The Buddhist traditions
Nichiren and Soka Gakkai
Chanting the title of the Lotus Sutra: Nichiren's Buddhism and the worldwide Soka Gakkai movement.
What it is
Nichiren (1222-1282), a Japanese monk, taught that the Lotus Sutra is the Buddha's highest teaching and that chanting its title, Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, opens Buddhahood in this life. Soka Gakkai, founded in 1930 by Tsunesaburo Makiguchi and Josei Toda and led for decades by Daisaku Ikeda, spread this practice worldwide; members often chant for happiness, health and success.
Our response
Chanting a phrase to change one's circumstances treats spiritual power like a technique. Jesus taught his followers not to heap up empty phrases, because the Father knows what they need. Prayer in the Bible is not a formula but conversation with a Father.
7In praying, don’t use vain repetitions as the Gentiles do; for they think that they will be heard for their much speaking. 8Therefore don’t be like them, for your Father knows what things you need before you ask him.
Matthew 6:7-8 (WEB) · context
6In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7 (WEB) · context
15For you didn’t receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!”
Romans 8:15 (WEB) · context
Sources
- Jacqueline Stone, Original Enlightenment and the Transformation of Medieval Japanese Buddhism (University of Hawaii Press, 1999).
- Daniel Metraux, The History and Theology of Soka Gakkai (Edwin Mellen, 1988).