Welcome, and thank you for visiting! We are delighted to share the profound teachings and vibrant community of Nichiren Shu Buddhism with you. Whether you are new to Buddhism, exploring different spiritual paths, or a seasoned practitioner, we hope you find inspiration, guidance, and a sense of belonging here.
Who Was Nichiren Shonin?
Nichiren Shu is a school of Mahayana Buddhism founded in Japan in the 13th century by Nichiren Shonin (1222-1282). Born during a tumultuous period in Japanese history, Nichiren Shonin dedicated his life to understanding and propagating what he believed to be the ultimate truth taught by the Buddha Shakyamuni. After extensive study of all the Buddhist sutras, he concluded that the Lotus Sutra contained the complete and final teachings of the Buddha.
Nichiren Shonin taught that all people, regardless of their background or circumstances, possess an innate Buddha-nature and can achieve enlightenment in this lifetime by embracing the teachings of the Lotus Sutra. His compassionate yet firm resolve to guide people to this truth led him to face numerous persecutions, yet he remained steadfast in his mission.
The Heart of Our Teaching: The Lotus Sutra
At the core of Nichiren Shu is the profound reverence for the Lotus Sutra (Myōhō Renge Kyō). This magnificent scripture, universally recognized as one of the most influential Buddhist texts, reveals that the historical Shakyamuni Buddha was an earthly manifestation of the Eternal Buddha, who has been teaching since time immemorial. The Lotus Sutra emphasizes:
- Universal Enlightenment: All beings have the potential to become Buddhas.
- Oneness of Life: All phenomena are interconnected and expressions of the ultimate reality.
- Bodhisattva Practice: The importance of living a life of compassion and dedication to the welfare of others.
Nichiren Shonin taught that by embracing the Lotus Sutra, particularly through the practice of chanting its Sacred Title, we can directly connect with this universal truth and manifest our inherent wisdom and compassion.
Our Three Treasures: Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha
In Nichiren Shu, we uphold the traditional Buddhist concept of the Three Treasures, but with a specific focus that aligns with Nichiren Shonin’s teachings:
- Buddha: We revere the Eternal Shakyamuni Buddha as the ultimate enlightened one, revealed in the Lotus Sutra. He is the source of all truth and compassion.
- Dharma: Our Dharma is the Lotus Sutra, the highest teaching of the Buddha, which guides us to enlightenment. Nichiren Shonin articulated how to embody and practice this Dharma in our daily lives.
- Sangha: Our Sangha is the community of practitioners who follow Nichiren Shonin’s teachings, including the Nichiren Shu priests, temples, and lay followers worldwide. Together, we support each other on the path to Buddhahood.
What You Can Expect Here
This website is dedicated to serving as a resource and a welcoming gateway to Nichiren Shu. Here, you will find:
- Information about our services and events.
- Resources for understanding Nichiren Shu teachings and practices.
- Opportunities to connect with our community.
- Inspiring insights for your spiritual journey.
We invite you to explore, ask questions, and perhaps even join us for a service. May your visit bring you peace, understanding, and a deeper connection to the wonderful Dharma.
With Gassho (palms together in reverence),
The Community of Nichiren Shu Penang