April 28, 1253 - Significance in Buddhism

Nichiren Daishonin at age 12 declared that he wanted to become “the wisest person in all Japan”. Even at such tender age he sought wisdom to answer fundamental questions of life. He thus decided at 16 to become a priest and devote himself entirely to Buddhist study. Carefully studying all the scriptures available to him, he delved into essential doctrines of both Hinayana and Mahayana Buddhism.

In the course of his study he arrived at some key conclusions – that the Lotus Sutra is supreme among all sutras. That the Mystic Law to which he had awakened is Nam Myo Ho Renge Kyo, the core teaching of Lotus Sutra.

Nichiren Daishonin realized his mission to propagate the Mystic Law and decided on the means to accomplish this. At noon on April 28th, 1253 he chanted Nam Myo Ho Renge Kyo, proclaiming it as the one and only correct teaching capable of saving the people of the latter day of the law. He thus established a form of practice that would open the way to Buddhahood for all people--regardless of class or educational background.

Thus by declaring Nam Myo Ho Renge Kyo on April 28th, 1253 the Daishonin made it possible for all humankind to practice the Law and attain Buddhahood. He faced endless persecution for propagating the law and establishing correct teaching.

April 28th is a day to pay tribute to the Original Buddha of the latter day of the law and chant in gratitude.