May–June 2004, Volume 31
Religion in Crisis
Essays
Grasping That Formless Entity We Call the Heart
by Masahiro Mori
We labor under the delusion that what we see is the truth, causing us to have problems and suffer. To realize how incorrectly we are perceiving things is the first step toward being able to see into our own hearts.
Religion in Crisis or “in the Making”?
by Hiromasa Mase
What religion can provide is a moral foundation. Being aware of pressing problems and situations, such as the morality of environmental issues, the morality of the right to life, and the very morality of religion itself, should not religion take some action?
A Buddhist Education in a European Country: Austria as a Case Model
by Myoshin-Friedrich Fenzl
Austria has discovered that five principles are necessary in order to improve Buddhist education in non-Buddhist countries–but the most important task should be the training of competent Dharma teachers.
The Stories of the Lotus Sutra
The Great Stupa of Abundant Treasures Buddha
by Gene Reeves
This story makes free use of unusual images and events to advance a unified worldview indicating that the Buddha is somehow represented throughout the universe.
Conference Report
Asian Muslims Gather in Bangkok to Promote International Interfaith Dialogue
by M. Abdus Sabur
Reflections
Using the Right Skillful Means
by Nikkyo Niwano
Once-in-a-Lifetime Meetings
by Nichiko Niwano
Every year brings new encounters, and new encounters, we hope, will bring a year of hope. To make this a reality it is crucial that we treasure the “once-in-a-lifetime meetings” that each day brings us. Following is a translation of a recent interview with Rev. Nichiko Niwano that originally appeared in Rissho Kosei-kai’s Japanese periodical Yakushin.
Buddhist Living
How the Buddhist Experience Changed My Life
by Mike Murry
An American member of Rissho Kosei-kai addressed the anniversary celebration of Shakyamuni’s attaining of supreme enlightenment held at the Los Angeles branch on December 7, 2003. He described the many changes in his life for the better brought about by his introduction to Buddhism.
Gotama Buddha (66)
The Last Words of the Tathagata
by Hajime Nakamura
According to the Buddha’s final utterance, the purpose of Buddhism is twofold: to realize the impermanence of all things and to devote oneself to religious training.
