Chanting

The Practice of the Odaimoku

The Practice of the Odaimoku

Nichiren Buddhism’s primary practice of chanting in praise and acceptance of a Buddhist scripture may sound odd, so I want to say more about this. To begin with, the Odaimoku is not just the name of a scripture or sutra but is meant to indicate the supreme teaching or Dharma of the Buddha which is what the sutra is about. In fact, in China and Japan long books have been written explaining how each of the words used in the title embrace all the many profound teachings and practices taught by Shakyamuni Buddha. To chant in praise of the title is a way to keep in mind and devote ourselves to the most comprehensive and profound teaching of Buddhism.