Abstract

This Buddhist essay focuses on faith experiences and insights into Buddha's compassion that arise from everyday interactions with believers. Through numerous episodes, the merits of faith and the importance of chanting the Odaimoku are discussed, with the book also featuring a long-running series from the Nichiren-shu quarterly magazine and new writings about the author's own life. The book also offers straightforward explanations on the teachings of the Lotus Sutra and about faith. The author emphasizes that the core teaching of Buddhism is to cultivate a compassionate heart that seeks happiness with others, and this is the true merit of faith. Moreover, the reason why this merit arises through the Odaimoku is explained. Packed with tips for spending each day with a calm mind, this book by an author who has spent many years living by the Odaimoku reveals the power of faith and what it means to live a life that tastes true happiness.

Author’s Information

Myoka Seno
Born in Yokohama in 1945. After graduating from Rissho Gakuen Girls' High School, she assisted in the activities of the Nichiren Buddhist missionary office, "Myokoketsu-sha", run by her mother. She married a man who was devoted to Buddhist practice under her mother. Eventually, to support her husband who left his teaching job to become a monk, she herself entered the priesthood in 1980. She has devoted herself to guiding her followers through the joys and sorrows of life according to the teachings of the Lotus Sutra and Nichiren. She has made a committed effort to share the joy of living a Buddhist life and the power of the mantra with many people through lectures and writings. She serialized "Minna Butsu no Ko" in the Nichiren sect's missionary quarterly "Mandala" for ten years. Her writings, which are based on Buddhist teachings and rooted in daily life, have been well-received and have generated considerable response.