Nichiren Daishonin teaches that the fundamental law of the universe, Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, is the true aspect of life. Chanting this phrase allows people to directly express their enlightened nature and is the primary practice of SGI members.

Although the deepest meaning of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is revealed only through its practise, the literal meaning is: Nam (devotion), the action of practising Buddhism; Myoho (Mystic Law), the essential law of the universe and its phenomenal manifestations; Renge (lotus), the simultaneity of cause and effect; Kyo (sutra), meaning Buddha’s teaching or voice, symbolises the continuity of life throughout past, present and future.

“The Mystic Law is the supreme treasure in the universe. Chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo allows us to accumulate that treasure in our lives on a daily basis. At the same time, it functions to cleanse our lives of negative karma from past actions, just as pure water flushes out dirty water.”

Daisaku Ikeda, 1993