Nichiren Shoshu (日蓮正宗) is the school of True Buddhism—the teaching of the ultimate truth for the happiness of all people.
True Buddhism Revealed
More than 3,000 years ago Shakyamuni Buddha expounded the Lotus Sutra, foretelling that in the age after his passing the True Buddha would appear to reveal the Law that saves all people. On February 16, 1222, Nichiren Daishonin—born in the province of Awa—fulfilled that prophecy. Through decades of teaching, persecution, and victory he established the correct practice for the Latter Day of the Law.
On October 12, 1279, Nichiren Daishonin inscribed the Dai-Gohonzon of the High Sanctuary for all humankind. Today the High Priest of Nichiren Shoshu transcribes the Gohonzon so believers around the world can enshrine it in their homes.
The Gohonzon embodies the enlightened life of the True Buddha. By chanting to the Gohonzon we polish our own lives and reveal our inherent Buddha nature.
Daily Practice
Nichiren Shoshu practice has two parts that support one another every day.
Primary Practice: Chanting Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo to the Gohonzon. This is the seed of Buddhahood, the life of the True Buddha, and the Law of the universe itself. Chanting brings forth wisdom, happiness, and benefit in daily life.
Supporting Practice: Performing Gongyo—the recitation of selected portions of the Lotus Sutra and silent prayers, carried out each morning and evening.
Through these two practices we align with the Mystic Law and create the causes for lasting joy in every aspect of life.
Benefit of Practice
When we practice Nichiren Shoshu Buddhism—chanting Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo and doing Gongyo—we receive two kinds of benefit.
Conspicuous benefit: Immediate, visible results that clearly show cause and effect.
Inconspicuous benefit: Gradual yet profound improvement, like a tree growing steadily over time.
Together, these benefits transform our lives and enable us to live with courage, wisdom, and joy.
Introductory meetings, daily Gongyo, and temple tours are available each week.
History of Myogyoji Temple
From a humble farmhouse to a regional hub for the Hokkeko, Myogyoji Temple has steadily expanded to serve practitioners throughout the Midwest and Southern states.
Local believers purchase the West Chicago property
Lay leaders in Illinois pooled resources to acquire farmland along Illinois Route 59, envisioning a permanent temple that could welcome believers from across the region.
Construction of the original temple hall begins
Volunteers, contractors, and visiting priests worked side-by-side to frame the main hall, dedicate the altar space, and plant the first cedar trees on the grounds.
Myogyoji Temple is formally opened for worship
The resident priest welcomed hundreds of members for the enshrinement of the Gohonzon, establishing daily Gongyo, weekly study meetings, and introductory sessions for newcomers.
Education wing and dormitory renovations
Growing attendance prompted the addition of classrooms, family lodging, and a larger dining area so visiting believers could stay on-site during extended guidance trips.
Livestreaming and remote study launch
Myogyoji Temple began broadcasting priest lectures and daimoku sessions, ensuring members in distant states remained connected to the head temple’s guidance.
Regional leaders coordinate 17-state support
State leaders formed dedicated travel teams, interpreter groups, and youth support so believers from Minnesota to Florida could attend major ceremonies together.
Grounds renewal and accessibility upgrades
New meditation gardens, accessible entrances, and energy-efficient lighting created a welcoming environment for first-time visitors and long-time practitioners alike.
Abridged Chronology of Nichiren Shoshu
Key milestones from Nichiren Daishonin’s birth to the establishment of Head Temple Taisekiji illuminate how the Mystic Law has been passed to the present day.
Nichiren Daishonin is born in Kataumi, Awa Province
His birth fulfills the Lotus Sutra’s prophecy of the True Buddha who will reveal the Law for the Latter Day.
Declaration of True Buddhism at Seicho-ji
Nichiren Daishonin proclaims Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo as the sole teaching to lead all people to enlightenment.
Submission of the Rissho Ankoku-ron
He petitions the Kamakura government to embrace the correct Law so the nation can experience peace and security.
