Nichiren Buddhism

A Japanese school holding the Lotus Sutra as the one complete path.

1253 CE → · Japan · Dharmic

Founded by the reformer Nichiren in 13th-century Japan, this tradition teaches that the Lotus Sutra contains the Buddha’s highest truth and that anyone can awaken in this very life by chanting its title, Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. Known for its fervor and social engagement, it gave rise to many later movements. Modern lay organizations descended from it are among the most active Buddhist groups worldwide.

Key figures

• Nichiren (founder)

Texts

• The Lotus Sutra

Beliefs

• The Lotus Sutra as the supreme teaching
• Buddhahood attainable in this life
• Chanting as the essential practice

Rituals

• Chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo
• Devotion before the Gohonzon

Grew from

• Mahāyāna Buddhism

Connections in the atlas

• Risshō Ankoku Ron
• Nichiren
• The Japanese (Yamato)
• ▶ How Buddhism crossed Asia
• The Lotus Sūtra