Nichiren Practice

Daimoku: Namu Myōhō Renge Kyō

Nichiren Diashonin taught that by repeating the title of the Lotus Sutra, Namu Myōhō Renge Kyō—known as the daimoku, one could attain an enlightened state of awareness and oneness with the Buddha Nature. All of the various sects of Nichiren chant this mantra and it is easily the most distinguishable practice of Nichiren from other Buddhist traditions. The exact wording of the daimoku has a variety of interpretations. The two main versions of the daimoku are Namu Myōhō Renge Kyō which is used by the Nichiren Shū and Nam Myōhō Renge Kyō that is predominately used by the Nichiren Shōshū. As the daimoku is easy to pick up and practice by pe that is predominately used by the Nichiren-shū aople on an individual basis the wording may change due to individual interpretation and improvisation.






Benefits in Life, Both Spiritual and Physical

Chanting and meditation have both been shown to affect those who partake in these activities in many positive ways. Reduction of stress, general balance both mentally and physically and improved general wellbeing are all byproducts of these activities. The daimoku that functions as a Nichiren practitioner's main ritual falls into both of these categories. Many Nichiren practitioners have noted that "chanting Nam Myōhō Renge Kyō affects [their] life everyday by restoring the balance." Some describe this renewed harmony as a result of the vibrations from the physical act of chanting the daimoku whereas others find that the words of the daimoku help them to transcend the physical and become fully aware of their relationship with the Buddha-Nature.