The Practice of Gongyo

The Japanese word gongyo literally means "assiduous practice." In the practice of Nichiren Buddhism it means reciting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, and portions of the second chapter Expedient Means and the sixteenth Life Span chapters of the Lotus Sutra in front of the Gohonzon. This is the fundamental practice of Nichiren Buddhism, which is performed morning and evening.

The Liturgy of Nichiren Daishonin
The portions of the Expedient Means and Life Span Chapters of the Lotus Sutra recited in the practice of Gongyo.

See also the literal translations of these sections.

(Audio files for learning Gongyo and other topics for new SGI members are available in the New member section of this site.)

The Origins of Gongyo
While Nichiren Daishonin emphasized the importance of daily reciting the "Expedient Means" and "Life Span" chapters, he never mentioned a specific format. Over the centuries, the format of gongyo has changed several times. This describes those changes from the Daishonin's day to the present, to the extent that they are known.

See Also:
About the Object of Devotion - The Gohonzon
The New Youth Division Website

"The Victory of the youth division of the SGI-USA signifies the victory of the youth division throughout the world"... Daisaku Ikeda, President, Soka Gakkai International
Youth Division Website

Florida Culture and Nature CenterFlorida Nature and Culture Center

The FNCC is located on 125 acres of restored wetlands surrounding Toda Lake. Here amid the Live Oak trees and Sabal Palms native to the Florida landscape, discussions on Buddhism, philosophy and everyday life take place in a relaxing atmosphere.
Member Resources: Florida Nature and Culture Center