Questions and Answers on the Object of Devotion Chapter14-1

In the more than 2,230 years since the World-Honored One expounded this object of devotion, there has been no one who has propagated it throughout the continent of Jambudvīpa. T’ien-t’ai in China and Dengyō in Japan understood it to some extent but did nothing to propagate it. But now the time has come for its propagation. According to the Lotus Sutra, Superior Practices, Boundless Practices, and other bodhisattvas should now come forth to propagate it, but they have yet to make their appearance.

I, Nichiren, am not one of their group, but to some extent I understand what is to be done and so, until those bodhisattvas who sprang up from the earth make their appearance in the world, I have busied myself proclaiming their message as best I can. And, as the Lotus Sutra predicts when it says “how much more will this be so after his [the Buddha’s] passing,” I have met with the difficulties one may expect when propagating the sutra.

I earnestly pray that the blessings deriving from such activities may be transferred to my parents, my teacher, and to all living beings. I am writing you to inform you of this and to answer the questions that you have raised. I hope that you will set aside all other practices and will address yourself to this object of devotion, praying wholeheartedly for your next life.

I will be writing you again later about this matter. Please give my greetings to the other priests.

Nichiren