every Wednesday evening, SGI Toronto holds structured lessons on the Basics of Nichiren Buddhism
I have the great fortune to be able to attend a no. of lessons while I am here in toronto. I was very impressed with the topics covered, the knowledge of lecturers and the handouts given. am sharing with you the first lesson on the History and background of our practice.
They used FIVE words:
WHAT: What is the practice of Nichiren Buddhism
- The practice is based on Nichiren's teaching : to chant the title of the Lotus Sutra - nam myo ho renge kyo to attain Buddhahood.
WHY: (Why do we practice?):
- To attain absolute happiness
- To transform suffering
- To raise life condition
- To change karma
- For lasting peace
- For enlightenment.
HOW: (How do we practice?)
- Correct way of practice is with Faith, Practice and Study
- by Chanting nam myo ho renge kyo
- by doing gongyo
- by practicing for self and others
- by study to understand and deepen our faith
WHEN: When do we practice??
- everyday
Where: (where do we practice?)
- at home
- at SGI district meetings
- at group meetings in members homes
- local SGI centres
- everywhere you go
I particularly like that last sentence: ie we can practice everywhere we go! yes, Buddhism is in daily life, and we should be able to practice or chant (sometimes at heart) any time, any where we go.
I know quite a few people who have been chanting for a no. of years but still do not know or have forgotten the basic concepts and philosophy. lessons like these could be soooo helpful. I wish we could have structured lessons like these in other countries as well.
cheers
Lydia
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