About
What is Nichiren Buddhism?
A Mahayana Buddhist tradition based on the Lotus Sutra, taught by Nichiren in 13th-century Japan. Its central idea is that every person, without exception, can attain Buddhahood in this lifetime.
Nichiren and the Lotus Sutra
Nichiren (1222–1282) was a Japanese Buddhist reformer who concluded that the Lotus Sutra contains the essence of the Buddha’s teachings: that the Buddha nature exists in all people.
He established the practice of chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo so that anyone, regardless of education or social standing, could bring out that nature in daily life.
Key ideas
Buddha nature
Every life contains the qualities of a Buddha: wisdom, courage, compassion and a deep sense of purpose.
Human revolution
A fundamental change in one person’s inner life can lead to changes in family, community and society.
Changing poison into medicine
Any hardship can become a source of growth and a way to encourage others.
Oneness of self and environment
Our lives and our surroundings are inseparable; as we change inwardly, our environment responds.
The Soka Gakkai International
A lay Buddhist movement that links individual happiness with peace, culture and education. SGI-USA is its American organization.
1930
Educators Tsunesaburo Makiguchi and Josei Toda found the Soka Gakkai in Japan.
1960
Daisaku Ikeda becomes third president and visits the U.S.; the first American chapter forms.
1975
The Soka Gakkai International is established as a worldwide network.
Today
Members in 192 countries and territories, including communities across North Texas.