May 18, 2006
Why Sort it Out?
I mean the history. Over the centuries, there have been major and minor feuds that divided and sub-divided Nichiren's followers. Most of these were either resolved long ago, or are now moot. Taking sides now is ludicrous.
From 1285-1289, Nikko revolted against the terms of Nissho's settlement with the Hojo Regency of the Kamakura Shogunate. Nikko may well have been right. But that has no bearing today. I have little interest in defending the actions of Nissho, Nichiro, & Niko. If we determine that Nissho should have made a stronger stand, then what do we do about it? I do not even know what their actions were, not with any certainty. Arguing who was right only impedes objective fact finding.
There were other squabbles that even sub-divided Nikko's lineage. These are all interesting to study. But other than academics; getting the various conflicting
histories reconciled, to the extent possible, so what?
What should matter, IMCO, to SGI, is re-examining Nichiren Shoshu teachings as strongly as Nichiren Shoshu re-examined the SGI approach. That is the main reason to sort it out.
IMO, SGI's attachment to Taisekiji dogma, especially Nikko as Sole Heir; and the baggage that entails, disorts the intention of Nichiren's Practice, which is "Kanjin". It, Taisekiji dogma, results in ARBN, Soka Spit, etc.
Viewing Nichiren as the Original Buddha of Kuon Ganjo results in supercessionist nonsense that separates us from the rich tradition of authentic Buddhism. It also impedes transcending the temporal limits of Nichiren's vision.
Then there is the Ita-Honzon issue.
Those are not only academic issues.
Posted by rbeck at May 18, 2006 01:28 AMDo I give a damn....very funny, where do you get this stuff?
VW
LOL. Supercessionism is Dharmajim's word.
ARBN is an old usenet news group where aging SGI & Hokkeko members slime one another. It is dominated by a veteran Hokkeko member/Internet Bully. I 'spam it' occasionally.
alt . religion . buddhism . nichiren
I should stay away. All the civil posters got tired of being attacked and left. The people there can get viscious. They taunt, smear, & belittle. If anyone retaliates, they accuse them of personal attacks. If they get disgusted & leave, they claim victory.
A few decent people chime in on rare occasions.
Hi Robin,
Interesting post. I particularly liked the phrase “impedes transcending the temporal limits of Nichiren’s vision.” I suspect you made up the word supercessionist since I couldn’t find a definition of it on onelook.com OK by me, I plan on making up more words myself in the coming months. Also, I couldn’t figure out what ARBN means.
VW