One week with the date of the vernal equinox or autumnal equinox put in the middle is called Higan. Generally, the Japanese recall their ancestors and mourn for the departed souls visiting tombs or temples during the week. This Buddhist … Read More
In Japan, there is a festival that parents celebrate and wish for their children’s growth called Shichi-Go-San (七五三). Children dress up in kimonos and visit a Shinto shrine or Buddhist temple. Children also look forward to Chitose-ame (Thousand-year Candy). It … Read More
At the head temple Yuseiji in Kyoto, Joya Hoyo is held from 11 pm on New Year’s Eve just before Gantan-e starts from 12:00 am on New Year’s Day. The night of New Year’s Eve is called Joya. In general, … Read More
Our sect name, Honmon Butsuryu Shu (本門佛立宗), was originally named by Nichiren Shonin and presented to the world by Nissen Shonin. The name can be found clearly in Nichiren Shonin’s treatises: You should know that I, Nichiren established the Hokke … Read More
Q. A friend of mine is trying to take the Bar Exam. I am thinking I should pray for him to perform well. What kind of prayer should I make? A. I would recommend inviting your friend to the temple … Read More
Q. Someone told me that we should not take pictures of Gohonzons. Could you explain why? A. Shortly after entering the priesthood, I wondered the same thing myself. I was told that taking pictures of the Gohonzon is rude, though I never got … Read More
Q. How do we deal with loved ones who don’t treat us well? A. Human relationships can be quite difficult at times. Despite this reality, HBS members often have the best of human relationships. When we chant the Odaimoku and offer stupas … Read More
Q. I know chanting Odaimoku is the most important part of the practice. Is there anything else you could suggest, such as an added prayer? (Questioned by a non-HBS-member American man) A. You can make prayers for anything you want … Read More
Q. Do you recommend that I chant directly to a wall? It’s a bit awkward with no Gohonzon at the moment, but I thought I’d ask your advice. A. Before acquiring a Gohonzon (upon your conversion), you can chant Odaimoku anytime, anywhere. You don’t have to … Read More
Q. Should Odaimoku be pronounced Namu Myōhō Renge Kyō when I chant? A. No, you do not have to chant it this particular way. When you chant Odaimoku, you can pronounce it Nam Myōhō Renge Kyō. It will definitely be easier to pronounce this way. Whenever … Read More
