The Japanese Teacher Nichiren Believed That The Essence Of Buddhism Could Be Found In The Lotus Sutra

The Japanese Teacher Nichiren Believed That The Essence Of Buddhism Could Be Found In The Lotus Sutra – Numerous teachers decided to analyze Buddhism better. Although, most of them succeeded. Others didn’t. Some of them mostly researched the essence of Buddhism, such as Nichiren. But who is Nichiren? And What is Lotus Sutra? Let’s find out.

Teacher Nichiren

Nichiren was a Buddhist priest living between 1222 and 1282. He is also the founder of Nichiren Buddhism. Which is a branch of Mahayana Buddhism. Nichiren was born in the village of Kominato. Although, mostly known for his devotion for the Lotus Sutra. Nichiren believed that the Lotus Sutras were the ultimate teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha. And they hold the key to enlightenment. Even at a really young age, Nichiren promised himself that he will study all the Buddhist sutras. Also, he will find a way to achieve Buddhahood. And to help others to achieve Buddhahood themselves.

The Japanese Teacher Nichiren Believed That The Essence Of Buddhism Could Be Found In The Lotus Sutra

The Lotus Sutra

The Lotus Sutra is the most popular between the Mahayana sutras. These ancient works form the essence or core beliefs of Buddhist schools such as Nichiren, Tientai, Tendai and Cheontae. The Lotus Sutras are sacred for numerous Buddhist schools. They represent the final teachings of The Buddha. Therefore, they contain the ultimate steps toward salvation.

The origin of The Lotus Sutra is unknown. But numerous professors and archaeologists tried to, at least, date the work. Therefore, Kogaku Fuse, after a rough analysis concluded something important for all Buddhists. The Lotus Sutra has been written in four main stages. And dating the work between 100 BCE (the oldest chapters) and 150 BC (the earliest chapters).

The Japanese Teacher Nichiren Believed That The Essence Of Buddhism Could Be Found In The Lotus Sutra – In conclusion, The Lotus Sutra is a highly important work for Mahayana Buddhists. And Nichiren built his own Buddhist school on the teaching of these texts. Becoming the essence of Buddhism. And the ultimate tools to achieve salvation.