Nichiren Shoshu Buddhism is a living practice that anyone can begin. Below are five steps to help you start strong and stay encouraged.
Chanting is spoken aloud and rhythmic. Begin with a comfortable pace and focus on your voice resonating with the Gohonzon. Start with five minutes in the morning and evening, increasing as you feel ready.
Tip: Use a gentle clapping rhythm to stay steady. The temple offers chanting audio guides—ask a member for access.
Gongyo consists of reciting portions of the Lotus Sutra in Japanese along with five silent prayers. Attend Morning and Evening Gongyo at the temple to learn correct pronunciation and pace.
Wednesday evenings include “slow Gongyo” specifically for beginners.
Read introductory materials like What is Buddhism? and What is Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo? Keep a notebook of insights and bring your questions to temple members or priests.
Connect with local members who can chant with you, remind you about meetings, and offer encouragement. True Buddhism is practiced together—the spirit of itai doshin (many in body, one in mind).
As you build consistency, speak with the chief priest about receiving the Gohonzon. Set up a respectful Buddhist altar (Butsudan) in a quiet space at home.
Track morning/evening Gongyo, daimoku goals, study, and activities. Request the printable PDF from the temple office or download from the resources page.
Get recordings of daimoku, Gongyo, and silent prayers. Listening while practicing helps memorize the rhythm.
Temple members are available for chant-along sessions (online or in-person). Ask for a point of contact in your neighborhood.
The Mystic Law of cause and effect. Chanting aligns our lives with the ultimate truth of the universe.
Daily recitation of the Lotus Sutra’s essential passages plus silent prayers, performed morning and evening.
The scroll inscribed by the High Priest that embodies the life of the True Buddha. Enshrined at the temple and in practitioners’ homes.
A traditional set of prayer beads used during Gongyo and chanting. Ask the temple for guidance on holding them properly.
The compassionate practice of sharing Buddhism so others can reveal their Buddha nature and transform their lives.
