Well, study for 2008 is off and running. The new Living Buddhism study series seems much more “grown up” to me, especially looking back to the old NSA days. SGI spends quite a lot of time discussing the Lotus Sutra in this period, something we didn’t do before.
Interestingly to me also is that mention of the Buddhism of Nichiren Shoshu is very much in decline. Members still talk about things they are familiar with, such as the Daigohonzon, but official publications mention it rarely if at all. In the March-April 2008 Living Buddhism Nichiren is referred to as follows;
“Bodhisattva Superior Practices. Having received the heritage of the Law from Shakyamuni and Many Treasures, is a bodhisattva who appears in this actual saha world as an ordinary human being. In order to realize the Lotus Sutra’s ideal of universal enlightenment, is necessary for him to not only practice the ultimate Law of cause and effect for attaining Buddhahood but also to embody it in his own life as a human being, and to then convey it to others in the Latter Day.”
For those of us who have practiced in NSA/SGI for awhile, we know how revolutionary an explanation such as this is, especially to be found in an official SGI publication.
Our view and beliefs in Nichiren’s Buddhism is evolving, this is clear. Certainly not fast enough for some, but too fast for others, as is the way of life. As the years have flown by, and especially after 1990 and the split with our former priesthood, I have tried to keep up on the goings-on of the other Nichiren sects, no easy task to be sure. To begin with I, like most Gakkai members, had no clue previously there was such a diversity of Nichiren groups in the world, both priest-based sects and lay organizations.
Clearly no group receives as much criticism than does the Soka Gakkai. Needless to say this can be hurtful to someone such as I who has been practicing in intimate districts and chapters for nearly 3 decades. One thing I’ve noticed, and which truly troubles me, is the effort to which many go to in order to criticize and oppose SGI-USA.
If there was one thing that could be pointed to as a cornerstone of SGI, in my opinion that would be “practice”. It’s what we do that perhaps other groups don’t, though obviously I intend that only as a literary generalization. Soka Gakkai’s tradition above all others is a tradition of practice, daily practice, practice for self and others, practice for Kosen Rufu. In the end its all practice.
Many of the more “orthodox” groups seem so intent on NOT being SGI that they overlook what I believe is a very simple truth, that in order to truly experience Nichiren’s Buddhism, the Buddhism of the Lotus Sutra, one must practice. Without practice, chanting Nam Myoho Renge Kyo often to the Gohonzon (or without), Nichiren’s Buddhism in this modern age really seems more like an esoteric and obscure belief system grounded in ideals and values from medieval Japan. This of course is my opinion only.
I have met and talked with former members who have tried to practice in other Nichiren sects. It’s not in my nature to brow-beat them or refute their actions, but in my conversations I have noticed a disconnect - a sort of missing link - in their new found “faith”. Their Gakkai training, the training that taught them to chant consistently, study, have discussion meetings and practice for other’s happiness seems to leave them subtly “dissatisfied” with their new groups. Yet many members suffer from experiences in the Soka Gakkai that make it impossible to continue to be members.
As a Gakkai leader it’s difficult to admit this, especially in writing. One thing I have had to accept is that not everyone will be able to practice in SGI. No doubt it’s the fault of inept leaders like myself. All I would wish for those who chose not to practice Nichiren’s Buddhism in the Soka Gakkai is not to become so opposed to SGI that they are unable to benefit from our most basic of values - the value of practice.
Cheers all!
Don
Posted by dshimoda at March 11, 2008 09:45 AMHi, Don! I hope we're moving in that direction, too - that is to say, not "throwing the baby out with the bathwater", and that individuals who are unwilling or unable to continue within the SGI's governance structure are still able to continue practicing, and do so with a sangha.
I also hope that the Gakkai develops a tolerance for individuals who make this choice. I'd like, for example, to hear Daisaku Ikeda acknowledge in one of his speeches, that people may have good faith reasons of conscience for leaving the Gakkai. At this point, the message from Japan is pretty much still framed in terms of "cowards" and "betrayers".
I absolutely loved your quote about Bodhissatva Superior Practice - this is really how I see Nichiren, as do most of the traditional Nichiren Buddhists I know. Note that he's not referred to as Bodhissatva Superior Theory, or Bodhissatva Superior Blogspace, or Bodhissatva Superior Debating Skills, but Bodhissatva Superior Practice. The practice itself is truly what I love best, and why I continue my membership in the Gakkai - I just love chanting with my friends.
Great post, Don! Keep 'em coming!
Best, Wahzoh
Posted by: Byrd in LA at March 11, 2008 01:25 PMDon, I ejoyed your article.
Just as Nichiren says, 'without practice and study there is no buddhism!'
Mrs. Martin put it best one day to me.
Mrs. Martin said, 'Human Revolution is like a bunch of potoates being washed together, each scrubbing each other."
This statement reminds me of a commercial potatoe peeler. All the potatoes rub against the rough surfce taking away their outer skin, until all the potatoes all look the same, fully peeled.
Whether a person is willing to learn how to 'play well with others' is a part of the process of the practice of Nichiren Daishoinin's Buddhism.
I imagine many of Nichiren's original disciples did not get along as they were from a diverse background; samurai, field worker, land owners, field hands, etc.; yet Nichiren encouraged all of them with such famous statements as "Cherry, peach, plum, dansom, all equal" to play together respectfully.
As a weathered harley rider; thirty -five years; my wife offered to buy a T-shirt for me. The T-shirt says, "Does not play well with others" I told my wife I do not want to advertise.
Through my own 'observation of my own mind' I find space to 'play well with others.
Human Revolution. Just don't mess with my Harley!
Believe it or not, this practice is about facing your own negativity and not blaming others for lacking the ability to face your own negativity, woithout assigning the negativity to another person, observe ones own mind and not the mind of another.
Don't hate the player hate the game.
Patrick
Posted by: Patrick at March 12, 2008 09:24 AMNice article Don.
Posted by: joe at March 13, 2008 10:39 PMThanks, Don;
I also see that LB article as a big paradigm shift...an acknowledgement of Nichiren as bodhisattva.
Nichiren wrote:
"...And I came to believe that, according to the teaching of the Lotus Sutra, the Sage Nichiren is the sovereign of the threefold world, the father and mother of all living beings, and the emissary of the Thus Come One Shakyamuni -Bodhisattva Superior Practices..."
Parent, teacher, sovereign...all qualities reserved for buddhas...here designated by Nichiren as qualities possessed by Bodhisattva Superior Practices.
We can forget the old baloney about Nichiren "casting off" his "transient" identity as Superior Practices to reveal his "true" identity as the Buddha of the Latter day.
The bodhisattva IS the buddha of the latter day...and that's you and I.
This is a huge step forward for the SGI.
David
It cracks me up when I read that you think it is wonderful that you have first of all misrepresented that "..no group receives as much criticism than does the Soka Gakkai", Isn't this just damage control for receiving the criticism? Can't you just picture a KKK member saying the same thing? And maybe you deserve the criticism. Buddhism is supposed to exist to relieve the pain and suffering of mankind, not exist so you can receive criticism.
Holding on to Human teachings and not the Buddha Teachings have led people into the alley of pain of crossing your fingers and looking west for the sun to rise faith and practice of Human devised religious rituals that have no power behind them. You can have all the books you want to recite from, but all the doctrine was human expounded, only the Ceremony in Space is preached by a Buddha. I know you are not hearing a word I am saying because your attachments are deep rooted, however some day you will be a Buddha, and none of the things you are doing will augment or retard this. There is no human revolution or Boston Green Tea Party,
Maltz
Posted by: Bruce Maltz at March 20, 2008 12:59 PMHi Don,
I wanted to make two comments about my own experiences since leaving the SGI.
Just so you know where I'm coming from, I practiced Independently for a couple of years after leaving SGI in 2002 after being a member for about 30 years. Then I met the people in my current Nichiren Shu Sangha (in Lexington, Ky) and I decided to
learn along with them. Since you mentioned you liked to talk with others who have left SGI I thought you may be interested in my own history.
You're right, leaving the comfort of a group which thinks the same way can shake up ones sense of security. I realized some people had studied the Buddha's teachings and understood more. I learned to open my mind to the very real possibility that I had something to learn.
This was four years ago and I feel my life is
more helpful to my family and community now and less
concerned with being "right". I have a clearer sense of what is wholesome and what is not. Other people are more important to me now as friends, NOT someone to convince to chant.
Recently I realized that my practice is
an everyday deal, that I've been progressing all along, beginning with SGI (and I do feel appreciation for those first steps of learning). I also appreciate those who in the end
disillusioned me about what SGI expects of 'loyal members'. Unless one has rocked that big boat it's a quiet, hidden reality. Those "good friends" pushed me out of the safety of the nest so I could continue to learn to practice...so they functioned as a mother bird in my life.
That is an important thing I learned in NSA (in the 70's when the valuable lessons I learned stressed appreciating all people-even those who tried to do you wrong)... that the best friends sometimes come in Halloween costumes-sometimes even dressed as "enemies". That term "enemy" has become capitalized and the definition has changed these days.
One recent change in my life is I don't try to "prove" my practice is better than any other. I don't try to fit the results of my practice into an experience (although these large
breakthroughs do happen). I don't pussyfoot around
what I see as reality. But I don't go out there itching for a fight, either.
The results of my practice are a bit quieter...for example NOT saying something because I see my motivation is wrong or
simply showing up quietly to support someone who's suffering WITHOUT TRYING TO MAKE THEM CHANT. I acknowledge the pain and am there as a friend who cares. I offer my prayers before and after the visit.
Because these lessons and results in my life
aren't dramatic they may seem less important at face value. This is a quieter process and a more
private one in many ways.
The second point I would like to make is that in
my understanding all of us who are reaching out to learn the Buddha's teachings are part of the Buddhist Sangha whether we belong to a formal school or are solitary in our search. I believe that not recognising this discourages people in their search for Buddhist teachings.
In talking with people interested in Buddhism I try to stress that fact-that we are all part of the Buddhist Sangha and any separations are part of the delusion which causes suffering.
I do enjoy your blog and appreciate your sincere
efforts to help other people with your practice.
With Gassho, Patty
Hi Don,
Forgive my ignorance here, is this a genuine site and are you a real person and not a figment of Richard Bach's imagination? (your picture with the plane kind of leads me to assume this..)
If you are the self-same person, we have much to talk about.
I am well versed in all matters of Buddhism, especially the Tibetan schools. However, I have no religion per se.
" Perspective - use it or lose it. Remember that everything around you is illusion" Remember?
We are all free to do whatever we want to do. All this talk of mentors / disciples / chanting , etc - ALL ILLUSION!
Let me know if you wish to talk further Don,
Happy flying,
L.
I'm real to the best of my knowledge, though somewhat more real after morning coffee. The plane isn't mine by the way, rather one I hope to own some day.
Don
Posted by: D.Shimoda at March 24, 2008 09:15 AMDon,
As I suspected. When you say you're real, what exactly do you mean?
Why put yourself in a picture with a plane that you don't actually possess by the way? Nice illusion though, suppose.
Cool words and anecdotes sound good to some; to others they drift away in the breeze of life like leaves falling from a autumn tree. Labels, words, titles, stop hiding behind them; they're pure illusion as are these very words. Nichiren, Buddhism, Christianity, Islam and all the rest have missed the point - as soon as you try to seek it, you miss it, it's already here, pure and simple.
L.
Hi Don,
I recently left the SGI after 5 years and now I practice with Nichiren Shu in Toronto. The bottom line is that although there are many benefits to chanting the SGI is a big-business cult. I feel foolish for having been with the org as long as I did. I do not miss the glassey-eyed Ikeda worship one little bit and I am grateful every day that I had the good sense to finally walk away. I find Nichiren Shu to be an authentic and grounded choice after almost overdosing on the evangelical positivism of the SGI.
My experience is that those who stay with the SGI are either needy/neurotic personality types with unrealistic and magical thinking, or they are arrogant and get-off on "only in the SGI are we practising the true Buddhism of Nichiren Daishonin" etc.
Again, I'm glad I could throw off the fear indoctrination and walk away.
Posted by: Aaron at March 26, 2008 09:11 PMHi Aaron,
Don't feel bad about your 5 years. It was 23 years before I walked away. The sense of relief was enormous.
My feeling is that Nichiren Shu is more in line with Nichiren's and the Buddha's teachings.
Michele
Posted by: Michele at March 26, 2008 11:34 PMDon,
Thanks for the blog.
I like that, as an SGI member, you are hoping that folks who leave the SGI don't abandon their practice entirely. I also like that you recognize that the SGI just isn't a good fit for some people... perhaps the day will come when those of us who leave aren't considered "cowards" or "betrayers". Your blog gives me hope that things might change.
Next, as a former SGI member and soon to be Nichiren Shu member, I am curious about your perception that more traditional Nichiren schools aren't as focused on a consistent daily practice. I have not found that to be so. I have found that the more publically obvious stuff, like really frequent meetings, and a focus on getting new members aren't as emphasized. Nonetheless, in my personal experience within Nichiren Shu, I've been encouraged to really take my personal practice a step further - it's not just about chanting, it's about living, moment to moment, in a way consistent with the path of the Lotus Sutra, and artfully interacting with the people and environment around us to awaken the buddhanature inherent in them.
Like Patty, I think we may choose an immediate sangha that best fits and supports our understanding of Buddhism; but we are really part of much larger sangha, which includes our other Nichiren Buddhist friends... it is my hope that we can all learn to get along within this greater sangha, and thereby contribute a model for peaceful coexistence to the world.
Again, your blog gives hope.
Namu Myo Ho Renge Kyo,
Kris
All I can add to these great comments is that I am a practice-oriented person. I find Buddhism in the practice, not the belief, theory or history. I hear many people talk about this or that sect being historically more correct, but truthfully that isn't tangible enough for me.
Like so many SGI members I was immediately attracted to the practice of chanting, not the history. I studied no Eastern religions in college and was not previously religious.
Though I know a fair bit about Buddhism now, I didn't when I started.
I know it's attractive to want to be a part of a group that fits your understanding, I suppose for myself I don't trust that I know the difference between understanding, individual perception or just plain baggage.
That's why I practice in SGI. Any other reason is probably just a rationalization.
Don
Posted by: D.Shimoda at March 28, 2008 10:19 AMHi Don,
And yet isn't practice without study and true faith not really much benefit at all. When I joined the SGI I was turned-on by the good stories, energy and number of people. As time went along I was turned off by the truth distortion, lack of authentic scholarship and cult of personality. How can anyone have faith in an organzation that is willfully misleading its membership? To each their own I guess.
The best part of the SGI is that Nam Myoho Renge Kyo is being chanted and it is of real benefit (since it is the ultimate Law) to the Buddhist. However, at a certain point this Buddhist could not continue to rationalize the above mentioned points of personal departure and sick-making cultapolooza that was going on.
Cheers!
Aaron
Cheers!
Aaron
Posted by: Aaron at March 28, 2008 01:44 PMDon,
You wrote: "I know it's attractive to want to be a part of a group that fits your understanding, I suppose for myself I don't trust that I know the difference between understanding, individual perception or just plain baggage."
Well, I don't know that I trust myself thoroughly either! That is why I like to fall back on the Lotus Sutra, as a "reality check" to make sure it's not just my perception and baggage. Then I look to the Gosho or earlier Buddhist stuff (i.e. the Eightfold Path, the 4 Noble Truths, for instance) if I need clarification. I'm relying on. That is why I like that you all are studying the Lotus Sutra more of late. It's a great thing to hear.
Thanks again for a nice blog, Don.
Kris
Don / All,
Good morning from a sunny and quite magical England. Sweet smelling spring breezes fill the air, gentle sound of bird chatter in the distance, abundant life blooming all around..
I strole out from my zazen contemplation area, awareness fine tuned. I draw its sword with a smile; slice through the illusion of the moment, melt into the day.
A strong breeze blows, I bend with it, bamboo in the wind. No fear, no death, no life, just ONE.
A tear, a smile, no judgement, just IS.
My cat stirs in the corner of the garden, hadn't noticed him even with my so called acute awareness;
He moves with the breeze and becomes its shape. The wind is a cat, momentarily. I piss myself with laughter and feel humbled, pure nature, no effort, no pretense, no hiding, no fear.
The Is is Life, Love, the Magnificent IT at the centre of your being.
The Is does not recognize the limitations of spacetime, nor does it recognize your sorrows, fears or beliefs.
It does not see you as an upright biped on the surface of a third planet from alittle sun
at the edge of a small galaxy of an insignificant universe sandwiched for a moment between multiple trillions of other universes.
It sees you reflecting itself, and allows you the absolute freedom to do anything you wish, except to die.
Argue for your limitations, and sure enough, they're yours..
L.
Posted by: Lucius at March 30, 2008 05:20 AMAll,
Your brain-washed pretentious So-Called Buddhist silence is deafening
Think about that
L.
Posted by: Lucius at April 4, 2008 11:54 AM"We can forget the old baloney about Nichiren "casting off" his "transient" identity as Superior Practices to reveal his "true" identity as the Buddha of the Latter day." Has being in the SGI made you lose your memory ??????????
That is all I heard from 1965 to 2000, and then stopped paying attention. This is MAPPO, there is no Buddhist Practice, there is no Buddhism, that is why you don't get any results, you are just fooling yourself and you know it, but you won't admit it, you are unhappy, depressed, faking a smile, and when I read not everyone can practice in the SGI, boy thata was GOOOOOOOD NEWS!
MALTZ
Posted by: Bruce Maltz at April 7, 2008 06:37 PM