In Kamakura it seems there are many temples and sites dedicated to Nichiren. I saw many of these in my Spring visit to Japan this year. Kamakura is the ancient religious capitol of Japan and was so during Nichiren’s lifetime in the 1200’s.
During my walk with my Ninja gang lead by the fearless Konoichi Liz we came upon the temple Hongaku-ji. It is a marvelous and picturesque temple grounds, even more so during this misty cloudy Spring day.
Of specific interest was the Soshido hall. What is not mentioned on the website is that the hall is constructed in an egg shape and the bottom of the building comes to a point much the same as the top. It’s quite an architectural treat, and I’m no architect.
Upon ascending the stairs there is the ubiquitous offering box and a large outdoor incense burner. Inside behind rope barriers is an ornate alter with a meduim size (maybe 24 inches tall?) beautiful Gohonzon. The Gohonzon face is green, or more accurately emerald. The characters are printed in gold leaf. It is quite a gorgeous Gohonzon from an artistic standpoint.
In front of the Gohonzon is a large statue of Nichiren. My eyes are accustomed to these statues, I have one myself though not directly on my alter. Most SGI members would be uncomfortable with this vision, but that is merely due to our Taiseki-ji programming.
The thing I have never quite become used to seeing is how the statue of Nichiren, because of it’s size and equal placement with the Gohonzon, obscures not only Nichiren’s signature, but much of Nam Myoho Renge Kyo.
This seems awkward and contradictory. If Nichiren obscured his own sig - that’s somewhat understandable. Kinda like “dude, I’m here now, you don’t need to see my name”.
Covering Nam Myoho Renge Kyo… Does anyone understand the theology behind this?
Rev. Greg