Tuesday, July 28, 2020
Monday, July 27, 2020
Response to Hugh Moon's thesis, Prisms in the Lotus: A Schema of Nichiren's Three Interpenetrating Truths (santai)
I disagree with some of your conclusions in your essay on the Three Interpenetrating Truths, particularly those regarding ego. My arguments transcend even the internal inconsistencies found in Nichiren's A, B, and C works*.
"A" works are those in Nichiren's hand or known to have been in Nichiren's hand. "B" works are those works not in Nichiren's hand and never known to be in Nichiren's hand but for the most part, agree with those works in Nichiren's hand. "C" works are those works not in Nichiren's hand and are for various reasons known to be forged or apocryphal writings.
We can come to understand, not only what Nichiren taught and believed regarding Medieval Tendai Original Enlightenment (immediate enlightenment) but his teachings on acquired Enlightenment (receiving and keeping).
If we look to the Five Major Writings and the entire authenticated canon of Nichiren we can correctly come to understand Nichiren's works with the caveat that Nichiren's thought evolved over time. Certainly, Medieval Tendai Original Enlightenment was believed and taught by Nichiren's in his earlier works, those before ~1261/1262. After, Nichiren more forcefully taught the concept of receiving the seeds of Enlightenment from the Original Buddha and watering the seeds through the chanting of Namu myoho renge kyo.
The evolution of Nichiren's thought culminates specifically with Shakyamuni of the Juryo Chapter of the Lotus Sutra (Gohonzon) as Original Eternal Buddha and generally, we are original (or ancient) Three Bodied Tathagatas in our own right. Nichiren teaches however, "if you confuse the general with the specific, even in the slightest, you will fail to attain Buddhahood." An understanding of these concepts can be gained through the paradox of "one but not one and two but not two."
Some, particularly the Soka Gakkai, mis-teach the principle of the equality of the Buddha and the common mortal because they misunderstand the principle of the general and the specific. They sometimes teach that the common mortal is equal to the Buddha and sometimes that the common mortal is superior to the Buddha (that we are the original teachers of Shakyamuni Buddha). It is different when the Buddha proclaims that the common mortal is equal to the Buddha because herein lies a Buddhist paradox. Understanding [living] the paradox with gratitude for Shakyamuni Buddha is a necessary part of the subjugation of ego vital for awakening. Nichiren scolded the Zenmen for the same transgressions exhibited by some Nichiren sects who teach that the common mortal is the original Buddha and teacher of Shakyamuni Buddha. I can support my view with the authenticated writings of Nichiren, the Lotus Sutra, and even the questionable writings, utilizing the Buddhist paradox of "one but not one and two but not two" and the principle of the general and the specific. They who mis-teach the equality of the Buddha and the common mortal or the superiority of the common mortal to the Buddha can not support their arguments utilizing the principle of the general and the specific. In fact, without gratitude for Shakyamuni Buddha of the Juryo Chapter specifically and people generally, there is no Buddhahood.
Regarding Hugh Moon's Clear Mirror "Phenomenology" and the Primal Instant Thesis on Academia.Edu
https://www.academia.edu/35946995/Nichirens_Clear_Mirror_Phenomenology_in_the_Primal_Instant
Nichiren stated:
http://markrogow.blogspot.com/2019/08/how-to-chant-according-to-nichiren-and.html
Nichiren stated:
"This is because there are two kinds of countries, the country that is passively evil, and the kind that actively seeks to destroy the Law. We must consider carefully to which category Japan at the present time belongs."
"'...The country of Japan is also like this in which every single human being must be subjected to their offenses against Buddhism.
America is country which is passively evil, Japan a country which is actively evil...." It therefore appears that more people have fallen into the evil paths because of errors with respect to Buddhism than because of secular misdeeds."
The priests of this country have all become possessed by the spirits of Devadatta and Kokālika; the ruler of the nation has become a reincarnation of King Ajātashatru or King Virūdhaka. And in the case of the ministers and the common people, it is as though someone gathered together evil people like the ministers Varshakāra and Chandrakīrti, or like Sunakshatra and Girika, and had them constitute the people of Japan.
"...the people of this country are guilty of so many offenses that their evil karma has destined them unfailingly to be attacked by a foreign country in this lifetime and to fall into the hell of incessant suffering in the next."
"Furthermore, Japan is an unusual country, a country that respects the gods and honors the Buddhas. Nevertheless, because everyone from the sovereign on down to the common people hates Nichiren for propagating the Lotus Sutra, though they may revere all the gods and make offerings to all the Buddhas, these meritorious acts only turn into great evil..."
Those who fall into the evil paths because of their mistaken practice of Buddhism outnumber the dust particles of the land, while those who attain the Buddha way by practicing the correct teaching are fewer than the specks of dirt that can be placed on a fingernail. At such a time, the heavenly gods and benevolent deities abandon the country, and only perverse heavenly beings and perverse demons remain, possessing the minds and bodies of the ruler, his subjects, and monks and nuns, and causing them to curse, revile, and heap shame on the votary of the Lotus Sutra.
"....How sad I feel that all the people of this country will fall into the Avīchi hell! I will not go into detail here, or this letter will become too involved. You should seriously ponder this."
"...Contrary to popular belief, this country has become inhabited by evil demons. How pitiful!
"...But now you, born a woman in the evil world of the latter age, while being reviled, struck, and persecuted by the barbaric inhabitants of this island country who are unaware of these things, have endured and are propagating the Lotus Sutra..."
"The Decline of the Law Sutra says that there will be only one or two good persons, and the Nirvana Sutra says that the believers can fit into the space of a fingernail. If we accept what the sutras say, then in Japan Nichiren is the only good person, the one who fits into the space of a fingernail. Therefore, I hope that people who are seriously concerned about the matter will consider carefully whether they want to accept what the sutras say, or what the world says."
There are several more similar passages that the most eveil people in Jambudvipa are the Japanese people.
Next, I would like to discuss Alaya consciousness versus Amala consciousness (Namu Myoho renge kyo)'
The Alaya consciousness still retains the impurities of karma. The Amala consciousness is free of all impurities. Nichiren says that we should base ourselves on the ninth consciousness: "...The words of a wise man of old also teach that “you should base your mind on the ninth consciousness, and carry out your practice in the six consciousnesses.” How reasonable it is too! In this letter I have written my long-cherished teachings. Keep them deep within your heart" and ."The body is the palace of the ninth consciousness,8 the unchanging reality that reigns over all of life’s functions.... (8 the fundamental purifying force, that is free from all karmic impediments.). It is Namu Myoho renge kyo consciousness.
Nichiren further teaches:
“Answer: The school has already postulated the nine kinds of consciousness, and therefore it propounds the five types of wisdom. Among the nine consciousnesses, the first five correspond to the wisdom of perfect practice. The sixth consciousness corresponds to the wisdom of insight into the particular, the seventh to the non-discriminating wisdom, the eighth to the great round mirror wisdom, and the ninth to the wisdom of the essence of the phenomenal world.
“Next, regarding the five major principles as they pertain to the capacity and feelings of the individual believer, Myoho-renge-kyo as it is expounded for the sake of the capacities of all persons is what is meant by the five major principles of the capacity and feelings. Since there are five characters in the title Myoho-renge-kyo, there are accordingly five types of threefold contemplation in a single mind. They are explained as follows in the transmitted teachings:
“Myō The threefold contemplation in a single mind that is inconceivable. Because it is natural enlightenment that is bright in and of itself, it is inconceivable.
“Hō The threefold contemplation in a single mind that is unification [of the three truths]. The universal truth [in which the three truths are] unified includes within it all the nine subdivisions.22
“Ren The threefold contemplation in a single mind that is comprehension [of the unification of the three truths]. The effect of Buddhahood.
“Ge The threefold contemplation in a single mind that is once more broken down into categories.23 The practice in the state of original enlightenment.
“Kyō The threefold contemplation in a single mind that is easily understood.24 Discussion of the teachings.
“The second volume of The Profound Meaning of the Lotus Sutra discusses these five types of threefold contemplation in a single mind. Let us explain them in the light of that passage.
“The threefold contemplation in a single mind that is inconceivable is the embodiment of the enlightenment gained by the Great Teacher T’ien-t’ai Chih-che, the eternal truth that is truth uncreated. This cannot be expressed by the names or characteristics p.906of the three truths; the only name or characteristic that could express it at all would be ‘inconceivable.’
“The threefold contemplation in a single mind that is unification [of the three truths] is the principle of the three truths, which from the beginning has existed in the phenomenal world [as a manifestation] of the universal truth. So the three truths achieve unification with one another and include the nine subdivisions.
“As to the threefold contemplation in a single mind that is comprehension: the threefold contemplation in a single mind that is inconceivable and the threefold contemplation in a single mind that is unification [of the three truths] are not something that can be grasped by the mind of an ordinary person, but can only be comprehended through the wisdom the sages freely receive and use. Therefore it is called comprehension.
“As to the threefold contemplation in a single mind that is once more broken down into categories, the three truths that are uncreated apply to all phenomena and represent the basic nature that is constantly abiding. They are not the same as the universal truth [in which the three truths are] unified, and therefore they are spoken of as being once more broken down into categories.
“As to the threefold contemplation in a single mind that is easily understood, one finds it difficult to understand the doctrine of the unification of the three truths and similar doctrines. Therefore one approaches them through the three successive views represented by the three truths and analyzes the doctrines in this way. Hence it is spoken of as being easily understood. These are the five types of threefold contemplation in a single mind as they are described in the text.
“Next, in the threefold contemplation in a single mind as it applies to the Buddha’s intention, there are also five types of threefold contemplation in a single mind.
“First, there is the threefold contemplation in a single mind (which applies to the capacity to enter the gate of tranquillity).25
“Second, there is the threefold contemplation in a single mind (which applies to the capacity to enter the gate of brightness or understanding).26
“Third, there is the threefold contemplation in a single mind that abides in the effect of the achievement of Buddhahood but returns [to the practice of threefold contemplation in a single mind]. When one has superior capacities and hears a good friend expounding the doctrine that all phenomena are manifestations of the Buddhist Law, one then becomes aware of the truth. After one has once entered into the truth, one then practices the threefold contemplation in a single mind, enjoying its blessing to the fullest.27
“Fourth, there is the threefold contemplation in a single mind that serves as the cause for the achievement of the effect. One hears about the wonderful effect of the achievement of Buddhahood, and in order to achieve this effect, one practices the various views associated with the three truths.28
“Fifth, there is the threefold contemplation in a single mind that concerns doctrines. One hears the various doctrines such as those pertaining to the five periods and the eight teachings, and after storing these doctrines in the mind, one carries out meditative practice. Therefore it is called the threefold contemplation ‘that concerns doctrines.’
Now I would like to touch on Ted morino versus Nichiren on how to chant:
http://markrogow.blogspot.com/2019/08/how-to-chant-according-to-nichiren-and.html
Namu Myoho renge kyo is so powerful, that even with distracted mind, one can not fail to attain Buddhahood.
Kuon Jitsujo is found in the 16th Chapter of the Lotus Sutra Tientai's teachings, and the Kaimoku sho.. There is no term for Kuon Ganjo in the Lotus Sutra, Gosho, or writings of Tientai, only in the Teachings of the Nichiren Shoshu. Kuon Jitsujo means the Eternal Lifespan of Shakyamuni Buddha of the Juryo Chapter of the Lotus Sutra.
Lastly, I would like to explain to you the meaning of the line you quoted from the Opening of the Eyes: "From both the relative and absolute viewpoints, we should abandon all that is bad. To be attached to the perfect teaching is bad, and to be attached to the other [three] teachings is of course even worse.”
The meaning of this is that, throughout the eternity of the Buddha's (and our) preaching life, sometimes we use the Eight Teachings in order to awaken the masses of beings and even in this lifetime, we may rarely use various provisional teachings in order to convert an individual of great capacity. Similarly, when explaining the "absolute myo", Nichiren sometimes adopted the provisional teachings in order to explain certain principles of the Lotus Sutra., For example, in his major works he adopted various teachings that resembled the Lotus Sutra. However, in this Latter Age, we predominantly teach Namu Myoho renge kyo regardless of the capacity of the individual.
"Foundation" according to the Soka Gakkai and according to Nichiren
"Fundamental to achieving genuine advancement and victory, is the spirit of oneness of mentor and disciple, which is also the most important foundation of Buddhist practice..." -- top SGI leader
"Namu-myoho-renge-kyo, should be their foundation." -- Nichiren
"Faith in the Lotus Sutra is the foundation." -- Nichiren
"The Lotus Sutra is the heart and core of the sacred teachings expounded by Shakyamuni Buddha during the course of his lifetime, the foundation of all the eighty thousand doctrines of Buddhism." -- Nichiren
Why respond to SGI slander and slanderers
We teach the truth of Nichiren Lotus Sutra Buddhism while SGI distorts the teachings with lies. Perhaps they are not even worthy of a response. Yet, if we don't respond to them, they might form the idea that they are correct and they will sink ever deeper into slander.
The noble character and wisdom of a very top Ikeda sect leader
Former TEPCO president Tsunehisa Katsumata is an SGI leader. Besides presiding over the Fukushima disaster, Katsumata was tied to the murder of his mistress Yasuko Watanabe. Of course, as a member of SGI inner circle, he was never prosecuted.
Kindhearted Soka buddy
"I'll go to google search engine and bring up all of the skeletons of all the Mark Rogows in all the major world systems, you schmuck. You are a fool to believe this, sonny. Get a fucking grip you snot nosed little brat. Your knowledge of Buddhism is worthless, shit head."
Soka Gakkai members are patrons of Devedatta
"All these teachers and their supporters who forget Shakyamuni [of the “Life Span” chapter] and choose some other Buddha instead are like Prince Ajātashatru, who killed his father, King Bimbisāra, and, turning against Shakyamuni became a patron of Devadatta." -- Nichiren
Nichiren Gohonzons and Nichiren sects
https://nichirenmandala.weebly.com/uploads/4/4/4/0/44406171/jnbs_xii2017.pdf
https://nichirenmandala.weebly.com/uploads/4/4/4/0/44406171/journal_xi2017c.pdf
https://nichirenmandala.weebly.com/uploads/4/4/4/0/44406171/journal_x2017_final.pdf
https://nichirenmandala.weebly.com/uploads/4/4/4/0/44406171/jnbs_issue_ix-17.pdf
https://nichirenmandala.weebly.com/uploads/4/4/4/0/44406171/specialissue_plankmandala.pdf
https://nichirenmandala.weebly.com/uploads/4/4/4/0/44406171/journal_xi2017c.pdf
https://nichirenmandala.weebly.com/uploads/4/4/4/0/44406171/journal_x2017_final.pdf
https://nichirenmandala.weebly.com/uploads/4/4/4/0/44406171/jnbs_issue_ix-17.pdf
https://nichirenmandala.weebly.com/uploads/4/4/4/0/44406171/specialissue_plankmandala.pdf
The blessings of upholding the Four Line Verse, Namu Myoho renge kyo
"The seventh volume of the Lotus Sutra states: 'Even if a person were to fill the whole major world system with the seven treasures as an offering to the Buddha and the great bodhisattvas, pratyekabuddhas and arhats, the benefits gained by such a person cannot match those gained by accepting and upholding this Lotus Sutra, even just one four-line verse of it! The latter brings the most numerous blessings of all.'” -- Nichiren
Friday, July 24, 2020
Bodhisattvas emerging from the earth
Here and there and everywhere. Newbies and old souls. Realization of the truth and filled with joy. Gohonzon is great. The Lotus Sutra and Nichiren are correct.
Soka Gakkai's actual proof or lack thereof
Nichiren tied an oath to the statue of Shakyamuni Buddha and saved his temple from falling into the hands of Tojo Kakenobu and the Amidists:
"...The villainous Tojo Saemon Kagenobu once hunted the deer and other animals kept by Seicho-ji, and tried to force the priests in the various lodging temples to become Nembutsu believers. At that time I pitted myself against Tojo and supported the lord of the manor. I composed a fervent oath that read, “If the two temples Kiyosumi and Futama should come into Tojo’s possession, I will discard the Lotus Sutra!” Then I tied it to the hand of the object of devotion, to which I prayed continuously. Within a year, both temples had been freed from Tojo’s grasp. Certainly Bodhisattva Space Treasury will never forget this, so how can those priests who make light of me avoid being forsaken by the heavenly gods? Hearing me say this, the more foolish of you may think that I am invoking a curse upon you. But that is not so. I am warning you simply because it would be a pity if you should fall into the hell of incessant suffering after your death."
SGI members couldn't even save "The High Sanctuary of the Ten Thousand Years and More of the Latter Age" from the clutches of "the evil Nikken sect" with trillions of Daimoku and oaths on every SGI altar.
Where's the beef?
Quotes from the Writings of Nichiren
~ 25 quotes from the writings of Nichiren Daishonin and > 250 quotes from the writings of Daisaku Ikeda.
~ 25 quotes from the writings of Nichiren Daishonin and > 250 quotes from the writings of Daisaku Ikeda.
The difference is night and day!
SGI member: "I'm a Buddha"
Never Despise Bodhisattva: "You are a Buddha"
Japanese top senior leaders are as reliable as these diplomats
Just prior to Pearl Harbor Japanese envoys meeting with Franklin Roosevelt in November 1941.
"There's been a sharp spike in radiation levels measured in the pipes and containers holding water at the crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant in Japan.
But the company in charge of cleaning it up says that only a single drop of the highly contaminated water escaped the holding tanks." --CNN
The Soka Gakkai and Nichiren Shoshu leaders and priests say that Nichiren is the Original Eternal Buddha. But Nichiren says that Shakyamuni is the Original Eternal Buddha.
Nichiren Prophet of Sincerity
http://manlyhall.org/prs-journal/prsj-3302-fall-1973.pdf
Also, please search out Manly Hall's Lotus Sutra and its Mandala from 1928
Also, please search out Manly Hall's Lotus Sutra and its Mandala from 1928
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