In Nichiren Shu Buddhism, the gohonzon is a calligraphic scroll that can guide Buddhist practitioners toward enlightenment.
How to Practice Chanting
It’s an expression of oneness — with the Buddha, with the sangha, with the cosmos itself. Mark Unno teaches you how to let go into the flow of chanting.
Modern Mantras
Each Friday, we share three topical longreads in our Weekend Reader newsletter. This week, LionsRoar.com’s Sam Littlefair looks at the modern mantras that help us work through difficulties. Sign up here to receive the Weekend Reader in your inbox. Do you have a favorite saying that helps you work through difficulties? Maybe a memorable quote or an […]
What is Nichiren Shu?
Along with Soka Gakkai and Nichiren Shoshu, Nichiren Shu is one of the largest sects of the Nichiren school of Buddhism. A Nichiren Shu priest explains the tradition’s roots, practices, and basic teachings.
What is Jodo Shinshu?
“The path is easy”, it is said of Shin Buddhism, “but few are those who take it.” The late Taitetsu Unno explores the history of Jodo Shinshu and its core practice of reciting the Name of Amida Buddha.
The Power of Sound
Shinso Ito, the head of the Shinnyo-en school of Buddhism, explains the role of bells and chanting in Shinnyo practice.
Acer announces “smart prayer beads” to digitally count mantra recitations
Electronic malas will track mantra recitations in a phone app, tallying “merit” that can be shared on social media.
Stuck at the Airport?
Sylvia Boorstein arrives at the airport to find her flight is delayed. What better place to work with one’s mind?
Buddhist researchers find that religious chanting reduces stress
Buddhist researchers from the University of Hong Kong have published findings that suggest religious chanting can reduce stress.
Why do people chant at Buddhist centers?
I’ve been invited to a Buddhist center. I want to go, but I worry that the chanting aspect of it might weird me out.