The Gohonzon

The Gohonzon is a Buddhist scroll which is enshrined in a cabinet called a butsudan. It is a copy of the original Gohonzon which was inscribed by Nichiren Daishonin and is made up of Chinese and Sanskrit characters. On a superficial level, the Gohonzon is the object on which we focus when we chant Nam Myoho Renge Kyo.

However, on a much deeper level, the Gohonzon acts as a mirror which enables us to observe our lives. ALL aspects of life are depicted on the Gohonzon - aspects such as greed, anger and stupidity are there, as well as compassion, wisdom and courage, so when we chant in front of the Gohonzon we are able to see, reflected back at us, all aspects of our lives, both negative and positive.

In big bold characters down the centre of the Gohonzon is inscribed Nam Myoho Renge Kyo, reminding us that we ourselves are Buddha and have the power to transform negative into positive in all areas of our lives, in our immediate surroundings and in the wider world.