From Gokokuji Temple Kamakura Vol.06

Dear Fellow

Friends We hope everything is fine with all of you.

We are going to give you some beneficial information which is cited and summarized on the book titling “Nichiren Shoshu Basics of Practice” published by Nichiren Shoshu. Today is Chapter 3. The theme is Gongyo　(the source of Fortune). Please try to read!

Chapter3

 Gongyo

The Source of Fortune

　The first thing a new believer learns from his or her sponsor is how to do Gongyo. This is because Gongyo and Shodai (chanting Daimoku) to the Gohonzon are the most basic, important practices in faith. In Nichiren Shoshu, faith and the practice of Gongyo are in separable.

　Even though the new believer is always told that Gongyo is a powerful, important practice, many people find that they soon lose the self-motivation to do Gongyo. This may happen for a variety of reasons. Some people find it troublesome to do Gongyo every day, and others feel embarrassed when people see them doing Gongyo.

　On the other hand, people who have been doing Gongyo for many years may slip into doing it automatically, out of force of habit. They may forget to take Gongyo seriously, and have a halfhearted attitude when sitting in front of the Gohonzon.

　However, when Gongyo is done earnestly every day, it is a powerful engine for building a happy life. When we do this practice thoroughly and earnestly, we receive actual proof of the fortune of embracing the Gohonzon. Our hearts are filled with boundless joy, and we realize that having faith in the Gohonzon is a wonderful, unsurpassed treasure. Therefore, we should continuously renew our determination to practice Gongyo thoroughly and sincerely every day.

Written by Yuto Kobayashi

Question&Answer

Question:what is the specific meaning of having the prayer beads?

Answer:The prayer beads are used for the purpose of encouraging the faith and practice at the time of facing Gohonzon with genuine heart. Since ancient times it is so advised that the prayer beads should be treated the same as Buddha with a sutra in careful mind. A ring of prayer beads is hung up on the middle finger of palm, and the ring with two tassels is set on left hand and three tassels on the right, and it must cross by twisting in the middle of the ring.

Notice

Dear fellow friends.

We appreciate your reading the Mail-magazine or other information so far sent from Gokoku-ji. temple here in Kamakura.

Now we like to further inform you that in hope of your keeping up interest in our Buddhism and bracing up the faith toward Nichiren Daishonin teachings, our  Nichiren Shoshu temples or relative organizations nearby in your country will  make closer contact with you for future necessary guidance and inquiries. Therefore, please acknowledge the above.

Many thanks.

Nichiren Shoshu Gokoku-ji

International Division

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