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What is the significance of the Lotus Sutra's title "Myoho-renge-kyo" in Nichiren Buddhism?

The title "Myoho-renge-kyo" holds great significance in Nichiren Buddhism as it encapsulates the essence of the Lotus Sutra and its teachings. This title is a combination of three Japanese words: "myoho," "renge," and "kyo," which can be translated as "mystic law," "lotus flower," and "sutra" respectively.

The first word, "myoho," refers to the ultimate truth or the fundamental law that governs the universe. In Nichiren Buddhism, this law is seen as the interconnectedness of all things and the underlying principle that guides the workings of the universe. It is also believed that all beings possess the potential to awaken to this truth and manifest it in their lives.

The second word, "renge," symbolizes the lotus flower, which has deep spiritual significance in Buddhism. The lotus flower grows from the muddy waters, yet remains pure and beautiful. This represents the potential for enlightenment and liberation from suffering, even in the midst of the challenges and difficulties of life.

The third word, "kyo," means sutra or sacred text. The Lotus Sutra is considered the most important sutra in Nichiren Buddhism as it contains the teachings of the Buddha Shakyamuni on the ultimate truth and the path to enlightenment. It is believed that the Lotus Sutra is the highest and most complete expression of the Buddha's teachings, and chanting its title, "Myoho-renge-kyo," is a powerful means of connecting with its transformative power.

In Nichiren Buddhism, the title "Myoho-renge-kyo" is also seen as a mantra or a sacred phrase that can be chanted to awaken one's inherent Buddha nature and bring about positive changes in one's life. By chanting this mantra, practitioners seek to align themselves with the mystic law and the teachings of the Lotus Sutra, thus opening the path to enlightenment and liberation from suffering.

Furthermore, the title "Myoho-renge-kyo" is also a symbol of the unity of all Buddhist teachings. Nichiren Buddhism teaches that all schools and traditions of Buddhism ultimately lead to the same truth and that the Lotus Sutra is the ultimate expression of this truth. Therefore, the title serves as a unifying force for all Buddhists, regardless of their specific practices or beliefs.

In conclusion, the title "Myoho-renge-kyo" is of great significance in Nichiren Buddhism as it represents the ultimate truth, the transformative power of the Lotus Sutra, and the unity of all Buddhist teachings. Chanting this title is a central practice in Nichiren Buddhism, and it is believed to bring about profound changes in one's life and lead to the ultimate goal of enlightenment.