The Gohonzon – a Practitioner’S Guide

Book excerpt: In this book, readers can find answers to their priceless possessiontheir own Gohonzon. If we undertake the task of kosen-rufu (spreading this Buddhism far and wide) in order to achieve world peace, then an understanding of our Gohonzon tends to firm up our faith and stand us in good stead. This book aims to illustrate comprehensively what exactly is written on our Gohonzon and what they mean. It is divided in chapters with special critical consideration boxes put in places to elicit discussions and/or reflections at various opportune points. It is a text book of the utmost interactive style. It covers the following: All inscriptions by the high priest Nichikan All the personages inscribed on it representing the ten worlds All statements inscribed on the Gohonzon Practical notes on the care and maintenance of the Gohonzon Some crucially relevant Buddhist principles and tenets In-depth exposition about the object of worship for observing the mind aided by citation of various goshos Spiritual independence (a fetterless way to practice Buddhism in real life) Some variant forms of Gohonzon for the curious ones It is an informative and useful resource for those beginning their SGI form of Nichiren Buddhist practice. It is also an important aid and memoir for more experienced practitioners.