When you learn Nichiren Buddhism, you’ll find the Gohonzon – an elegant paper scroll inscribed with Chinese and Sanskrit characters that’s seen as the key to unlocking your infinite potential. But it’s far more than just a beautiful work of art; it’s a map to enlightenment, a mirror reflecting your innermost reality, and a catalyst for personal transformation.
Nichiren Buddhists revere the Gohonzon as the embodiment of the Mystic Law – the ultimate truth of life and the universe. But don’t mistake it for an external deity or a magical charm; it’s a powerful tool that, when engaged with, helps you tap into your inherent Buddha nature – the enlightened wisdom and compassion that exist within us all.
What is the Gohonzon?
Literally translated as “object of fundamental respect,” the Gohonzon takes the form of a calligraphic scroll inscribed with Chinese and Sanskrit characters. It’s not just a piece of paper, but a vibrant representation of the profound teachings of the Lotus Sutra, the core text of Nichiren Buddhism.
Buddhist philosopher Daisaku Ikeda explains the Gohonzon:
A map is just paper. But if we trust in the map and use it, we will arrive at our intended destination. The Gohonzon is the object of devotion for bringing forth a great state of life so that we can become truly happy.
So what exactly is Gohonzon? LotusBuddhas will explain more in the next section.
More than just a scroll: For Nichiren Buddhists, the Gohonzon embodies the ultimate state of enlightenment, the potential for Buddhahood inherent within all beings. It’s a mirror reflecting our own Buddha nature, a constant reminder of the limitless possibilities that lie dormant within us.
A focus for devotion: Nichiren Buddhists chant the phrase Nam-myoho-renge-kyo (Devotion to the Lotus Sutra’s Wonderful Law) before the Gohonzon. This practice, called daimoku, helps practitioners connect with their Buddha nature and tap into the vast potential within.
Beyond words: The Gohonzon’s power transcends mere words. Its intricate symbols represent various aspects of Buddhist teachings, such as the ten worlds, the interconnectedness of all beings, and the ultimate state of enlightenment.
Universally accessible: Unlike other venerated objects in Buddhism, the Gohonzon is not limited to temples or specific individuals. Every Nichiren Buddhist can have their own Gohonzon, enshrined in a special altar within their homes. This allows for personal practice and connection with the teachings at any time.
A dynamic guide: The Gohonzon is not a static object. As practitioners chant and engage in their Buddhist practice, they enter into a dialogue with the Gohonzon, drawing forth its inherent wisdom and applying it to their daily lives.
A beacon of hope: In a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, the Gohonzon stands as a beacon of hope. It reminds us of our inherent potential for happiness and empowers us to overcome obstacles and fulfill our deepest aspirations.
The Gohonzon is more than just a symbol or object of worship. It’s a living testament to the transformative power of Nichiren Buddhism, a gateway to unlocking the boundless potential within each of us.
What are the symbols and inscriptions on the Gohonzon?
The Gohonzon in Nichiren Buddhism filled with an array of symbols, characters, and inscriptions that each carry significant meanings within the context of this tradition.
The primary inscription at the center of the Gohonzon is the title of the Lotus Sutra, written as “Nam-myoho-renge-kyo,” accompanied by the name of Nichiren. “Nam-myoho-renge-kyo” encapsulates the essence of the Lotus Sutra, representing the law of the universe and the potential for enlightenment inherent in all life. Nichiren’s name placed alongside this inscription signifies the oneness of the person (Nichiren) and the Law (Nam-myoho-renge-kyo), a fundamental principle in Nichiren Buddhism.
Surrounding this central inscription are the names of various figures, both historical and mythical. These figures are typically drawn from the Lotus Sutra and the wider Buddhist pantheon, each symbolizing different elements of Buddhist philosophy and cosmology. The placement of these names is not random; rather, it reflects a specific arrangement known as the “ceremony in the air,” a significant event described in the Lotus Sutra where all the Buddhas, bodhisattvas, and deities gathered to hear Shakyamuni Buddha expound the Law.
Key figures inscribed on the Gohonzon include:
- Bodhisattvas of the Earth: Led by Bodhisattva Superior Practices (Jogyo in Japanese), these bodhisattvas represent the enlightened beings who embrace and propagate the Lotus Sutra in the Latter Day of the Law, the current age according to Buddhist cosmology.
- Four Heavenly Kings: Representing the protective deities of Buddhism, their inclusion on the Gohonzon symbolizes the protective functions of the universe.
- Bodhisattva Universal Worthy (Fugen) and Bodhisattva Manjushri (Monju): As embodiments of practice and wisdom, respectively, their names on the Gohonzon illustrate the unity of practice and wisdom.
- Taho Buddha (Many Treasures) and Shakyamuni Buddha: These two Buddhas, who appear together in the Lotus Sutra, symbolize the eternal nature of Buddhahood.
- Devadatta and the Dragon King’s daughter: As figures who represent the possibility of attaining enlightenment despite apparent obstacles—Devadatta being a villain, and the Dragon King’s daughter, a female—they manifest the universality of Buddha nature.
- Shoten Zenjin (Buddhist gods): They represent the protective functions of life and the universe that support practitioners.
The Gohonzon also includes Sanskrit seed syllables associated with various Buddhas and bodhisattvas, further signifying the unity of all Buddhas and the universality of the Law.
Each inscription on the Gohonzon carries a distinct symbolic meaning, together forming a cosmogram that encapsulates the teachings of the Lotus Sutra as interpreted by Nichiren. This detailed, symbolic schema serves to mirror the life state of Buddhahood, aiming to awaken practitioners to the inherent Buddha nature within their own lives.
How does the Gohonzon benefit practitioners in Nichiren Buddhism?
Imagine a wellspring, constantly bubbling forth with life-giving water, nourishing and revitalizing everything it touches. That’s what the Gohonzon represents in Nichiren Buddhism – a rich source of benefits that empower individuals on their journey toward Buddhahood.
Unlocking Inner Potential:
- Awakening Buddha Nature: The Gohonzon acts like a mirror, reflecting the inherent Buddha nature within each individual. As practitioners chant and engage in devotion, they begin to recognize and cultivate this potential, leading to greater wisdom, compassion, and resilience.
- Enhanced Life Force: The Gohonzon helps practitioners tap into their innate life force, known as Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. This potent energy empowers them to overcome challenges, face obstacles with courage, and embrace life with renewed vigor.
- Deeper Self-Awareness: Through the practice of daimoku before the Gohonzon, individuals gain a deeper understanding of their own thoughts, emotions, and motivations. This self-awareness allows for greater self-control and the ability to navigate life’s complexities with clarity and purpose.
Transformation and Flourishing:
- Developing Positive Qualities: As practitioners chant and engage with the Gohonzon, they begin to cultivate positive qualities like compassion, courage, and wisdom. These qualities permeate all aspects of their lives, leading to improved relationships, greater fulfillment, and a more harmonious existence.
- Overcoming Difficulties: The Gohonzon serves as a powerful source of support and encouragement during challenging times. By focusing on the Gohonzon and chanting daimoku, practitioners can tap into a reservoir of strength and overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
- Achieving Goals and Dreams: The Gohonzon empowers individuals to set ambitious goals and take concrete actions to achieve them. It fuels their determination, enhances their focus, and instills a sense of confidence that allows them to manifest their dreams.
Beyond Individual Benefits:
- Contribution to World Peace: Nichiren Buddhism emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings. By chanting and engaging with the Gohonzon, practitioners not only benefit themselves but also contribute to the greater good. Their positive energy ripples outwards, creating a more peaceful and harmonious world for all.
- Building a Community of Support: The Gohonzon fosters a sense of belonging and community among Nichiren Buddhists. Through shared practice and activities, individuals create a network of support that strengthens their faith and provides encouragement on their individual journeys.
- Empowering Future Generations: The Gohonzon serves as a bridge between generations, transmitting the valuable teachings of Nichiren Buddhism for years to come. By practicing and sharing their experiences, practitioners ensure that future generations can benefit from this profound wisdom and contribute to the creation of a brighter future.
Ultimately, the benefits of the Gohonzon extend far beyond the individual practitioner. It serves as a potent force for positive transformation, not only for individuals but also for the world as a whole.
Imagine you’re gazing into a mirror, not to check your outfit or fix your hair, but to peer deep into the essence of who you are—your fears, hopes, and the very core of your spirit. This is what the Gohonzon offers, a spiritual mirror reflecting the innermost workings of your heart and mind.
Picture the Gohonzon as a profound symbol, not just an object of reverence but a dynamic tool for self-reflection and inner transformation. It embodies the Buddha’s wisdom, encouraging you to recognize and unleash the virtues of compassion, wisdom, and courage that lie dormant within you.
Nichiren, a sage who deeply pondered life’s intricacies, emphasized that the Gohonzon isn’t something to be sought externally. It’s not a distant or external entity but something deeply personal and intrinsic to your being. When you chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo before the Gohonzon, you’re not reaching out to an external force but tapping into your innermost potential, stirring it to life.
Think of the Buddha not as a remote figure to be worshipped but as the highest state of life that you, too, can attain. This perspective shifts your focus from seeking external validation or intervention to cultivating your inner strengths and virtues.
Engaging with Gohonzon through chanting is more than a ritual; it’s a practice of introspection and empowerment. It’s about facing your inner self, acknowledging your desires, fears, and aspirations, and channeling your prayers not just for personal happiness but for the well-being of others as well.
When you chant with sincerity, peering into the Gohonzon, you confront and challenge the negativity that hinders your growth. Each chant is a step toward breaking through the impasses of life, fostering a positive and determined spirit to overcome any challenge.
Nichiren Shoshu and Soka Gakkai have different views on Gohonzon
Nichiren Shoshu and Soka Gakkai International (SGI) are two major organizations within Nichiren Buddhism, and indeed, they hold differing views regarding the Gohonzon, which is a central object of devotion in this tradition. These differences primarily revolve around matters of lineage, legitimacy, and the role of the priesthood.
Nichiren Shoshu: Nichiren Shoshu is a sect of Nichiren Buddhism that traces its lineage back to Nichiren himself through successive High Priests. In Nichiren Shoshu, the Gohonzon inscribed by Nichiren Daishonin is regarded as the fundamental object of devotion. Members of Nichiren Shoshu are bestowed a transcription of the original Gohonzon, which they enshrine in their homes for daily practice. According to Nichiren Shoshu doctrine, these transcriptions are inscribed by the successive High Priests who are believed to inherit the “Living Essence of the Law” from Nichiren. Hence, the High Priest is seen as indispensable in the practice of Nichiren Shoshu Buddhism.
Soka Gakkai International (SGI): Soka Gakkai is a lay Buddhist organization that originated within Nichiren Shoshu but separated from the priesthood in 1991. This split was a result of doctrinal disputes and disagreements over the role of the priesthood and the laity. Post this separation, Soka Gakkai no longer recognizes the authority of the Nichiren Shoshu High Priest, emphasizing instead the direct relationship between individual practitioners and the Gohonzon. Soka Gakkai members receive a replica of the Gohonzon inscribed by the organization’s third president, Daisaku Ikeda, for their personal practice. According to SGI doctrine, the Gohonzon is a tool to help individuals reveal their innate Buddha nature, and faith, practice, and study are the crucial elements for enlightenment, rather than reliance on a priestly figure.
Despite these differences, both groups fundamentally adhere to Nichiren Daishonin’s teachings and the practice of chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo to the Gohonzon, underlining the shared core within this diverse tradition.
You can reference more:
- Who is Nichiren Daishonin: https://www.nichirenshoshu.or.jp/eng/daishonin.html
- The Lotus Sutra: https://www.bdk.or.jp/document/dgtl-dl/dBET_T0262_LotusSutra_2007.pdf
