Soka Gakkai and Nichiren Shoshu have a long and complex history intertwined with the development of modern Nichiren practice. At its core, Soka Gakkai is a lay-based organization that follows the teachings of Nichiren, a 13th-century Japanese Buddhist monk. Nichiren Shoshu, on the other hand, is a sect of Buddhism that traces its lineage directly back to Nichiren himself.

The relationship between Soka Gakkai and Nichiren Shoshu can be traced back to the early 20th century when Tsunesaburo Makiguchi and Josei Toda, two educators and followers of Nichiren, formed the Soka Kyoiku Gakkai (Value-Creating Education Society). This organization later evolved into what is now known as Soka Gakkai.

At the same time, Nichiren Shoshu was also undergoing changes, with its leader, High Priest Nittatsu Hosoi, actively seeking to expand its membership and spread the teachings of Nichiren. This led to a close relationship between Soka Gakkai and Nichiren Shoshu, with Soka Gakkai members often attending Nichiren Shoshu temples for guidance and support.

However, tensions began to arise between the two organizations in the 1960s when Soka Gakkai started to gain more influence and power within Nichiren Shoshu. This led to conflicts over control and authority, with Nichiren Shoshu accusing Soka Gakkai of deviating from traditional Nichiren teachings and placing too much emphasis on its own organization.

In 1991, the relationship between Soka Gakkai and Nichiren Shoshu reached a breaking point when Nichiren Shoshu excommunicated Soka Gakkai and its leader, Daisaku Ikeda. This was a significant event in the history of modern Nichiren practice, as it marked the end of the close relationship between the two organizations.

Since the excommunication, Soka Gakkai has continued to grow and evolve as an independent lay-based organization, while Nichiren Shoshu has remained a sect of Buddhism with its own distinct teachings and practices. Despite their differences, both organizations continue to follow the teachings of Nichiren and strive to spread his message of peace and humanistic values.

In conclusion, the relationship between Soka Gakkai and Nichiren Shoshu has been a complex and evolving one, shaped by their shared history and beliefs. While they may have parted ways, both organizations continue to play important roles in promoting and practicing modern Nichiren Buddhism.