From Gokokuji Temple Kamakura Vol.10

Let's Practice True Buddism.

For this time, I'd like to explain about KARMA.

THREE CATEGORIES OF ACTION:

THOUGHTS, WORDS, AND DEEDS. 

This term indicates actions carried out with the body, words spoken with the mouth, and thoughts that arise in the mind      

The thoughts that arise in the mind become the karma of the mind.     When these thoughts manifest as physical actions, they become the karma of the body.  When they manifest as words, they become the mouth.                  
The effects we see at present are due to the three categories of action we have taken since our past existences. Whether good or bad, the three categories of action we take at present will result in future effects.

KARMA:

Nichiren Daishonin expounds the principle of immutable and mutable karma. 

Immutable karma leads to a predetermind effect of suffering or joy in one's future. Mutable karma does not necessarily result in predetermined effect. There are not three circumstances regarding the time when one receives karmic retribution: (1) one receives retribution in one's present life time: (2) one receives retribution in the next lifetime:(3) one receives retribution in one's lifetime after the next, or subsequent, future lifetime.                          

Buddhism teaches that the different characteristics that people possess, such as differences in the country of birth or place of residence, differences in personal abilities, and differences in appearance are all based one the effect of their karma accurate from previous lifetime.  

It is said that people are continuously affected by the karma created by good and evil acts committed in past lives.  However, the principle of karma is different from the idea of fatalism.  

Therefore, it is important to understand that one can change one's life in the future through one's present good and evil actions.  Nichiren Daishonin teaches that even if one possesses evil karma, one can eradicate slander against the Law from past lifetimes and attain a better life state through the benefit of faith and practice of the Three Great Secret Laws in one's present lifetime. So, let's practice Nichiren Daishonin's teaching concerning karma and overcome any obstacle and changes.

From Gokokuji-temple, we all hope and pray that everyone has wonderful year.

M.Hoshino

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If you have any questions, please reply to this e-mail. We are happy to help you to understand what the true Buddhism is.

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 Risshozan Gokokuji Temple

International Division

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