Lotus Sutra
The invocation of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo was established by Nichiren on April 28, 1253. Having studied widely among all the Buddhist sutras, he had concluded that the Lotus Sutra contains the ultimate truth of Buddhism: that everyone without exception has the potential to attain Buddhahood. The title of the Lotus Sutra in its Japanese translation is Myoho-renge-kyo. But to Nichiren, Myoho-renge-kyo was far more than the title of a Buddhist text, it was the expression, in words, of the Law of life which all Buddhist teachings in one way or another seek to clarify. What follows is a brief and unavoidably limited explanation of some of the key concepts expressed by this phrase.SGI members chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo to a Gohonzon enshrined in their own homes. The Gohonzon, together with a practitioner’s faith and chanting of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, acts as a stimulus to activate the life-condition of Buddhahood innate in one’s life.
Nichiren
SGI members follow the teachings of Nichiren, a Buddhist monk who lived in thirteenth-century Japan. Nichiren’s teachings provide a way for anybody to readily draw out the enlightened wisdom and energy of Buddhahood from within their lives, regardless of their individual circumstances. Each person has the power to overcome all of life’s challenges, to live a life of value and become a positive influence in their community, society and the world.
Shoulder to shoulder, marching along Holding the banner high, With faith in our hearts and joy in our song, Peace is the battle cry.
We’re building a highway of peace, Where every one can be free.
We will fight -for the right- Of every one to be free.
Marching forward to victory In the 21st century.
We’re marching forward to victory In the 21st century.
Arm linked in arm, together we go, Walking the great middle way,
Fighting the poisons of fear, greed and hate, Winning the fight each day.
A treasure that’s too close to see, Freedom for you and for me.
We will fight -for the right- Of every one to be free.
Marching forward to victory In the 21st century.
We’re marching forward to victory In the 21st century.
La la la la-la la la la La la la la la la.
Heart close to heart, United and free, Facing our destiny.
The road that we travel is long, But with hope in our hearts
we’ll go on.
Marching forward to victory In the 21st century.
Marching forward to victory In the 21st century.
We’re marching on to change history In the 21st century.