Nichiren
니치렌
BuddhistKamakura Period (1222-1282)
"Prophet of the Lotus Sutra"
✦ Personality Traits
✦ About
Nichiren (1222-1282) was a Japanese Buddhist monk who founded one of the most distinctive and influential schools of Japanese Buddhism. He taught that the Lotus Sutra contained the ultimate truth and that chanting "Nam-myoho-renge-kyo" could bring enlightenment.
Nichiren was famous for his fearless criticism of other Buddhist schools and his warnings that Japan would face disaster if it didn't embrace the true dharma. He was exiled twice and nearly executed, but claimed that his persecutions proved the truth of his teachings.
His approach was revolutionary—he insisted that Buddhism must engage with society and government, not withdraw from the world. The schools that descended from him remain influential today, and his emphasis on the Lotus Sutra shaped Japanese religious culture.
✦ Famous Story
When Nichiren was about to be executed at Tatsunokuchi, a brilliant light appeared in the sky, terrifying the executioners. They could not carry out the sentence, and Nichiren was exiled instead—he took this as proof of the Lotus Sutra's protection.
✦ If You Match
You possess the prophetic fire of Nichiren. There is a devoted, fierce quality to your presence—the look of one who speaks truth regardless of consequences.
