Interfaith Dialogue: Applying Buddhist Values

  Brief Outline

  I. Different Eras Have Different Tasks that are Primary for Spreading and Practicing Buddhism (and fighting the “one great evil”)

During the Daishonin’s time the “one great evil” was other religions that threatened people’s happiness (particularly Nembutsu).

Nichiren became known as a “militant” for his strong refutation of other religions and active participation in many debates.

But his main goal was a compassionate one … to “impart joy and remove suffering,” not to debate for the sake of debate.

Nichiren established and clarified his school in clear distinction to all other forms of Buddhism; he did this so well that we don’t have to recreate the wheel (and re-do what he already did so well).

After the Daishonin’s death there were many “nationalistic” interpretations of his Buddhism, but they were incorrect.

Our goal now is to work on what is appropriate to our times.

Not to continue to repeat distinctions and refute the validity of other religions.

Our goal is to work together with others to solve the problems of the world, help them become happy, and to show actual proof 

We are still focusing on the “one great evil;” in our day and times this is the dehumanization of other people, the emphasis on differences, etc. (as outlined in Sensei’s 2002 Peace Proposal).

We need to “meet people where they are.”

This is the basis and forum for Interfaith Dialogue following in the compassionate tradition of Nichiren and relevant to our times.

• Nikken Sect threatens people’s happiness; misinterprets correct practice of Nichiren Buddhism.
• It stands alone in its aim to undermine kosen-rufu movement of the SGI.
• It’s also in a unique position to create confusion regarding correct spirit and practice of Nichiren Buddhism.