Chanting O-daimoku or reciting “Namu Myoho Renge Kyo” is not simply a signal to start and end the ceremony and hoza.
“Namu” is the transliteration of the Sanskrit “Namo” and it means, “I give my body and soul”. Therefore, “Namu Myho Renge Kyo” means nothing but sincere expression of “I give my body and soul to the Lotus Sutra.”
Shakyamuni Buddha became a buddha through practicing what is taught in the Lotus Sutra, therefore, we also must recite O-daimoku with the vow of “we sincerely believe in the Lotus Sutra and promise to practice it.” Through that vow, Buddha and we become connected.

It is said that O-daimoku simply is not a phrase. It is indispensable “belief” that connects us with Buddha and it is an original source of belief that is expressed orally in words.

 

From Shabyo-mui
Kosei 07/2004

 

We frequently mention the phrase, “Shine the light of the Dharma”.
Sharing and conveying how precious the teaching, such as sharing things like “I received such result (merit) as I practiced according to the teaching” or “things have turned out for the better as we changed the way we saw and thought” is the way to show and shine the light of the Dharma
Also, through our own personal practice of the faith, if others gain the will to practice the faith themselves, those people themselves are shining the light of the Dharma.

As we all know, it is said in the Lotus Sutra, praising and preaching the teaching will lead to receiving the greatest merit.
On the other hand, neglecting the teaching or slandering the teaching to mislead or perplex the mind of others will “put out the light of the Dharma.” There is no serious crime than this. It is considered as “Killing the Seeds of Dharma” and is strictly prohibited.

Kaiso Zuikan-Vol. 6
Kosei 08/2004

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