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{{Short description|Japanese Buddhist religion (1938–present)}}
{{multiple issues|
{{Infobox organization
{{third-party|date=February 2014}}
| name = Risshō Kōsei Kai
{{Refimprove|date=November 2007}}
| full_name =
| native_name = 立正佼成会
| native_name_lang = ja
| logo =
| logo_size =
| logo_alt =
| logo_caption =
| image = Rissho Kosei-kai (Great Sacred Hall).jpg
| image_size = 250px
| alt =
⚫
| caption = Risshō Kōsei Kai headquarters (The Great Sacred Hall) in Tokyo, Japan.
| predecessor =
| merged =
| successor =
| formation = {{Start date and age|1938|03|05}}
| founder = {{unbulleted list
|[[Nikkyō Niwano]]
|[[Myōkō Naganuma]]
}}
| founding_location = [[Tokyo]]
| type = [[New religious movement]]
| headquarters = 2-11-1 Wada, Suginami-ku, [[Tokyo]] 166-8537, [[Japan]]
| origins =
| region =
| products =
| services =
| key_people = [[Nichiko Niwano]]
| website =
}}
}}


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{{nihongo|'''Risshō Kōsei Kai'''|立正佼成会}}; until June 1960, {{nihongo|大日本立正交成会||'''Dai-Nippon Risshō Kōsei Kai'''}} is a [[Japanese new religions|Japanese new religious movement]] founded in 1938 by [[Nikkyō Niwano]] and [[Myōkō Naganuma]]. Risshō Kōsei Kai is organized as a lay Buddhist movement, which branched off from the older [[Reiyūkai]], and is primarily focused around the [[Lotus Sutra]] and [[veneration of the dead#East Asian cultures|veneration of ancestors]].
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[[Image:Rissho Kosei-kai (Great Sacred Hall).jpg|thumb|230px|right|Rissho Kosei Kai headquarters (The Great Sacred Hall) in Tokyo, Japan.]]
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{{nihongo|'''Risshō Kōsei Kai'''|立正佼成会; until June 1960, 大日本立正交成会: '''Dai-Nippon Risshō Kōsei Kai'''}} is a [[Japanese new religions|Japanese new religious movement]] founded in 1938 by [[Nikkyo Niwano]] and [[Myoko Naganuma]]. Rissho Kosei Kai is organized as a lay Buddhist movement, which branched off from the older [[Reiyukai]], and is primarily focused around the [[Lotus Sutra]] and [[Ancestor veneration#East Asian cultures|veneration of ancestors]].


==History==
==History==
[[Image:Rissho Kosei-kai (principal image of the Great Sacred Hall).jpg|thumb|upright=0.9|left|Inside of the Great Sacred Hall]]
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[[Image:Rissho Kosei-kai (principal image of the Great Sacred Hall).jpg|thumb|190px|left|Inside of the Great Sacred Hall]]Rissho Kosei-kai was founded on March 5, 1938 by [[Nikkyo Niwano]] and [[Myoko Naganuma]], both former members of the Buddhist sect [[Reiyūkai]].<ref>{{cite book|last=Tamura|first=Yoshiro|title=Japanese Buddhism: A Cultural History|pages=203|publisher=Kosei Publishing|year=2001|isbn=9784333016846}}</ref> Rev. Niwano met Ms. Naganuma while he was engaged in missionary work with Reiyukai and the two became close friends. In 1938, they attended a Reiyukai meeting in which its president made remarks that lectures and study of the Lotus Sutra were out of date. After hearing that and consulting with each other, they determined that they could not support such ideas and left Reiyukai.<ref name="history">{{cite web|title=History of Rissho Kosei-kai|url=http://www.rkhawaii.org/rkhistory.htm|publisher=Rissho Kosei-kai Hawaii}}</ref> It was then that they decided to form a new organization. The first meeting was held at Mr. Niwano's house and some 30 people joined at that time.


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Risshō Kōsei Kai was founded on March 5, 1938 by Nikkyō Niwano and Myōkō Naganuma, both former members of the Buddhist sect [[Reiyūkai]].<ref>{{cite book|last=Tamura|first=Yoshiro|title=Japanese Buddhism: A Cultural History|pages=203|publisher=Kosei Publishing|year=2001|isbn=9784333016846}}</ref> Niwano met Naganuma while he was engaged in missionary work with Reiyūkai and the two became close friends. In 1938, they attended a Reiyūkai meeting in which its president made remarks that lectures and study of the [[Lotus Sutra]] were out of date. After hearing that and consulting with each other, they determined that they could not support such ideas and left Reiyūkai.<ref name="history">{{cite web|title=History of Rissho Kosei-kai|url=http://www.rkhawaii.org/rkhistory.htm|publisher=Risshō Kōsei Kai Hawaii|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://archive.today/20120915104157/http://www.rkhawaii.org/rkhistory.htm|archivedate=2012-09-15}}</ref> It was then that they decided to form a new organization. The first meeting was held at Niwano's house and some 30 people joined at that time.
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[[Image:Rissho Kosei-kai Original Headquarters.jpg|thumb|230px|right|Original Headquarters]]
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The organization grew quickly, and by 1941, membership had reached 1,000. For a short period between 1949 and 1950, Rissho Kosei-kai served as a lay auxiliary organisation of [[Nichiren Shū]], but Niwano could not stem what he considered to be the liberal policies of Nichiren Shū.<ref>Montgomery, Daniel (1991). Fire in the Lotus, The Dynamic Religion of Nichiren, London: Mandala, ISBN 1852740914, p. 237</ref> No longer able to meet at Rev. Niwano's house, construction on a new headquarters began. However, as membership continued to grow the new headquarters also became too small and work on the Great Sacred Hall, or {{nihongo|'''daiseidō'''|大聖堂||}}, began in the late 1950s'. Myoko Naganuma, who had been serving as Vice-President, died before the Great Sacred Hall was completed, dying on September 10, 1957. Seven years later, it would be completed.


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[[Image:Rissho Kosei-kai Original Headquarters.jpg|thumb|upright=1|right|Original headquarters]]
It was also then that Rissho Kosei-kai began to become active in interfaith co-operation. Nikkyo Niwano had a private audience with [[Pope Paul VI]] at the [[Second Vatican Council]] in 1965 and later attended the 20th world congress of the IARF in 1969. In 1970 Rev. Niwano helped to form the World Conference of Religions for Peace and became a leader of the WCRP.<ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline of Rissho Kosei-kai|url=http://rk-world.org/timeline.html|publisher=Rissho Kosei-kai}}</ref>
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The organization grew quickly, and by 1941, membership had reached 1,000. For a short period between 1949 and 1950, Risshō Kōsei Kai served as a lay auxiliary organisation of [[Nichiren-shū]], but Niwano could not stem what he considered to be the liberal policies of Nichiren-shū.<ref>Montgomery, Daniel (1991). ''Fire in the Lotus, The Dynamic Religion of Nichiren'', London: Mandala, {{ISBN|1852740914}}, p. 237</ref> No longer able to meet at Niwano's house, construction on a new headquarters began. However, as membership continued to grow the new headquarters also became too small and work on the Great Sacred Hall, or {{nihongo||大聖堂|daiseidō}}, began in the late 1950s. Myōkō Naganuma, who had been serving as Vice-President, died in September 1957, seven years before the Great Sacred Hall was completed.


In 1991, Nikkyo Niwano stepped down as President and his son, Nichiko Niwano, who had been appointed successor and was at that time serving as vice president, took over as president in a special ceremony.<ref name="president">{{cite web|title=President Nichiko Niwano|url=http://rk-world.org/presidentniwano.aspx|publisher=Rissho Kosei-kai}}</ref>
It was also then that Risshō Kōsei Kai began to become active in interfaith co-operation. Nikkyō Niwano had a private audience with [[Pope Paul VI]] at the [[Second Vatican Council]] in 1965 and later attended the 20th World Congress of the IARF in 1969. In 1970 Niwano helped to form the World Conference of Religions for Peace and became a leader of the WCRP.<ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline of Rissho Kosei-kai|url=http://rk-world.org/timeline.html|publisher=Risshō Kōsei Kai}}</ref>


In 1991, Nikkyō Niwano stepped down as president and his son, Nichiko Niwano, who had been appointed successor and was at that time serving as vice president, took over as president in a special ceremony.<ref name="president">{{cite web|title=President Nichiko Niwano|url=http://rk-world.org/presidentniwano.aspx|publisher=Risshō Kōsei Kai}}</ref>
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Nichiko Niwano had been designated his successor in 1960. In 1994, Nichiko's eldest daughter, Mitsuyo Niwano, was made Vice President and designated successor.<ref name="history"/> She was given the Buddhist name Kosho by her father and grandfather and is known to members as “Kosho-sama” with “Sama” being an honorary title. Nikkyo Niwano continued to engage in interfaith activities and participate in Rissho Kosei-kai activities even though he handed over the presidency in 1991. He died on October 4, 1999.


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Nichiko Niwano had been designated his successor in 1960. In 1994, Nichiko's eldest daughter, Mitsuyo Niwano, was made Vice President and designated successor.<ref name="history"/> She was given the Buddhist name Kosho by her father and grandfather and is known to members as "Kosho-sama", with {{transliteration|ja|-sama}} being an honorary suffix title in Japanese. Nikkyō Niwano continued to engage in interfaith activities and participate in Risshō Kōsei Kai activities, despite no longer being president. He died on October 4, 1999.
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In 2008, Rissho Kosei-kai International of North America was established because of growth of interest in the group in America and Canada. In summer 2009, the United States celebrated the 50th anniversary of the group there, holding a gathering in [[Las Vegas]], [[Nevada]], which President Niwano attended.<ref>{{cite web|title=Rissho Kosei-kai Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Dissemination in U.S.|url=http://rk-world.org/news09aug_us_50th.aspx|publisher=Rissho Kosei-kai}}</ref>

⚫
In 2008, Risshō Kōsei Kai International of North America was established because of growth of interest in the group in the United States and Canada. In summer 2009, the US celebrated the 50th anniversary of the group, holding a gathering in [[Las Vegas]], which President Niwano attended.<ref>{{cite web|title=Risshō Kōsei Kai Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Dissemination in U.S.|url=http://rk-world.org/news09aug_us_50th.aspx|publisher=Risshō Kōsei Kai}}</ref>
As of 2010, there are over 240 churches and centers in 20 countries.<ref>{{cite web|title=Locations|url=http://rk-world.org/contactlist.aspx#japan|publisher=Rissho Kosei-kai}}</ref> Membership currently stands at 6.5 million members,<ref name="history"/> with the majority living in Japan.
{{As of|2010}}, there are over 240 churches and centers in 20 countries.<ref>{{cite web|title=Locations|url=http://rk-world.org/contactlist.aspx#japan|publisher=Risshō Kōsei Kai}}</ref> Membership currently stands at 6.5{{nbsp}}million members,<ref name="history"/> with the majority living in Japan.


==Structure==
==Structure==
Rissho Kosei-kai is run, both religiously and administratively, by a board of directors, with the Chairman being the head. The office of the President is the highest spiritual office, and he is the chief spiritual leader and master of ceremony. Duties include visiting churches and centers, representing Rissho Kosei-kai at interfaith and cultural events, giving sermons, speeches and greeting guests. He holds much importance and plays an active role in how the church is run. However, it is the board of directors that holds the final say on all matters.
Risshō Kōsei Kai is run, both religiously and administratively, by a board of directors, with the Chairman being the head. The office of the President is the highest spiritual office, and he is the chief spiritual leader and master of ceremony. The office of the President is a hereditary office held only by the direct descendants of Nikkyō Niwano. Duties include visiting churches and centers, representing Risshō Kōsei Kai at interfaith and cultural events, giving sermons, speeches and greeting guests. He holds much importance and plays an active role in how the church is run. However, it is the board of directors that holds the final say on all matters.


==Characteristics==
==Characteristics==
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Even though being regarded as a descendant of Reiyūkai and [[Nichiren Buddhism]] it has developed distinct features in terms of doctrine and objects of worship to the extent, that some regard Risshō Kōsei Kai as a separate Buddhist denomination outside of Nichiren Buddhism, thus it has a number of features in common with other Nichiren sects:<ref>Montgomery, Daniel (1991). ''Fire in the Lotus: The Dynamic Religion of Nichiren'', London: Mandala, {{ISBN|1852740914}}, p. 238</ref>


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* Devotion to the Lotus Sutra as the highest teaching in Buddhism.
⚫
Even though being regarded as a descendant of Reiyukai and [[Nichiren Buddhism]] it has developed distinct features in terms of doctrine and objects of worship to the extent, that some regard Rissho Kosei-kai as a separate Buddhist denomination outside of Nichiren Buddhism, thus it has a number of features in common with other Nichiren sects:<ref>Montgomery, Daniel (1991). Fire in the Lotus, The Dynamic Religion of Nichiren, London: Mandala, ISBN 1852740914, p. 238</ref>
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* Belief in the [[Buddha-nature]] of all beings.

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* Recitation of [[Namu Myōhō Renge Kyō]] as a Buddhist practice.
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* Devotion to the [[Lotus Sutra]] as the highest teaching in Buddhism.
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* Belief in [[Buddha-nature]] of all beings.
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* Recitation of the [[odaimoku]] as a Buddhist practice.
* [[Evangelism]] of Buddhist teachings, and in particular the Lotus Sutra.
* [[Evangelism]] of Buddhist teachings, and in particular the Lotus Sutra.
* Veneration of [[Nichiren]] as teacher and [[bodhisattva]]. He is frequently referred to as {{nihongo|'''daibosatsu'''|大菩薩||"Great Bodhisattva"}} in Rissho Kosei Kai liturgy.
* Veneration of [[Nichiren]] as teacher and [[bodhisattva]]. He is frequently referred to as {{nihongo|'''daibosatsu'''|大菩薩||"Great Bodhisattva"}} in Risshō Kōsei Kai liturgy.


=== Object of Devotion ===
=== Object of Devotion ===
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Risshō Kōsei Kai venerates the [[Eternal Buddha]], the central figure of the Lotus Sutra, instead of a [[gohonzon]].<ref name="handbook">{{cite book | editor = Kotaro Suzuki | title = Introduction to Rissho Kosei-Kai For Our New Members | publisher = Rissho Kosei Kai International | year = 2007 | pages=3, 15 and 30}}</ref> The central temple, the Great Sacred Hall, features a statue of the Eternal Buddha that is 6.09 meters tall and 3.03 meters wide. The imagery of the Eternal Buddha used in the Great Sacred Hall, and all temple altars, is of a standing Buddha enveloped in a fiery halo, within are four, smaller Bodhisattvas:

⚫
Rissho Kosei Kai venerates the [[Eternal Buddha]], the central figure of the Lotus Sutra, instead of a [[gohonzon]].<ref name="handbook">{{cite book | editor = Kotaro Suzuki | title = Introduction to Rissho Kosei-Kai For Our New Members | publisher = Rissho Kosei Kai International | year = 2007 | pages=3, 15 and 30}}</ref> The central temple, the Great Sacred Hall, features a statue of the Eternal Buddha that is 6.09meters long and 3.03 meters wide. The imagery of the Eternal Buddha used in the Great Sacred Hall, and all temple altars, is of a standing Buddha enveloped in a fiery halo, within are four, smaller Bodhisattvas:
* Bodhisattva Eminent Conduct
* Bodhisattva Eminent Conduct
* Bodhisattva Boundless Conduct
* Bodhisattva Boundless Conduct
Line 44: Line 71:
* Bodhisattva Steadfast Conduct
* Bodhisattva Steadfast Conduct


Further above the Buddha's head is a small image of the [[stupa]] of the [[Prabhutaratna|Buddha Abundant Treasure]], featured in Chapter 11 of the Lotus Sutra.
Further above the Buddha's head is a small image of the [[stupa]] of [[Prabhutaratna]], featured in Chapter 11 of the ''Lotus Sutra''.


Additionally, members enshrine a {{nihongo|'''Sōkaimyō'''|総戒名||"Family Posthumous Name"}}, which is a kind of certificate and object of veneration that represent the collective ancestors of that member. Because it is not feasible to provide each ancestor with a posthumous Buddhist name, the ancestors as a whole are venerated through the Sokaimyo.<ref name="handbook" />
Additionally, members enshrine a {{nihongo|'''Sōkaimyō'''|総戒名||"Family Posthumous Name"}}, which is a kind of certificate and object of veneration that represents the collective ancestors of that member. Because it is not feasible to provide each ancestor with a posthumous Buddhist name, the ancestors as a whole are venerated through the Sokaimyo.<ref name="handbook" />


===Basic Teachings===
===Basic Teachings===
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Risshō Kōsei Kai places a strong emphasis on studying the Lotus Sutra and the Buddha's teachings. They affirm the basic teachings of Buddhism, such as the [[Four Noble Truths]], the [[Noble Eightfold Path]] and the Three Seals of the Law, among their core teachings.<ref>{{cite web|title=Teachings|url=http://rk-world.org/education.aspx|publisher=Risshō Kōsei Kai}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Rissho Kosei Kai|url=http://philtar.ucsm.ac.uk/encyclopedia/easia/rissho.html|publisher=Division of Religion and Philosophy University of Cumbria}}</ref> The Threefold Lotus Sutra is the group's chief scripture. It is viewed as containing the highest teachings of Gautama Buddha.

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Rissho Kosei-kai places a strong emphasis on studying the Lotus Sutra and the Buddha's teachings. They affirm the basic teachings of Buddhism, such as the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path and the Three Seals of the Law, among their core teachings.<ref>{{cite web|title=Teachings|url=http://rk-world.org/education.aspx|publisher=Rissho Kosei-kai}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Rissho Kosei Kai|url=http://philtar.ucsm.ac.uk/encyclopedia/easia/rissho.html|publisher=Division of Religion and Philosophy University of Cumbria}}</ref> The Threefold Lotus Sutra is the groups chief scripture. It is viewed as containing the highest teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha.


===The Buddha and the Dharma===
===The Buddha and the Dharma===
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Adherents believe that Gautama Buddha was the first human to be awakened to the Dharma, which is believed to be an invisible entity that sustains, guides and improves the lives of all living things.<ref>{{cite web|title=The Focus of Devotion|url=http://rk-world.org/devotion.aspx|publisher=Risshō Kōsei Kai}}</ref> They refer to this life force as the Eternal Buddha, teaching that it is omnipresent and universal.

⚫
Adherents believe that [[Shakyamuni]] Buddha was the first human to be awakened to the Dharma, which is believed to be an invisible entity that sustains, guides and improves the lives of all living things.<ref>{{cite web|title=The Focus of Devotion|url=http://rk-world.org/devotion.aspx|publisher=Rissho Kosei-kai}}</ref> They refer to this life force as the Eternal Buddha, teaching that it is omnipresent and universal.


===Daily Practice===
===Daily Practice===
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Members begin and end each day by chanting parts of the Lotus Sutra and saying various prayers and vows before family altars in their home.<ref>{{cite web|title=Sutra Recitation|url=http://rk-world.org/recitation.aspx|publisher=Risshō Kōsei Kai}}</ref> The center of the altar is the Focus of Devotion, either a scroll with an image of the Eternal Buddha Shakyamuni on it or a small statue of the Eternal Buddha. Members leave offerings of rice, water and tea before the image.


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=== Hōza or Dharma Circle ===
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Members begin and end each day by chanting parts of the Lotus Sutra and saying various prayers and vows before family altars in their home.<ref>{{cite web|title=Sutra Recitation|url=http://rk-world.org/recitation.aspx|publisher=Rissho Kosei-kai}}</ref> The center of the altar is the Focus of Devotion, either a scroll with an image of the Eternal Buddha Shakyamuni on it or a small statue of the Eternal Buddha. Members leave offerings of rice, water and tea before the image.
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Another practice frequently found in Risshō Kōsei Kai services and meetings is the {{nihongo|'''hōza'''|法座||"Dharma Circle"}} which is a kind of informal, group session led by a trained leader, in which members sit in a circle, discuss their problems or their shortcomings, and other members listen and provide advice. The discussions usually will explore how Buddhism and insight can be applied to help the person with the problem, and encourage a sense of trust and community between members.<ref name="handbook" />

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=== Hoza or Dharma Circle ===

⚫
Another practice frequently found in Rissho Kosei Kai services and meetings is the {{nihongo|'''hōza'''|法座||"Dharma Circle"}} which is a kind of informal, group session led by a trained leader, in which members sit in a circle, discuss their problems or their shortcomings, and other members listen and provide advice. The discussions usually will explore how Buddhism and insight can be applied to help the person with the problem, and encourage a sense of trust and community between members.<ref name="handbook" />


===Holidays===
===Holidays===
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Risshō Kōsei Kai observes various Buddhist and Japanese holidays, including [[Parinirvana Day]], Buddha's Birthday, Bodhi Day, and [[Higan]]. They also have special gatherings to mark important events in the organizations history, such as memorial services for the Founder and Co-Founder and the Anniversary of the Founding of Risshō Kōsei Kai.<ref>{{cite web|title=Annual Memorial Days and Special Ceremonies and Events|url=http://rk-world.org/memorial.aspx|publisher=Risshō Kōsei Kai}}</ref>

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Rissho Kosei-kai observes various Buddhist holidays, including [[Nirvana Day]], Buddha's Birthday and Bodhi Day. They also have special gatherings to mark important events in the organizations history, such as memorial services for the Founder and Co-Founder and the Anniversary of the Founding of Rissho Kosei-kai.<ref>{{cite web|title=Annual Memorial Days and Special Ceremonies and Events|url=http://rk-world.org/memorial.aspx|publisher=Rissho Kosei-kai}}</ref>


== Interfaith and peace activities ==
== Interfaith and peace activities ==
Since its founding, Rissho Kosei-kai has sought to cooperate with other religions and work with the [[United Nations]] and a variety of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs).<ref>{{cite web|title=Cooperation with Religious and Secular Organizations|url=http://rk-world.org/peace/coop.aspx|publisher=Rissho Kosei-kai}}</ref>
Since its founding, Risshō Kōsei Kai has sought to cooperate with other religions and work with the [[United Nations]] and a variety of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs).<ref>{{cite web|title=Cooperation with Religious and Secular Organizations|url=http://rk-world.org/peace/coop.aspx|publisher=Risshō Kōsei Kai}}</ref>


===Interfaith co-operation===
===Interfaith co-operation===
Nikkyo Niwano was one of the founders of the [[World Conference of Religions for Peace]]. Since the founding of the WCRP in 1970, Rissho Kosei-kai has been actively involved with the organization <ref>{{cite web|title=World Conference of Religions for Peace|url=http://rk-world.org/wcrp.aspx|publisher=Rissho Kosei-kai}}</ref> and currently President Nichiko Niwano is a president of the WCRP.<ref name="president"/>
Nikkyō Niwano was one of the founders of the [[World Conference of Religions for Peace]]. Since the founding of the WCRP in 1970, Risshō Kōsei Kai has been actively involved with the organization <ref>{{cite web|title=World Conference of Religions for Peace|url=http://rk-world.org/wcrp.aspx|publisher=Risshō Kōsei Kai}}</ref> and currently President Nichiko Niwano is a president of the WCRP.<ref name="president"/>


In 1981 Nikkyo Niwano was elected as the President of the [[International Association for Religious Freedom]] and in 1984 hosted the IARF at the Great Sacred Hall.<ref>{{cite web|title=International Association for Religious Freedom|url=http://rk-world.org/iarf.aspx|publisher=Rissho Kosei-kai}}</ref>
In 1981 Nikkyō Niwano was elected as the President of the [[International Association for Religious Freedom]] and in 1984 hosted the IARF at the Great Sacred Hall.<ref>{{cite web|title=International Association for Religious Freedom|url=http://rk-world.org/iarf.aspx|publisher=Risshō Kōsei Kai}}</ref>


Nichiko Niwano is currently the President of the Japanese branch of the WRCP and Chairman of Shinshuren. The organization is also involved with the Asian Conference of Religions for Peace<ref>{{cite web|title=Asian Conference of Religions for Peace|url=http://rk-world.org/acrp.aspx|publisher=Rissho Kosei-kai}}</ref> and maintains close ties to the [[Unitarian Universalist Association]]. The interfaith relationship with the Unitarian-Universalist Association is the closest one the latter American liberal organization has ever achieved.<ref>Meyer, Joffre D. [http://english.ohmynews.com/articleview/article_view.asp?at_code=437595&no=385764&rel_no=1 Interfaith Soul Mates for 40 Years. The Unitarian-Universalist Association (UUA) and the Rissho Kosei-kai (RKK)]</ref>
Nichiko Niwano is currently the President of the Japanese branch of the WRCP and Chairman of Shinshuren. The organization is also involved with the Asian Conference of Religions for Peace<ref>{{cite web|title=Asian Conference of Religions for Peace|url=http://rk-world.org/acrp.aspx|publisher=Risshō Kōsei Kai}}</ref> and maintains close ties to the [[Unitarian Universalist Association]]. The interfaith relationship with the Unitarian-Universalist Association is the closest one the latter American liberal organization has ever achieved.<ref>Meyer, Joffre D. [http://english.ohmynews.com/articleview/article_view.asp?at_code=437595&no=385764&rel_no=1 Interfaith Soul Mates for 40 Years. The Unitarian-Universalist Association (UUA) and the Risshō Kōsei Kai (RKK)]</ref>


===UNICEF and United Nations===
===UNICEF and United Nations===
Rissho Kosei-kai has supported UNICEF since 1979 and members regularly participate in campaign activities related to UNICEF. It has also supported and participated in a number of UN programs, including the second Special Session of the United Nations General Assembly Devoted to Disarmament held in 1982.<ref>{{cite web|title=UNICEF and United Nations|url=http://rk-world.org/unicef.aspx|publisher=Rissho Kosei-kai}}</ref>
Risshō Kōsei Kai has supported UNICEF since 1979 and members regularly participate in campaign activities related to UNICEF. It has also supported and participated in a number of UN programs, including the second Special Session of the United Nations General Assembly Devoted to Disarmament held in 1982.<ref>{{cite web|title=UNICEF and United Nations|url=http://rk-world.org/unicef.aspx|publisher=Risshō Kōsei Kai}}</ref>


===Humanitarian projects===
===Humanitarian projects===
Rissho Kosei-kai engages in numerous campaigns to end hunger and poverty, support the environment and work for peace. In the late 1960s, Rissho Kosei-kai began to advocate the Brighter Society Movement, a public-spirited undertaking through which the local churches of Rissho Kosei-kai cooperate with local governments, welfare organizations, and volunteer groups throughout Japan.<ref>{{cite web|title=Rissho Kosei-kai |url=http://www.rfpusa.org/religions/buddhism/rissho-kosei-kai |publisher=Religions for Peace - USA |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110723094839/http://www.rfpusa.org/religions/buddhism/rissho-kosei-kai |archivedate=July 23, 2011 }}</ref>
Risshō Kōsei Kai engages in numerous campaigns to end hunger and poverty, support the environment and work for peace. In the late 1960s, Risshō Kōsei Kai began to advocate the Brighter Society Movement, a public-spirited undertaking through which the local churches of Risshō Kōsei Kai cooperate with local governments, welfare organizations, and volunteer groups throughout Japan.<ref>{{cite web|title=Risshō Kōsei Kai |url=http://www.rfpusa.org/religions/buddhism/rissho-kosei-kai |publisher=Religions for Peace - USA |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110723094839/http://www.rfpusa.org/religions/buddhism/rissho-kosei-kai |archive-date=July 23, 2011 }}</ref>


In 1974, it launched the Donate a Meal Movement in which one skips a meal twice a month and contribute the money saved to the Movement. During the last thirty years, over 11 billion yen has been donated in Japan and thousands more worldwide to the mvement.<ref>{{cite web|title=Donate A Meal Movement|url=http://rk-world.org/peace/meal.aspx|publisher=Rissho Kosei-kai}}</ref>
In 1974, it launched the Donate a Meal Movement, in which one skips a meal twice a month and contribute the money saved to the Movement. During the last thirty years,{{as of when|date=July 2024}} over ¥11{{nbsp}}billion has been donated in Japan and thousands more worldwide to the movement.<ref>{{cite web|title=Donate A Meal Movement|url=http://rk-world.org/peace/meal.aspx|publisher=Risshō Kōsei Kai}}</ref>


There is also the Little Bags of Dreams Campaign started in 1999 in which local churches have the youth members prepare cloth bags full of toys, small gifts and cards with well wishes, for children in war torn nations. Children in Northern Ireland, Palestine and the former Yugoslavia.<ref>{{cite web|title=Little Bags of Dreams Campaign|url=http://rk-world.org/dreams.aspx|publisher=Rissho Kosei-kai}}</ref>
There is also the Little Bags of Dreams Campaign started in 1999, in which local churches have the youth members prepare cloth bags full of toys, small gifts and cards with well wishes, for children in war torn nations, such as Northern Ireland, Palestine and the former Yugoslavia.<ref>{{cite web|title=Little Bags of Dreams Campaign|url=http://rk-world.org/dreams.aspx|publisher=Risshō Kōsei Kai}}</ref>


The [[Niwano Peace Foundation]] was established in 1978 to promote research for world peace and religious, cultural, scientific and educational endeavors.<ref>{{cite web|title=About Us|url=http://www.npf.or.jp/english_top/About_us/about_us.html|publisher=Niwano Peace Foundation}}</ref> Starting in 1983, with the exception of 1988, it has on a yearly basis given out the [[Niwano Peace Prize]] to an individual or organization that contributes to world peace.<ref>{{cite web|title=Niwano Peace Foundation|url=http://rk-world.org/npf.aspx|publisher=Rissho Kosei-kai}}</ref>
The Niwano Peace Foundation was established in 1978 to promote research for world peace and religious, cultural, scientific and educational endeavors.<ref>{{cite web|title=About Us|url=http://www.npf.or.jp/english_top/About_us/about_us.html|publisher=Niwano Peace Foundation|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130825040737/http://www.npf.or.jp/english_top/About_us/about_us.html|archivedate=2013-08-25}}</ref> Starting in 1983, with the exception of 1988, it has on a yearly basis given out the [[Niwano Peace Prize]] to an individual or organization that contributes to world peace.<ref>{{cite web|title=Niwano Peace Foundation|url=http://rk-world.org/npf.aspx|publisher=Risshō Kōsei Kai}}</ref>


===Music===
===Music===
⚫
Risshō Kōsei Kai is known in the field of music for its support of several leading professional music ensembles, most notably the [[Tokyo Kosei Wind Orchestra]]. Its facilities are also used to host the world's largest music competition, the [[All-Japan Band Association]] national band contest.

⚫
Rissho Kosei Kai is world-renowned in the field of music for its generous support of several leading professional music ensembles, most notably the [[Tokyo Kosei Wind Orchestra]]. Its facilities are also used to host the world's largest music competition, the [[All-Japan Band Association]] national band contest.


==References==
==References==
Line 98: Line 119:


==Literature==
==Literature==
* {{cite journal|last1=Anderson |first1=Richard W. |title=Risshō Kōseikai and the Bodhisattva way: Religious ideals, conflict, gender, and status |journal=Japanese Journal of Religious Studies |date=1994 |volume=21 |issue=2-3 |pages=312–337 |url=http://nirc.nanzan-u.ac.jp/nfile/2547 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140815161442/http://nirc.nanzan-u.ac.jp/nfile/2547 |archivedate=August 15, 2014 }}
* {{cite journal|last1=Anderson |first1=Richard W. |title=Risshō Kōseikai and the Bodhisattva way: Religious ideals, conflict, gender, and status |journal=Japanese Journal of Religious Studies |date=1994 |volume=21 |issue=2–3 |pages=312–337 |doi=10.18874/jjrs.21.2-3.1994.311-337 |doi-access=free }}
* Gerlitz, Peter, "Die Rissho Kosei-kai und ihre Assimilation im Westen", in: Michael Pye, Renate Stegerhoff (eds.), Religion in fremder Kultur. Religion als Minderheit in Europa und Asien, Saarbruecken: Dadder 1987, pp.&nbsp;111–122
* Gerlitz, Peter, "Die Rissho Kosei-kai und ihre Assimilation im Westen", in: Michael Pye, Renate Stegerhoff (eds.), Religion in fremder Kultur. Religion als Minderheit in Europa und Asien, Saarbruecken: Dadder 1987, pp.&nbsp;111–122
* Gerlitz, Peter (1975). "Kathartische und therapeutische Elemente in der Seelsorge der Risshō Kosei-kai." Zeitschrift für Religions- und Geistesgeschichte 27 (4), 346-356
* Gerlitz, Peter (1975). "Kathartische und therapeutische Elemente in der Seelsorge der Risshō Kosei-kai." Zeitschrift für Religions- und Geistesgeschichte 27 (4), 346-356
* Inaba, Keishin; in: Clarke, Peter B. (2006). Encyclopedia of new religious movements, New York : Routledge. ISBN 0415267072, pp.&nbsp;539–540
* Inaba, Keishin; in: Clarke, Peter B. (2006). Encyclopedia of new religious movements, New York : Routledge. {{ISBN|0415267072}}, pp.&nbsp;539–540
* Kisala, Robert (1994). Contemporary Karma: Interpretations of Karma in Tenrikyō and Risshō Kōseikai, Japanese Journal of Religious Studies 21 (1), 73-91
* Kisala, Robert (1994). Contemporary Karma: Interpretations of Karma in Tenrikyō and Risshō Kōseikai, Japanese Journal of Religious Studies 21 (1), 73-91
* Kyoden Sutra Readings: Extracts from the Threefold Lotus Sutra, Romanized Japanese and English Translation, Rissho Kosei-kai 1994
* Kyoden Sutra Readings: Extracts from the Threefold Lotus Sutra, Romanized Japanese and English Translation, Risshō Kōsei Kai 1994
* Stewart Guthrie: A Japanese New Religion: Rissho Kosei-Kai in a Mountain Hamlet (Michigan Monograph Series in Japanese Studies), Univ of Michigan 1988. ISBN 0939512335
* Stewart Guthrie: A Japanese New Religion: Rissho Kosei-Kai in a Mountain Hamlet (Michigan Monograph Series in Japanese Studies), Univ of Michigan 1988. {{ISBN|0939512335}}
* {{cite book |title=The Threefold Lotus Sutra |publisher=Kosei Publishing Company |location=[[Tokyo]] |first=Bunno |last=Kato |year=1993 |isbn=4333002087| page= 348}} [https://web.archive.org/web/20131019124924/http://www.rk-world.org/publications/ThreefoldLotusSutra.pdf PDF]
* {{cite book |title=The Threefold Lotus Sutra |publisher=Kosei Publishing Company |location=[[Tokyo]] |first=Bunno |last=Kato |year=1993 |isbn=4333002087| page= 348}} [https://web.archive.org/web/20131019124924/http://www.rk-world.org/publications/ThreefoldLotusSutra.pdf PDF]
* Morioka, Kiyomi (1979). [http://nirc.nanzan-u.ac.jp/nfile/3061 The Institutionalization of a New Religious Movement], Japanese Journal of Religious Studies 6 (1/2), 239-280
* Morioka, Kiyomi (1979). [http://nirc.nanzan-u.ac.jp/nfile/3061 The Institutionalization of a New Religious Movement], Japanese Journal of Religious Studies 6 (1/2), 239-280
* Morioka, Kiyomi (1994). [https://web.archive.org/web/20140815160357/http://nirc.nanzan-u.ac.jp/nfile/2546 Attacks on the New Religions: Risshō Kōseikai and the “Yomiuri Affair], Japanese Journal of Religious Studies 21 (2-3), 281-310
* Morioka, Kiyomi (1994). [https://web.archive.org/web/20140815160357/http://nirc.nanzan-u.ac.jp/nfile/2546 Attacks on the New Religions: Risshō Kōseikai and the “Yomiuri Affair], Japanese Journal of Religious Studies 21 (2-3), 281-310
* {{Citation | last =Niwano | first =Nikkyo | year =1976 | title =Buddhism For Today: A Modern Interpretation of the Threefold Lotus Sutra | place =Tokyo | publisher =Kōsei Publishing Co. | isbn =4333002702}} [https://web.archive.org/web/20131126085404/http://www.rk-world.org/publications/BuddhismforToday.pdf PDF]
* {{Citation | last =Niwano | first =Nikkyō | year =1976 | title =Buddhism For Today: A Modern Interpretation of the Threefold Lotus Sutra | place =Tokyo | publisher =Kōsei Publishing Co. | isbn =4333002702}} [https://web.archive.org/web/20131126085404/http://www.rk-world.org/publications/BuddhismforToday.pdf PDF]
* Stone, Jaquelin (2003). [https://web.archive.org/web/20150104034316/http://www.princeton.edu/~jstone/lotus-sutra-tendai-nichiren.html "Nichiren's Activist Heirs: Soka Gakkai, Rissho Koseikai, Nipponzan Myohoji"], in Christopher Queen et al., "Action Dharma, New Studies in Engaged Buddhism", RoutledgeCurzon, pp.&nbsp;63–94
* Stone, Jaquelin (2003). [https://web.archive.org/web/20150104034316/http://www.princeton.edu/~jstone/lotus-sutra-tendai-nichiren.html "Nichiren's Activist Heirs: Soka Gakkai, Rissho Koseikai, Nipponzan Myohoji"], in Christopher Queen et al., "Action Dharma, New Studies in Engaged Buddhism", RoutledgeCurzon, pp.&nbsp;63–94
* Watanabe, Eimi (1968). Risshō Kōsei-Kai: A Sociological Observation of Its Members, Their Conversion and Their Activities. Contemporary Religions in Japan 9 (1/2), 75-151
* Watanabe, Eimi (1968). Risshō Kōsei-Kai: A Sociological Observation of Its Members, Their Conversion and Their Activities. Contemporary Religions in Japan 9 (1/2), 75-151
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*[http://www.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/makeprfy.pl5?nn20000907b8.htm Nikkyo Niwano obituary]
*[http://www.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/makeprfy.pl5?nn20000907b8.htm Nikkyo Niwano obituary]
*[http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=424 Catholic news site from Asia on Niwano Prize]
*[http://www.asianews.it/view.php?l=en&art=424 Catholic news site from Asia on Niwano Prize]
{{Buddhism topics}}

{{New Religious Movements}}
{{Authority control}}
{{Authority control}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Rissho Kosei Kai}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Rissho Kosei Kai}}
[[Category:Risshō Kōsei Kai| ]]
[[Category:Nichiren Buddhism]]
[[Category:Nichiren Buddhism]]
[[Category:Buddhism in Japan]]
[[Category:Religious organizations established in 1938]]
[[Category:Religious organizations established in 1938]]
[[Category:Religious organizations based in Japan]]
[[Category:Religious organizations based in Japan]]
[[Category:Shinshukyo]]
[[Category:Japanese new religions]]
[[Category:1938 establishments in Japan]]
[[Category:1938 establishments in Japan]]

Latest revision as of 16:40, 25 July 2024

Risshō Kōsei Kai
立正佼成会
FormationMarch 5, 1938; 86 years ago (1938-03-05)
Founder
Founded atTokyo
TypeNew religious movement
Headquarters2-11-1 Wada, Suginami-ku, Tokyo 166-8537, Japan
Key people
Nichiko Niwano

Risshō Kōsei Kai (立正佼成会); until June 1960, 大日本立正交成会 (Dai-Nippon Risshō Kōsei Kai) is a Japanese new religious movement founded in 1938 by Nikkyō Niwano and Myōkō Naganuma. Risshō Kōsei Kai is organized as a lay Buddhist movement, which branched off from the older Reiyūkai, and is primarily focused around the Lotus Sutra and veneration of ancestors.

History

[edit]
Inside of the Great Sacred Hall

Risshō Kōsei Kai was founded on March 5, 1938 by Nikkyō Niwano and Myōkō Naganuma, both former members of the Buddhist sect Reiyūkai.[1] Niwano met Naganuma while he was engaged in missionary work with Reiyūkai and the two became close friends. In 1938, they attended a Reiyūkai meeting in which its president made remarks that lectures and study of the Lotus Sutra were out of date. After hearing that and consulting with each other, they determined that they could not support such ideas and left Reiyūkai.[2] It was then that they decided to form a new organization. The first meeting was held at Niwano's house and some 30 people joined at that time.

Original headquarters

The organization grew quickly, and by 1941, membership had reached 1,000. For a short period between 1949 and 1950, Risshō Kōsei Kai served as a lay auxiliary organisation of Nichiren-shū, but Niwano could not stem what he considered to be the liberal policies of Nichiren-shū.[3] No longer able to meet at Niwano's house, construction on a new headquarters began. However, as membership continued to grow the new headquarters also became too small and work on the Great Sacred Hall, or daiseidō (大聖堂), began in the late 1950s. Myōkō Naganuma, who had been serving as Vice-President, died in September 1957, seven years before the Great Sacred Hall was completed.

It was also then that Risshō Kōsei Kai began to become active in interfaith co-operation. Nikkyō Niwano had a private audience with Pope Paul VI at the Second Vatican Council in 1965 and later attended the 20th World Congress of the IARF in 1969. In 1970 Niwano helped to form the World Conference of Religions for Peace and became a leader of the WCRP.[4]

In 1991, Nikkyō Niwano stepped down as president and his son, Nichiko Niwano, who had been appointed successor and was at that time serving as vice president, took over as president in a special ceremony.[5]

Nichiko Niwano had been designated his successor in 1960. In 1994, Nichiko's eldest daughter, Mitsuyo Niwano, was made Vice President and designated successor.[2] She was given the Buddhist name Kosho by her father and grandfather and is known to members as "Kosho-sama", with -sama being an honorary suffix title in Japanese. Nikkyō Niwano continued to engage in interfaith activities and participate in Risshō Kōsei Kai activities, despite no longer being president. He died on October 4, 1999.

In 2008, Risshō Kōsei Kai International of North America was established because of growth of interest in the group in the United States and Canada. In summer 2009, the US celebrated the 50th anniversary of the group, holding a gathering in Las Vegas, which President Niwano attended.[6]

As of 2010, there are over 240 churches and centers in 20 countries.[7] Membership currently stands at 6.5 million members,[2] with the majority living in Japan.

Structure

[edit]

Risshō Kōsei Kai is run, both religiously and administratively, by a board of directors, with the Chairman being the head. The office of the President is the highest spiritual office, and he is the chief spiritual leader and master of ceremony. The office of the President is a hereditary office held only by the direct descendants of Nikkyō Niwano. Duties include visiting churches and centers, representing Risshō Kōsei Kai at interfaith and cultural events, giving sermons, speeches and greeting guests. He holds much importance and plays an active role in how the church is run. However, it is the board of directors that holds the final say on all matters.

Characteristics

[edit]

Even though being regarded as a descendant of Reiyūkai and Nichiren Buddhism it has developed distinct features in terms of doctrine and objects of worship to the extent, that some regard Risshō Kōsei Kai as a separate Buddhist denomination outside of Nichiren Buddhism, thus it has a number of features in common with other Nichiren sects:[8]

  • Devotion to the Lotus Sutra as the highest teaching in Buddhism.
  • Belief in the Buddha-nature of all beings.
  • Recitation of Namu Myōhō Renge Kyō as a Buddhist practice.
  • Evangelism of Buddhist teachings, and in particular the Lotus Sutra.
  • Veneration of Nichiren as teacher and bodhisattva. He is frequently referred to as daibosatsu (大菩薩, "Great Bodhisattva") in Risshō Kōsei Kai liturgy.

Object of Devotion

[edit]

Risshō Kōsei Kai venerates the Eternal Buddha, the central figure of the Lotus Sutra, instead of a gohonzon.[9] The central temple, the Great Sacred Hall, features a statue of the Eternal Buddha that is 6.09 meters tall and 3.03 meters wide. The imagery of the Eternal Buddha used in the Great Sacred Hall, and all temple altars, is of a standing Buddha enveloped in a fiery halo, within are four, smaller Bodhisattvas:

  • Bodhisattva Eminent Conduct
  • Bodhisattva Boundless Conduct
  • Bodhisattva Pure Conduct
  • Bodhisattva Steadfast Conduct

Further above the Buddha's head is a small image of the stupa of Prabhutaratna, featured in Chapter 11 of the Lotus Sutra.

Additionally, members enshrine a Sōkaimyō (総戒名, "Family Posthumous Name"), which is a kind of certificate and object of veneration that represents the collective ancestors of that member. Because it is not feasible to provide each ancestor with a posthumous Buddhist name, the ancestors as a whole are venerated through the Sokaimyo.[9]

Basic Teachings

[edit]

Risshō Kōsei Kai places a strong emphasis on studying the Lotus Sutra and the Buddha's teachings. They affirm the basic teachings of Buddhism, such as the Four Noble Truths, the Noble Eightfold Path and the Three Seals of the Law, among their core teachings.[10][11] The Threefold Lotus Sutra is the group's chief scripture. It is viewed as containing the highest teachings of Gautama Buddha.

The Buddha and the Dharma

[edit]

Adherents believe that Gautama Buddha was the first human to be awakened to the Dharma, which is believed to be an invisible entity that sustains, guides and improves the lives of all living things.[12] They refer to this life force as the Eternal Buddha, teaching that it is omnipresent and universal.

Daily Practice

[edit]

Members begin and end each day by chanting parts of the Lotus Sutra and saying various prayers and vows before family altars in their home.[13] The center of the altar is the Focus of Devotion, either a scroll with an image of the Eternal Buddha Shakyamuni on it or a small statue of the Eternal Buddha. Members leave offerings of rice, water and tea before the image.

Hōza or Dharma Circle

[edit]

Another practice frequently found in Risshō Kōsei Kai services and meetings is the hōza (法座, "Dharma Circle") which is a kind of informal, group session led by a trained leader, in which members sit in a circle, discuss their problems or their shortcomings, and other members listen and provide advice. The discussions usually will explore how Buddhism and insight can be applied to help the person with the problem, and encourage a sense of trust and community between members.[9]

Holidays

[edit]

Risshō Kōsei Kai observes various Buddhist and Japanese holidays, including Parinirvana Day, Buddha's Birthday, Bodhi Day, and Higan. They also have special gatherings to mark important events in the organizations history, such as memorial services for the Founder and Co-Founder and the Anniversary of the Founding of Risshō Kōsei Kai.[14]

Interfaith and peace activities

[edit]

Since its founding, Risshō Kōsei Kai has sought to cooperate with other religions and work with the United Nations and a variety of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs).[15]

Interfaith co-operation

[edit]

Nikkyō Niwano was one of the founders of the World Conference of Religions for Peace. Since the founding of the WCRP in 1970, Risshō Kōsei Kai has been actively involved with the organization [16] and currently President Nichiko Niwano is a president of the WCRP.[5]

In 1981 Nikkyō Niwano was elected as the President of the International Association for Religious Freedom and in 1984 hosted the IARF at the Great Sacred Hall.[17]

Nichiko Niwano is currently the President of the Japanese branch of the WRCP and Chairman of Shinshuren. The organization is also involved with the Asian Conference of Religions for Peace[18] and maintains close ties to the Unitarian Universalist Association. The interfaith relationship with the Unitarian-Universalist Association is the closest one the latter American liberal organization has ever achieved.[19]

UNICEF and United Nations

[edit]

Risshō Kōsei Kai has supported UNICEF since 1979 and members regularly participate in campaign activities related to UNICEF. It has also supported and participated in a number of UN programs, including the second Special Session of the United Nations General Assembly Devoted to Disarmament held in 1982.[20]

Humanitarian projects

[edit]

Risshō Kōsei Kai engages in numerous campaigns to end hunger and poverty, support the environment and work for peace. In the late 1960s, Risshō Kōsei Kai began to advocate the Brighter Society Movement, a public-spirited undertaking through which the local churches of Risshō Kōsei Kai cooperate with local governments, welfare organizations, and volunteer groups throughout Japan.[21]

In 1974, it launched the Donate a Meal Movement, in which one skips a meal twice a month and contribute the money saved to the Movement. During the last thirty years,[as of?] over ¥11 billion has been donated in Japan and thousands more worldwide to the movement.[22]

There is also the Little Bags of Dreams Campaign started in 1999, in which local churches have the youth members prepare cloth bags full of toys, small gifts and cards with well wishes, for children in war torn nations, such as Northern Ireland, Palestine and the former Yugoslavia.[23]

The Niwano Peace Foundation was established in 1978 to promote research for world peace and religious, cultural, scientific and educational endeavors.[24] Starting in 1983, with the exception of 1988, it has on a yearly basis given out the Niwano Peace Prize to an individual or organization that contributes to world peace.[25]

Music

[edit]

Risshō Kōsei Kai is known in the field of music for its support of several leading professional music ensembles, most notably the Tokyo Kosei Wind Orchestra. Its facilities are also used to host the world's largest music competition, the All-Japan Band Association national band contest.

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Tamura, Yoshiro (2001). Japanese Buddhism: A Cultural History. Kosei Publishing. p. 203. ISBN 9784333016846.
  2. ^ a b c "History of Rissho Kosei-kai". Risshō Kōsei Kai Hawaii. Archived from the original on 2012-09-15.
  3. ^ Montgomery, Daniel (1991). Fire in the Lotus, The Dynamic Religion of Nichiren, London: Mandala, ISBN 1852740914, p. 237
  4. ^ "Timeline of Rissho Kosei-kai". Risshō Kōsei Kai.
  5. ^ a b "President Nichiko Niwano". Risshō Kōsei Kai.
  6. ^ "Risshō Kōsei Kai Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Dissemination in U.S." Risshō Kōsei Kai.
  7. ^ "Locations". Risshō Kōsei Kai.
  8. ^ Montgomery, Daniel (1991). Fire in the Lotus: The Dynamic Religion of Nichiren, London: Mandala, ISBN 1852740914, p. 238
  9. ^ a b c Kotaro Suzuki, ed. (2007). Introduction to Rissho Kosei-Kai For Our New Members. Rissho Kosei Kai International. pp. 3, 15 and 30.
  10. ^ "Teachings". Risshō Kōsei Kai.
  11. ^ "Rissho Kosei Kai". Division of Religion and Philosophy University of Cumbria.
  12. ^ "The Focus of Devotion". Risshō Kōsei Kai.
  13. ^ "Sutra Recitation". Risshō Kōsei Kai.
  14. ^ "Annual Memorial Days and Special Ceremonies and Events". Risshō Kōsei Kai.
  15. ^ "Cooperation with Religious and Secular Organizations". Risshō Kōsei Kai.
  16. ^ "World Conference of Religions for Peace". Risshō Kōsei Kai.
  17. ^ "International Association for Religious Freedom". Risshō Kōsei Kai.
  18. ^ "Asian Conference of Religions for Peace". Risshō Kōsei Kai.
  19. ^ Meyer, Joffre D. Interfaith Soul Mates for 40 Years. The Unitarian-Universalist Association (UUA) and the Risshō Kōsei Kai (RKK)
  20. ^ "UNICEF and United Nations". Risshō Kōsei Kai.
  21. ^ "Risshō Kōsei Kai". Religions for Peace - USA. Archived from the original on July 23, 2011.
  22. ^ "Donate A Meal Movement". Risshō Kōsei Kai.
  23. ^ "Little Bags of Dreams Campaign". Risshō Kōsei Kai.
  24. ^ "About Us". Niwano Peace Foundation. Archived from the original on 2013-08-25.
  25. ^ "Niwano Peace Foundation". Risshō Kōsei Kai.

Literature

[edit]
  • Anderson, Richard W. (1994). "Risshō Kōseikai and the Bodhisattva way: Religious ideals, conflict, gender, and status". Japanese Journal of Religious Studies. 21 (2–3): 312–337. doi:10.18874/jjrs.21.2-3.1994.311-337.
  • Gerlitz, Peter, "Die Rissho Kosei-kai und ihre Assimilation im Westen", in: Michael Pye, Renate Stegerhoff (eds.), Religion in fremder Kultur. Religion als Minderheit in Europa und Asien, Saarbruecken: Dadder 1987, pp. 111–122
  • Gerlitz, Peter (1975). "Kathartische und therapeutische Elemente in der Seelsorge der Risshō Kosei-kai." Zeitschrift für Religions- und Geistesgeschichte 27 (4), 346-356
  • Inaba, Keishin; in: Clarke, Peter B. (2006). Encyclopedia of new religious movements, New York : Routledge. ISBN 0415267072, pp. 539–540
  • Kisala, Robert (1994). Contemporary Karma: Interpretations of Karma in Tenrikyō and Risshō Kōseikai, Japanese Journal of Religious Studies 21 (1), 73-91
  • Kyoden Sutra Readings: Extracts from the Threefold Lotus Sutra, Romanized Japanese and English Translation, Risshō Kōsei Kai 1994
  • Stewart Guthrie: A Japanese New Religion: Rissho Kosei-Kai in a Mountain Hamlet (Michigan Monograph Series in Japanese Studies), Univ of Michigan 1988. ISBN 0939512335
  • Kato, Bunno (1993). The Threefold Lotus Sutra. Tokyo: Kosei Publishing Company. p. 348. ISBN 4333002087. PDF
  • Morioka, Kiyomi (1979). The Institutionalization of a New Religious Movement, Japanese Journal of Religious Studies 6 (1/2), 239-280
  • Morioka, Kiyomi (1994). Attacks on the New Religions: Risshō Kōseikai and the “Yomiuri Affair, Japanese Journal of Religious Studies 21 (2-3), 281-310
  • Niwano, Nikkyō (1976), Buddhism For Today: A Modern Interpretation of the Threefold Lotus Sutra, Tokyo: Kōsei Publishing Co., ISBN 4333002702 PDF
  • Stone, Jaquelin (2003). "Nichiren's Activist Heirs: Soka Gakkai, Rissho Koseikai, Nipponzan Myohoji", in Christopher Queen et al., "Action Dharma, New Studies in Engaged Buddhism", RoutledgeCurzon, pp. 63–94
  • Watanabe, Eimi (1968). Risshō Kōsei-Kai: A Sociological Observation of Its Members, Their Conversion and Their Activities. Contemporary Religions in Japan 9 (1/2), 75-151
[edit]
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