came in this age of despair
No effort I’ve spared…..To comfort and care
It’s my mission of Sensei I swear
This I declare, Yes, I’ll be there
To wipe every tear, to banish all fear
To help everyone persevere
I will light every heart with the light of the law
I will make the Buddha land right here
Yes, my Buddha land is right here
Yes, I’m here…Yes, I’m here
Now I’m here, O Sensei I’m here
SENSEI OH SENSEI
Sensei oh Sensei
You being mentor of my life
I could see where the Buddhahood lies
Sensei when I am in trouble
Your guidance keeps me calm
And your spirit polishes me to shine
Sensei oh Sensei
You being mentor of my life
I could see where the Buddhahood lies
Deep in my heart, Gohonzon is in me
And I’m the messenger of the Buddha
And I’m the messenger of the Buddha
I struggle to defeat, when devil challenge me
And I chant to be the Buddha
Sensei oh Sensei
You being mentor of my life
I could see where the Buddhahood lies
Life is so interesting; there are always ups and downs
And I’m the fighter in the revolution
And I am the fighter in the revolution
When suffering only deepens and hopes disappears
I could see the dawn after dark
Sensei oh Sensei
You being mentor of my life
I could see where the Buddhahood lies
Together we’ll change the world
Our world is full of strife and war
And people are dying in pain
Come friends, it’s time we fought for peace
Together, we’ll change the world
Just like our Sensei, We will show them the way
Brim with hope for a brand new day
When we fight without a doubt
Together, we’ll change the world
There are walls of hatred and distrust
And people are living in shells
Come friends, its time we set them free
Together, we’ll change the world
Just like our Sensei, We will show them the way
Brim with hope for a brand new day
When we fight without a doubt
Together, we’ll change the world
We walk the path of the world Honored One
Promise we made in the distant past
Armed with the law we boldly go forth
Changing the destiny
There are homes of silence and discord
And Children are going astray
Come friends, it’s time we opened their eyes
Together, we’ll change the world
Just like our Sensei, We will show them the way
Brim with hope for a brand new day
WE’LL GO ON AND ON
Cha chara Cha chara…Cha… ra ra………Twice
We are marching ahead in unison, Lighting up the way
With courage in our hearts for a mission, We resolve once more today
To be one with our mentor, make his vision our center
And to win each and every day, to conquer every weakness
And recover every sickness, and win over every hurdle we face
We know that the road to world peace… is long
But we’re gonna stop at nothing, we’ll go on and on and on….
We are marching ahead in unison, lighting up the way
With courage in our hearts for a mission, we resolve once more today
To suffer what there is to suffer, only moving on together
Crushing obstacles that comes our way,
Endure the stormy weather, hoping in our hearts forever
That the night will always turn to day
And even if the winter of our lives… seem long
Amidst the raging waves, we’ll feel, we’ll go on and on and on…
Music
Without giving in to my desires, we’ll give our life for the law
With a pure and brave spirit as our possession
And an ever-strengthening resolve
We are marching ahead in unison, Lighting up the way
With courage in our hearts for a mission, we resolve once more today
To stand up right beside you, and forever to continue
Winning bonds of trust and friendship everyway… everyway
And Sensei, Don’t you worry, we’ll never lose your glory
Proudly stand up today we all declare
That we’ll raise the flag of peace and culture, across the world..
Standing tall to the challenge of the future, we’ll go on and on and on…
We are marching ahead in unison, Lighting up the way
With courage in our hearts for a mission, we resolve once more today
To be one with our mentor, make his vision our center
And to win each and every day,
To conquer every weakness, and recover every sickness
And win over every hurdle we face
We know that the road to world peace… is long
But we’re gonna stop at nothing, we’ll go on and on, and on….
TOTAL VICTORY
Thirty one years ago
You came to our land
The seed you sowed has grown
And today we proudly stand
Disciples who, will follow you
On the glorious path of world wide kosen rufu
This path is not so easy
There are problems to be solved
Of health an home and karma
Which we’ll challenge to resolve
From you, we’ve learnt to carry on
In our joyful struggle for a brave new dawn
Welcome back sensei
Into our hearts and homes
Come inspire us, to learn to stand alone
For the one true goal of peace
We’ll make your dream our own
Your life is like a beacon
Compassionate and bright
Our lives are full of gratitude
For Your wisdom and foresight
You worked to spread, the mystic law
For the peace and happiness of all mankind
Buddhism is win or loose
Half measures lead now ever
Faith and strong conviction
Will surely take us there
We welcome you to joyfully
Celebrate in our total victory
Welcome back sensei
Into our hearts and homes
Come inspire us, to learn to stand alone
For the one true goal of peace
We’ll make your dream our own
For the one true goal of peace
We’ll make your dream our own
I WILL SENSEI
CLOUDS ARE DARK, THERES LASHING RAIN, BUT IT'S THE SUN BEHIND THAT I WILL CLAIM THE ROAD IS LONG, THE CLIMB IS STEEP, BUT THERE'S A PROMISE I MUST KEEP IT IS A VOW, IT IS A DREAM, NO MATTER HOW FAR IT MAY SEEM I'LL CARRY ON, THROUGH EVERY STROM, WITH YOUR HEART TILL ETERNITY.
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, SHINE BRIGHT LIKE YOU, AND SHOW THE WAY
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, LIVE EVERY WORD YOU SAY.
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, SHINE BRIGHT LIKE YOU, AND SHOW THE WAY
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, LIVE EVERY WORD YOU SAY.
THIS IS MY PRIDE, MY GREATEST JOY, TO FULFILL MY MISSION EVERY DAY
THE WHOLE WORLD IS MY STAGE, A YOUTHFUL GOLDEN AGE
WITH A ROAR, I MARCH AHEAD, TO A LIFE OF TRIUMPH AND GLORY
SO SENSEI, REST ASSURED, OF MY ETERNAL VICTORY.
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, SHINE BRIGHT LIKE YOU, AND SHOW THE WAY
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, LIVE EVERY WORD YOU SAY.
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, SHINE BRIGHT LIKE YOU, AND SHOW THE WAY
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, LIVE EVERY WORD YOU SAY.
THE CLOUDS ARE DARK, THERES LASHING RAIN, BUT IT'S THE SUN BEHIND THAT I WILL CLAIM
THE ROAD IS LONG, THE CLIMB IS STEEP, BUT THERE'S A PROMISE I MUST KEEP.
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, SHINE BRIGHT LIKE YOU, AND SHOW THE WAY
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, LIVE EVERY WORD YOU SAY.
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, SHINE BRIGHT LIKE YOU, AND SHOW THE WAY
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, LIVE EVERY WORD YOU SAY.
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, SHINE BRIGHT LIKE YOU, AND SHOW THE WAY
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, LIVE EVERY WORD YOU SAY.
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, SHINE BRIGHT LIKE YOU, AND SHOW THE WAY
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, LIVE EVERY WORD YOU SAY.
THIS IS MY PRIDE, MY GREATEST JOY, TO FULFILL MY MISSION EVERY DAY
THE WHOLE WORLD IS MY STAGE, A YOUTHFUL GOLDEN AGE
WITH A ROAR, I MARCH AHEAD, TO A LIFE OF TRIUMPH AND GLORY
SO SENSEI, REST ASSURED, OF MY ETERNAL VICTORY.
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, SHINE BRIGHT LIKE YOU, AND SHOW THE WAY
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, LIVE EVERY WORD YOU SAY.
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, SHINE BRIGHT LIKE YOU, AND SHOW THE WAY
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, LIVE EVERY WORD YOU SAY.
THE CLOUDS ARE DARK, THERES LASHING RAIN, BUT IT'S THE SUN BEHIND THAT I WILL CLAIM
THE ROAD IS LONG, THE CLIMB IS STEEP, BUT THERE'S A PROMISE I MUST KEEP.
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, SHINE BRIGHT LIKE YOU, AND SHOW THE WAY
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, LIVE EVERY WORD YOU SAY.
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, SHINE BRIGHT LIKE YOU, AND SHOW THE WAY
I WILL SENSEI, WITH MY HEART I PRAY, LIVE EVERY WORD YOU SAY.
https://youtu.be/f4Mc-NYPHaQ
Deprogramming is akin to defying gravity--
~Katie
Recently studying the Gosho "The Blessings of the Lotus Sutra" a particular passage struck me in avery different way than previous readings of this Gosho.
Nichiren states :" In the same way, one who chants the daimoku as the Lotus Sutra teaches will never have a twisted mind. for one should know that, unless the mind of the Buddha enters into our bodies, we cannot chant the daimoku."
Pondering this again-- I reflect on a major difference between those who chant "Namu" as Nichiren wrote and those who argue the point and cling to "Nam"-- an easier recitation for them. The difference I refer to is the perception of Shakyamuni as "The Buddha"--Those who chant "Namu" seem to have unwavering resolve regarding the True Buddha. Could it be that IF one is not clear on the treasure of the Buddha," the mind of the Buddha will NOT enter one's body"--- and therefore one cannot chant correct *daimoku*??
I just wanted to share an observation-- because I have found the barrier to propagate correct daimoku amongst SGI members is the same as convincing them that Shakyamuni is the True Buddha-- not Nichiren as they were taught by Nichiren Shoshu.
Very interesting you mention *renge* in this context--. For SGI, the cause is discarding the True Buddha, Shakyamuni-- and the effect is not being able to hear, recite or benefit form the wonderful Law, Myo-ho-renge-kyo.
Who would have thought that something so simple could be so badly distorted??-- and that the correction of such an obvious distortion is one of the *nine difficult acts*??
~Katie
Nichiren states :" In the same way, one who chants the daimoku as the Lotus Sutra teaches will never have a twisted mind. for one should know that, unless the mind of the Buddha enters into our bodies, we cannot chant the daimoku." - the mind of the buddha is the lotus sutra(myoho renge kyo). the eternal buddha also teaches that wherever this sutra is believed in and upheld, he would appear before that person. this means according to the teachings that the buddhas ancient reality will appear in our minds(life) and this happens through the vehicle of faith.
nichiren teaches that although one may chant the daimoku, if they do not have the heart to accept and believe.... it is not the daimoku of the lotus sutra nor the daimoku that nichiren propagates. and, both nichiren and ten tai concur that(paraphrased) although one may chant the daimoku if one discards what is good and correct and instead embrace's something inferior , instead of leading to enlightenment and buddhahood, it will only lead to a deeper delusion and ultimately, the unremitting hell.
according to nichiren.....ultimately, buddhism exists in the heart. or, it is the heart that really matters. when we speak of being poisoned, we could say that the heart has been poisoned.
years ago i chanted nam....... and truthfully i received some astounding effects. i am sure there are many others. i think the reason this is so was because 1. i didn't know any better and 2. i tried to take the teachings to heart. i bet you could say the same thing. this is also true for shinkei and mark. but yes, namu is correct and should be followed. 99% of the people who cling to nam also turn their back on the real teaching and on what is right!
the sgi/nst practice and cling to the expedients. they do this for selfish ego and gain. the lotus sutra censors all this and therefore they cannot have their eyes opened.
the shu , although they chant namu, they mix the expedients and preparatory teachings with the lotus sutra which the buddha forbade.
ultimately, it is all slander and since renge is the law.....not good.
for your consideration and i am so glad you are doing well katie. cheers!
Who would have thought that something so simple could be so badly distorted??-- and that the correction of such an obvious distortion is one of the *nine difficult acts*??
yes ! as we know.....there is no way one can study what nichiren taught and come to the conclusion that the teachings of the nst and sgi are correct. in fact, it is laughable. nst preverts and uses the eternal buddha verses the historical buddha, or the shomon verses the honmon to claim that the eternal buddha is really nichiren. this we know, through nichirens own words, is not correct. it is suspected that the reason they promote this theory is because the japanese(shoshu) needed to have a japanese buddha in order to grow their own religion. arrogance.
the shu don't claim nichiren as the true buddha, but they confuse the shomon with the honmom and call it all the same. according to nichiren, this is not true. rather than take faith, they choose to bring the teachings down to a lower level(preparatory). everybody, jews, christians, buddhists want to feel warm and fuzzy. it seems no sects can uphold what nichiren really taught. too bad, too sad.
"because, to a man, people turn their backs on what is right, the spirits run rampant! - nichiren. buddhism is a mess.
..
.. "it seems no sects can uphold what nichiren really taught. too bad, too sad."
I have to wonder about the very interesting disparity in the way Nichiren established very strict standards for accepting *followers* and was very circumspect in dealing with those who committed errors or were weak in resolve -- contrasted with the SGI/NST, who accept just about anyone and are quick to punish or oust those who do not follow *their* *preachings*--
Nichiren expresses both the ultimate respect one should have for the Law and total respect for the individuals who sought his teachings. SGI/NST express a casual attitude toward the Law and show disdain for those who do not follow their *codes of behavior*.
Actually-- when I think of how strict Nichiren was-- and I still do think of his strictness every time I read the Gosho, it is no wonder that priests seeking a following large enough to keep them in the style to which they felt they deserved, would naturally NOT imitate Nichiren's practice.
We are fortunate that there were always a few who aroused joy from the Law -- especially those who protected Nichiren's own writings and Gohonzons , and those who are dedicated to preserving the purity of his teachings. I finally get the four debts of gratitude, and the special function of priests, though I know of only one who can rightfully claim to be a disciple of Nichiren.
I am still waiting for Shinkei to post the translation of the passage he shared on ARBN-- especially what is contained 15 sentences after--
I don't mind waiting :-)
Cheers!
~Katie
nichiren was strict because the law of renge is strict. the thing that amazes me the most , is that the ANSWER to the problems that modern man/womankind is facing lies within the buddhas highest teaching, the lotus sutra. yet people like chas and richard etc, etc, etc, arrogantly kling to what , in truth, we already have, and in truth, is exactly why mankind has the problems it does. in other words they kling to the poison and reject the medicine. deluded? i think so. although sometimes frustrating, the causes we make by trying to share a correct faith in the L S must be great....we are the dirt under the fingernail and as a rule our behavior is in line with the buddhas will. if things were any different, the buddha would be a liar.
shinkei overcame a brain tumor(he has his problems) that by rights should have killed him. he has lived in japan and he studies japanese so he can check certain translations. the japanese language is quite complex. he is american. he is a little rough around the edges but he takes is vows to protect the teachings seriously.
when i read something in the teachings i don't understand, rather than reject it, i think i'l just sit on it and eventually my faith will deepen and i will understand it. i wish the foolish in the sgi/nst would do the same.
i hope your husband is doing well..............cheers!
My husband Kevin's awakening is perhaps the most compelling actual proof I have for the *good medicine* here on Eagle Peak. I'm getting slammed over on arbn for using the google acct. Kevin set up on our shared server-- BUT, the irony is, it is because I took this easier route to participating here immediately when I found Eagle Peak, that Kevin was aware of this site. and them arbn as well. We are husband and wife -- despite how SGI Boston tried to divide us, we somehow emerged with a stronger bond and deeper commitment to correct faith that transcended SGI Boston's nefarious activities.
Kevin witnessed my overcoming a near fatal health crisis-- with faith and determination NOT to recant my faith no matter what. Such experiences appear here-- and actually are not to be found in SGI Boston these days-- AGAIN, a huge benefit to encounter Eagle Peak and genuine practitioners of Nichiren's Buddhism.
"nichiren was strict because the law of renge is strict. the thing that amazes me the most , is that the ANSWER to the problems that modern man/womankind is facing lies within the buddhas highest teaching, the lotus sutra. yet people like chas and richard etc, etc, etc, arrogantly kling to what , in truth, we already have, and in truth, is exactly why mankind has the problems it does. in other words they kling to the poison and reject the medicine. deluded? i think so. although sometimes frustrating, the causes we make by trying to share a correct faith in the L S must be great....we are the dirt under the fingernail and as a rule our behavior is in line with the buddhas will. if things were any different, the buddha would be a liar."
Well said, Greg-- I find that there is a difference in what people are seeking and how they regard *The Buddha* is a stunning reflection of how they approach this practice. How strange that so many abandon the Buddha and then say they are practicing Buddhism ! This was noted by my husband early on-- He actually gave me my small statue of Shakyamuni as a gift. Kevin opened his eyes when I disengaged with him and participated vigorously here--
I am following the same course with so many former *friends* still prcticing with SGI-- those who circle back to find out how I am faring :-) I refer them here-- and simply say, "don't take my word"- and of course, the dramatic turn around in my marriage speaks volumes to those who believed I was holding Kevin prisoner!! LOL!
Cheers!
~Katie
my opinion matters not, but i can assure you that the true teachings have penetrated deeply. i have more than a few experiences i would love to share but find it difficult to explain , especially in writing. it seems that those that struggle to a correct faith and practice are confronted by the devil of illness. sounds like you have won your battle and all in all i have won mine. the difficulty for me is that a few experiences are on the mystical side and sound somewhat like a dream. however, they were real and aided my recovery when very sick. sometimes when nichiren seems to use metaphor, actually he is just referring to a different reality. this is what i have learned, and yes, the gakkai members no longer seem to receive protection at crucial times.
short story - about ten years ago, shortly after i met mark via the internet, i had a woman friend who i also introduced to mark. she and i started a district in the valley of los angeles. at one point we had about 20 people gathering for meetings where we would study the lotus sutra and nichirens writings and chant namu myoho renge kyo. we bestowed more than a few nichiren gohonzon and for awhile all seemed to be going ok. most of these people were disgruntled sgi members who were upset about something they had experienced within the gak. we received a lot of interference from the sgi. one by one the people began to disappear . rose(my friend) moved with her husband to hawaii and backslid due to the constant neg.
regarding rose, i reported to mark that her non buddhist husband drowned in hawaii recently. i had not spoken to her for about 3 pr 4 years. she called and i knew something unusual must have happened. while we were talking she said to me that even thought she does not like to argue, she realizes that mark and i act as a parent to the sgi etc and that she respects what we do. i thought this was a step forward for her. cheers to you and your most excellent husband. my x has been lying and slandering me for 20 years. although, she wanted me back as her husband......how crazy is that? no thanks!
the point of this is not to be negative but to show that the sgi/nst members are what they are because of THEIR karma and it is very difficult for them to break free, and that one should not become discouraged by their neg behavior. even our presidential race is a reflection of the american people.
this got a little long, sorry. .......cheers all!
regarding my exp with the group we formed what i left out was.....what seemed to be rather strange was that although these people were unhappy with the sgi, they seemed to want to create their own sgi. sorta like, you can take one out of the gakkai, but ya can't take the gakkai/nst out of the person. this was my bottom line exp.
your experience is encouraging! wonderful.
one day about a month after surgery....my sister shared this with me. it encouraged me to hear this.
when she told me the above story, i replied "shakyamuni took my place". sorry i left that out.
great news about your land(i have seen pics) and your new kidney. what a great cause. i am sure you will outlast me and possibly the priest. good to hear about clown hidden and its nice that you hold no grudge. yeeeehaaww!
Another difficult to articulate experience is the *protection* of the bodhisattvas who made vows at the ceremony in the air-- ALL showing gratitude for being able to attain that which had been previously prohibited for them, namely, Buddhahood--ALL vowing to protect votaries of the Lotus Sutra in the Latter Day--
Those protective forces-- show up as circumstantial miracles--but I have to say that *life threatening* illness seems to be the common experience of those who have openly, publicly rebuked the slander of SGI/NST with the *teachings* and not from personal grudges-- Makes what Nichiren said about attaining Buddhahood being a matter of laying down one's life for the Law All the more relevant-- in a day and age when some of us are fortunate not to be subjected to public execution for our religious beliefs.
Mark, you remind me of the self-proclaimed *country* doctor I worked for in the early seventies, who has always been my *gold standard" for practicing medicine. His name was richard Dobson- of Brandywine Maryland, who made a fortune selling and buying Real Estate-- charged $%. for office visits and had the most amazing barter system --We had patients who cut acres of grass around Dr. Dobson's clinic and other's who painted walls, performed repairs-- etc. Dr. Dobson lived at his clinic-- for the most part -- . I learned more about medicine, human nature and true compassion at Dr. Dobson's Brandywine-Waldorf Clinic than anywhere else I have ever studied :-)
I am finding all of this NEWS to be a great comfort at the end of my 62nd year-- as I turn 63 on January 1st, I can say for the first time in over a decade that I am finally hopeful about the future-
Namu-myoho-renge-kyo --
~Katie