Nichiren Daishonin depicted his enlightenment in the form of a mandala or scroll called the Gohonzon. Faith in the Gohonzon is expressed in the wisdom and resolve to manifest the life state of Buddhahood through value-creating behaviour in our daily life.

It is the individual’s own faith and determination that activates the Gohonzon’s power. Receiving the Gohonzon is a commitment to take responsibility for revealing our unique purpose. “Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, Nichiren” is written down the centre, representing the idea that enlightenment can only be revealed in the way in which we live and behave.

Other characters on the Gohonzon are symbolic of all the functions and states of life, both positive and negative existing in life. A spiritual mirror to reflect our inner potential for enlightenment, prayer to the Gohonzon is an opportunity to reflect and make determinations based on appreciation for our life itself.

“Never seek this Gohonzon outside yourself. The Gohonzon exists only within the mortal flesh of us ordinary people who embrace the Lotus Sutra and chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo.”

Nichiren Daishonin’s Writings Vol 1 p.832