Let's bravely achieve our own unique missions, with the knowledge that through sincere faith and belief in the Gohonzon, we will enjoy ‘protection from without’ once our Buddha nature is manifested. How reassuring… the most important thing is faith.
"Wherever your daughter may frolic or play, no harm will come to her; she will move about without fear like the lion king."
(Reply to Kyo'o - The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, Vol.1, page 412) Selection source: Kyo no Hosshin, Seikyo Shimbun, July 7th, 2012
Background
This brief letter was written in the eighth month of the tenth year of Bun’ei (1273) and was addressed to Kyo’o, Shijo Kingo’s infant daughter. Since Kyo’o was then only one year old, however, it may be assumed that the letter was meant for Shijo Kingo and his wife, Nichigen-nyo. They had two children, Kyo’o (Sutra King) and another daughter, Tsukimaro (Full Moon), who was a year older. Both were apparently named by Nichiren Daishonin.
This letter was written in response to news that Kyo’o had become seriously ill. At this time the Daishonin was living in exile on Sado Island.
The Daishonin explains the significance of the Gohonzon, the object of devotion. At the Tatsunokuchi Persecution in 1271, the Daishonin revealed his identity as the Buddha of the Latter Day of the Law. Only after this did he begin to inscribe the Gohonzon and bestow it on his followers, particularly those who had staunch faith in his teachings.
In this letter, the Daishonin says that the boundless benefits of the Gohonzon will surely cure Kyo’o’s sickness and urges Kingo and his wife to believe firmly in the Gohonzon.
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