-- Robert E. Morrell, Washington University

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin is a written record of the philosophy and correct practice of Nichiren Buddhism. As important as that text is, however, understanding the words of a medieval Japanese priest and incorporating them into 21st century life can be a daunting task. Let's face it you can't apply what you can't understand. Enter Waking the Lion: a Study Guide to The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin written with the lay believer in mind. Each chapter of this book covers one gosho, or letter, of Nichiren's. Each includes a brief introduction, an overview of what Nichiren says in that gosho (including explanations of difficult terms) and most importantly how to apply Nichiren's words to your practice and your life. Like Nichiren's teachings, Waking the Lion is not meant to be simply read, but lived. Be forewarned: reading it may awaken the lion within. So take a healthy stretch, dear reader, and get ready to roar--.

An authoritative translation of 172 of Nichiren's writings presented in chronological order. The collection includes Nichiren's five major works as well as other treatises setting forth his doctrine, writings remonstrating with government officials, and letters offering advice, encouragement, or consolation to believers. The translations are based on those of Burton Watson, formerly of Columbia University and an award-winning translator of Chinese and Japanese literature. Edited by the Soka Gakkai's Gosho Translation Committee, these are the translations used by English-speaking Soka Gakkai members the world over.

Gleaned from more than sixty years of Daisaku Ikeda's works, thisrevised edition adds new selections that further provide a windowinto the SGI president's thought and philosophy. His words are aboundless source of inspiration, hope, and courage for a worldincreasingly beset with sorrow and suffering.Chapters in this volume:“What Is True Happiness?”“Developing a Life State of Happiness”“The Practice for Transforming Our State of Life”“&‘It Is the Heart That Is Important'”“Transforming Suffering Into Joy”“The Principle of Cherry, Plum, Peach, and Damson”“Happiness for Both Ourselves and Others”“Facing Illness”“Creating a Brilliant Final Chapter in Life”“Joy in Both Life and Death”

Addressing questions such as What constitutes a meaningful life? and What is true happiness?, this guide to Nichiren Buddhism presents the spiritual practice as a teaching of hope that can answer these and other important questions of modern life. Buddhist teacher Daisaku Ikeda offers insights into The Opening of the Eyes, a longer treatise written by Nichiren that calls for individuals to base themselves on a spirit of compassion and to fight for the happiness of others, regardless of the circumstances. Ikeda’s simple and straightforward commentary brings this integral writing to life for a contemporary readership. Through the text and the accompanying commentary, readers will not will discover a philosophy of inner transformation that will help them find deep and lasting happiness for themselves and for others.

Where have we come from and where do we go? Why are human beings born? Are our lives just random events or do they have some greater purpose? What is the meaning of death? Nichiren Buddhism, based on the Lotus Sutra, is a teaching of hope that provides answers to these and other important questions for modern life. Ranked among the most important works in Mahayana Buddhism, Nichiren’s 13th-century writings were revolutionary. They sought to give people a deep sense of confidence and self-reliance in this lifetime by exploring the topics of death and eternal life. In his The Heritage of the Ultimate Law of Life, Nichiren explains the ultimate Buddhist view, which frees people from both their fear of death and their unhealthy attachment to self. Daisaku Ikeda’s simple and straightforward commentary brings alive this important writing for the modern world. Thoughtful people of all faiths will resonate with his compassionate insights on the universal teaching of happiness that is Nichiren Buddhism.

Daisaku Ikeda, president of the worldwide Soka Gakkai International, elucidates the importance of studying Nichiren's writings as the foundation of Nichiren Buddhism as practiced by the Soka Gakkai International. His lectures bring Nichiren's immense wisdom, compassion, and courage into focus for the present age. In reading and studying these lectures, we learn how to apply in daily life Nichiren's profound philosophy for inner transformation and victory for both ourselves and others. The Hope-Filled Teachings of Nichiren will empower you to find hope and develop the strength and wisdom to bring forth your inherent potential.