Product Description
Illustrated with black-and-white photographs of the contributors. "Soka Gakkai International (SGI)-USA is an American Buddhist association that promotes world peace and individual happiness based on the teachings of the Nichiren school of Mahayana Buddhism. Our members reflect a cross section of our diverse American society representing a broad range of ethnic and social backgrounds." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (21)

SGI History
This series of books is an outstanding history of the reorganization of Soka Gakkai International after World War II in Japan.It provides a great insight into the rebuilding of Japan, and the struggle many endured to rebuild the SGI and their lives.Recommend to all SGI members.

A Great Surprise
As a practitioner of Nichiren Buddhism and a relatively new member of the Soka Gakkai International, this book was a great surprise to me. I knew that the book was a history of how the Soka Gakkai was reinvigorated by Josei Toda after WWII. But I had no idea that the struggle was so great. I am learning every day more about Buddhism by reading how the characters in the books use their faith to overcome their own struggles (karma) and become enlightened people. Maybe the expert on snake oil does not practice Buddhism so the story does not make much sense. I look forward to reading "The New Human Revolution."

Historical Novelization of Popular Buddhist Lay Organization
As a novel in which the protagonist, Josei Toda, discovers a deeper meaning to Buddhism while imprisoned by a militarist government during WWII may not connect with every reader.I read this novel approx. 30 years ago as I was learning about Buddhist practice and philosophy. It provided an excellent medium through which I learned the application of Buddhism in a practical setting, rather than simply as abstract concepts.I have continued my Buddhist practice and this novel was a key to keeping focused on the primary goal of enlightenment, a.k.a Human Revolution. Why another reviewer dismisses this as "snake oil" is odd. This Buddhism is a simple practice which requires no belief to undertake.An interested party, as I was, may begin without spending a penny, as I did. It is certainly not focused on trying people to spend large sums on ever continuing seminars and such.This school of Buddhism does alarm some people, as the novel illustrates, because other "mass movements" of the time were facist and not humanist. Furthermore, any new movement is seen as a threat to established institiutions. The Soka Gakkai, which this novel explores, is now recognized by a plethora of peace organizations as a beneficent organization.

My Basic Thoughts on The New Human Revolution
The concept of human revolution is based on the Buddhism of NichirenDaishonin, that enables people to elevate their life conditions to thehighest through their buddhist practice, thus revolutionize them fromwithin.

But, the true greatness of the Daishonin's Buddhism lies inmaking the practice possible and available to anybody, and through givingeach member of the world the opportunity to continuously change him/herselffor the better, the world peace can be achieved.The idea itself isrevolutionary, I believe, that it goes totally the opposite of what hasbeen done historically to achieve peace, which is to make the change at thetop to force the changes downward to people (in many cases with lots ofsacrificing and suffering).

The SGI, whose president is the author of TheHuman Revolution and The New Human Revolution series, practices theDaishonin's Buddhism; therefore, its ideal is to make each individual happyand to promote peace throughout the world.The New Human Revolution can beread in many ways, but I would recommend to pay a little more attention,when you read it, to the fact that the Buddhist ideal is put into practiceand actually happening.

As a SGI member, I am proud to be a part of thisendeavor and recommend anybody to check it out.

From East To West: The Story of SGI In America
This book (series) chronicles the history of the Nichiren Buddhist laity, Soka Gakkai,from 1960 to the present. It's a collection of the personal struggles and victories of the pioneers of Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism inAmerica. No matter how many times I read it, it never fails to inspire mewith hope and courage. The SGI motto "No matter what, never giveup!" echos from every page.

As a foreigner living in a foreign land,I can understand from my own life how the Japanese war brides whointroduced Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism to the USA felt. President Ikedagave them four tasks to perform and they were:

1.) learn to speak English2.) learn to drive a car 3.) buy a car 4.) become US citizens.

Impossibledreams for these women. By taking US citizenship they'd lose their Japanesecitizenship and could never go home. English was very difficult to learn.Buying a car for a newly wed military couple, often with young children,was also seemingly out of reach.

Though their deep faith they made theyimpossible possible. Please do read the entire series. It will become oneof your favorites as it has become mine. ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (3)

Love that Buddha
This is an excellent introduction into the Buddhist philosophy of the Japanese priest, Nichiren, and how it applies to your everyday life.

I first found the website that the book was based upon through the recommendation of a friend.Having been a practicing member of SGI-USA for 15 years and owning a dog-eared copy of "Buddha in Daily Life: Introduction to the Buddhism of Nichiren Daishonin" I was already very familiar with the topics of the book, however I found that Michael Lisagor did a great job in communicating Nichiren's philosophy and it help provide me many new insights into my own religion.

This is a great first book for learning about Budhdism.It's also a great book for those already familiar with the subject.

You Can Have Fun While Being a Buddhist
The image many people have is of monks with shaved heads wearing long robes. Or maybe Richard Gere looking very serious. Those are other forms of Buddhism. The Buddhism that Mike Lisagor practices is Nichiren Buddhism, as popularized by Daisaku Ikeda and the Buddhist lay organization, Soka Gakkai International (SGI). The SGI is the leading and largest Buddhist denomination, with members in over 190 countries. As Lisagor reveals through a collection of humorous anecdotes from his own life, this is a religious practice for day-to-day application and not something for hermits, professional monks or scholars. Read this book for lightening up your perspective on whatever problems you may have and laugh along with Mike as he overcomes one situation after another and offers keen insights on family relationships.

A practical family as well as life problems guide
'Romancing the Buddha' is linked to daily practical family as well life problems, based on the writer's own amazing experience. It is easy to understand and an introduction to Nichiren Buddhism. Along with my experience, I absolutely agree that by chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo we can definitely change anything. There is one of the quotes that I picked up from reading this book, which I really like.

"Unless we live fully right now, not sometime in the future, true fulfillment in life will forever elude us. Rather than putting things off till the future, we should find meaning in life, thinking and doing what is most important right now, right where we are - setting our heart aflame and igniting our lives. Otherwise, we cannot lead an inspired existence."
--Daisaku Ikeda-- ... Read more

Product Description
Excepts of the works of the Soka Gakki International President indexed by topic in an easy to use format. ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (45)

Life changing book
The Buddha in Your Mirror is a beautifully written book outlying not only a philosophy, but a practical means to imporve your life.Buddhism is no longer for shaved headed monks who retreat into the mountains, but a practice which allows every single person to become happy while maintaining their normal daily life.Reading this book is a perfect start to changing one's life for the better.

excellent book for those new to buddhism
This book is an excellent primer for those who are curious about Buddhism
It reminds us that we all have the ability to reach buddhahood. It also talks about the importance of the mantra "Nam Myoho Renge Kyo" which volumes have written about.I love this book and invite all beginners to buddhist thought to check it out. May I also encourage you to try -The Lotus Sutra- and -The Dhammapada- two major Buddhist works. Be happy.

A Very Easy but Excellent Introduction to Buddhism
If you know next to nothing at all about Buddhism but want to learn how and why it might be useful to you, this is the book you should start with. It is NOT rocket science but it hits all the key points you need to know and is readily understandable by almost anyone. Above all, it makes it fundamentally clear that you are in the driver's seat when it comes to your own life. Stand up for yourself, take control of your destiny and read this book.

End stage Buddhism
The Buddha in Your Mirror: Practical Buddhism and the Search for Self This review is from my mother.She is 94, blind, and mostly in a wheelchair after a fall.One day, about a month ago, she announced that she and her husband are becoming buddhists.She read this book twice through Talking Books, the service for the blind (there appears to be no commercial audiobook), and now chants a daily mantra, and feels it has clarified her entire life.She recommended this highly.My sister and her husband are reading it, and when I get it, I will read it too.My mother is very worldly and has traveled and studied her whole life.She studied Asian art, and I am surprised she never studied Buddhism before.It certainly resonated with her.

Recommended
This is the first book I have read on Buddhism. The book is very informative. There are many, many quotes from SGI President Daisaku Ikeda. If I did not know there were other forms of Nichiren Buddhism I would have thought that Soka Gakkai was it.

This book is easy to digest and is just slightly over 200 pages. I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in getting a general view of Nichiren Buddhism. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Interesting Analysis and Information about Buddhism in US
My best friend is a Buddhist who chants with the Soka Gakkai (SGI-USA) and she gave me this book to learn, from an unbiased scholar's viewpoint, what the Soka Gakkai in America is all about.I am very glad I read it, andhave since read many other wonderful books by Daisaku Ikeda as well as aBritish book called "The Buddha in Daily Life," which is myfavorite book on the Soka Gakkai and Nichiren Buddhism.(I think that bookis only available at amazon.co.uk for the moment.)In any case, Irecommend this book "Soka Gakkai in America" by Jane Hurst as aninteresting analysis of history and information about the Soka Gakkaireligious movement in the United States.The author's insights into the"ethos" of this relatively new religious movement are wellconsidered, very interesting and well presented.

SGI Disappoints in America
This book looks at the past and present of Soka Gakkai, its interpretation of BuddhismCits current philosophies and its growth in America. In looking at what attracts Americans to this lay-buddhist organization, the authordescribes how faith in Soka Gakkaifs particular brand of proselytizingBuddhism leads to supposed self-development, happiness, peace andprosperity. Nothing is written of how SGI-USA has helped to garner popularsupport for American atrocities across the globe by purposely failing toenlighten SGI-USA members of those atrocities.

In dealing with therelationship between capitalism and Nichiren Buddhism, the author goesfurther awry. Nothing is mentioned of Soka Gakkaifs lucrative businessrelationship with Japanfs largest arms manufacturer while proselytizingSoka Gakkaifs peaceful agenda.

Nothing in this book informs the readerof the dark side of Soka Gakkai: the initiation of infants into theirreligion, Soka Gakkai's business relationships with Japan's largest armsmanufacturer and Soka Gakkai president Ikeda's tacit consent of the humanrights abuses of the world leaders he so often meets.

If one is lookingfor an obective and discerning view of Soka Gakkai, its philosophies andpractices, one won't find it in this book.

Interesting.
Being a SGI member I approched Mrs Hurst book with some resevation. A lot of ink has been spilled about our organzation and beliefs,however the vast majority of the writers had little to say.I am happy to report that this book actully looks beyond selective reporting and moves into thinking about the framwork of the belifs and cluture of our organzation, both past and present.The best part of the book is the interpatation of the interelationship between capitalism and Nichiren Buddhism. A well thought out book. ... Read more

Book Description
This introduction to Nichiren Buddhism explores the philosophical intricacies of life and reveals the wonder inherent in the phases of birth, aging, and death. Core concepts of Nichiren Buddhism, such as the 10 worlds and the nine consciousnesses, illustrate the profundity of human existence. This book provides Buddhists with the tools they need to fully appreciate the connectedness of all beings and to revolutionize their spiritual lives based on this insight. Also explored are how suffering can be transformed to contribute to personal fulfillment and the well-being of others and how modern scientific research accords with ancient Buddhist views. Ultimately, this is both a work of popular philosophy and a book of compelling, compassionate inspiration for Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike that fosters a greater understanding of Nichiren Buddhism. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Read It, You Will Find Answers to Questions You May Not Even Have Thought of Yet.
You can't go wrong reading this book if you really want to understand both the philosophical underpinnings and the functional or operational principles of applying the practice of Buddhism to the key issues of life, death--and what comes in between. The reality is, that life and death are just two sides of the same coin or two phases of existence. But that makes it all sound very dry; it isn't. Yes, there are some profound and difficult concepts discussed, but Daisaku Ikeda has a way of making them accessible to those with at least a modicum of curiosity--or in Buddhist parlance, "seeking spirit."

Birth & Death
Many people start to study Buddhism because they are interested in the ultimate mystery of life and death and have not gained a sufficient insight from western based philosophies. Unfortunately, much of the Buddhist literature we read focuses on how to perceive or deal with our heads and not on how to address the ultimate issues such has how to change our lives, why we are here, what is the happiest way to live. This book tears right into these issues and is thus remarkable in it's scope and relevance to a thoroughly disenchanted culture.

Learn about Death first
Nichiren Daishonin writes learn about Death first then all other matters.
This is a great book by Daisaku Ikeda about Birth and Death, great learning about a subject that has always been a mystery.

Mysteries of birth and Death in laymen's terms
This is a beautiful book about Buddhism, easy to read and understand for everyone.

Unlocking Mysteries
This is an excellent book explaining Buddhism's view of life and death.The subject is deep, but the presentation is down to earth and easy to understand.This book should be essential reading for anyone interested in Buddhism.For those who are not, reading it may expand your horizons and open up new ways of thinking about life. ... Read more

Book Description
From a Japanese word meaning "to create value," this book presents a fresh spiritual perspective to question the ultimate purpose of education. Mixing American pragmatism with Buddhist philosophy, the goal of Soka education is the lifelong happiness of the learner. Rather than offering practical classroom techniques, this book speaks to the emotional heart of both the teacher and student. With input from philosophers and activists from several cultures, it advances the conviction that the true purpose of education is to create a peaceful world and to develop the individual character of each student in order to achieve that goal. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Value education. A book on Education's restoration of Value.
Soka means Value. This book teaches the great importance of human interaction and relationship between the mentors and mentees of today's academic institution. Soka Gakkai President Ikeda strongly encourages the reader to understand that the value of Education as for others to learn and benefit from that which they learn. He expounds the one truth of Students to respect their teachers for their inputs just as teachers respect their students for their efforts. Mr. Ikeda distinctly explains the necessary steps and practice to keeping Value in education, as he is inspired by his mentor Josei Today, and the first president of Soka Kyoiku Gakkai, Mr. Makiguchi who was a humanistic educator and a strong advocate for peace. Purchase this book today and find great value in teaching others in all aspects of life, not just in schools but in all institutions of society. Go Soka!

Illuminating Insights for School Reform
Daisaku Ikeda is a prolific author who presents a Buddhist perspective on a vast array of topics.His message is that people have boundless creative potential for bringing about positive change.His works are always uplifting.Soka Education is no exception.It offers clear guidelines for educational reform.The focus is not on pedagogical strategies, but on fundamental issues such as the purpose of education, the qualities of great educators, causes and solutions of teen violence, and the need to foster global citizens.Where teachers, administrators, politicians, and parents apply the wisdom of this book, schools will become more humane places and young people will blossom.

The Japanese term "Soka" means creative, contributive living;Soka Education is education that empowers students, enabling them to lead happy, fulfilled lives.Ikeda objects to using schools to serve nationalistic or corporate ends.Japan did so throughout the past century, and is now suffering the consequences.To counter that trend, Ikeda has founded "Soka schools" in Japan (kindergarten through university) and elsewhere that are characterized by joyful, enthusiastic students; wise, affectionate teachers; and a prevailing belief that every student has a unique and important role to play in the world.I have visited many of those campuses; no experience has ever given me greater cause for optimism about the future.

The current thrust in the USA is to gear instruction toward raising standardized test scores.This is a step away from placing students' interests and needs first.In Soka Education, Ikeda calls for "a society that serves the essential needs of education."In contrast to this notion, American society, with politicians leading the fray, heaps blame and abuse on teachers.What's worse, the schools most in need of support-inner-city schools, for example-come under the harshest attacks.To counter the dark, conservative mood that holds sway in the USA and other countries, hopeful, practical prescriptions are needed.Soka Education provides these in abundance.

To take one example, Ikeda discusses the problem of juvenile delinquency.While the phenomenon results from an erosion of human bonds characteristic of our age, he says, educators can connect, life to life, with troubled youngsters and lead them on a path toward creative, rather than destructive, living:

"If these bonds are severed, the human spirit can only roam aimlessly in the pitch darkness of solitude. . . .It is the responsibility of adults to patiently restore the ability to communicate by listening to the voices of isolated children calling out for help from the darkness.There is a famous episode involving Socrates in which his influence on youth is described as being like an electric ray that stings those who touch it.He explains that he can electrify others because he is electrified himself.Similarly, teachers must constantly be creative if they are to evoke creativity in their students.This is an essential quality for educators.Most important is the teacher's attitude.Human interaction is the key" (pp. 74-75).

A sample of chapter titles: Reviving Education, Serving the Essential Needs of Education, Education Toward Global Citizenship, An Outspoken Advocate of Educational Reform, Humanity in Education, The Fight to Live a Creative Life. ... Read more

Product Description
"The Age of 'Soft Power' & Inner-motivated Philosophy" is a lecture that was delivered at The Harvard University John F. Kennedy School of Government on September 26, 1991."Toward a World Without War: Ghandism and the Modern World " is a lecture delivered on February 11, 1992 at the National Museum in New Delhi . ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

I thought this book was great.
I thought this book was great.All of the books I've read by Dr. Ikeda have been very inspirational, thought-provoking and educational.

Very Interesting
I found this book very interesting, thought-provoking and inspiring.

a manifesto for political impotence
In "A Lasting Peace" author Daisaku Ikeda, president of Soka Gakkai International, proffers that spiritual enlightenment rather than direct political action is the key to world of peace.

Rather thanproviding eloquent insights into constructing a credible and perdurablepeace, Mr. Ikeda has written a manifesto for political impotence andalienation and a recipe for the blind-faith adherance to the dictates ofincorporeal hierarchs.

"A Lasting Peace" and its phlegmaticattempts at elucidating a vision of a harmonious future without war is adisappointing failure when compared to other luminary works such asEmmanuel Kant's "Perpetual Peace" or Thomas Pangle's"Justice Among Nations : On the Moral Basis of Power and Peace."

Profound Wisdom and Outstanding Insight
I recommend this book to anyone concerned with issues of peace, both international and domestic, down to the level of their own communities.I also recommend this book to anyone intersted in learning about thepractical applications of ancient yet timeless Buddhist thought in modern,everyday life.

In this book, "A Lasting Peace," Mr. Ikeda yetagain provides us with outstanding insights and his trademark wisdom,addressing many of the most important issues facing humanity today.

Thisbook, like most of Mr. Ikeda's books, reminds us that if we are ever tobanish from this world the superficial conflicts that escalate to all-outwars, we must first regard the fundamental cause of such conflicts. Thisfundamental cause is nothing more than people's diluted sense of identity -people clinging to superficial differences in culture, race, and soon.

As another reviewer wrote, the essential message of this book is toremind the reader that humanity must first recognize its true identity asone human family - then and only then will we begin to walk the path of atrue and lasting peace.

I liked it
I personally thought this book was great.It's the first book I've read by Daisaku Ikeda and I was very impressed by his insights and wisdom.I suppose Buddhist readers would appreciate it even more than I did. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Truly inspirational
As a student of life and Buddhism, Daisaku Ikeda never fails to inspire me to live the best way possible.His writings are a source of inspiration and hope for mankind.

Speeches at Colleges
As a college instructor, I can really appreciate the philosophy of education and living that Mr. Ikeda shares with his listeners/readers.

Profoundly inspiring
The speeches contained in this volume have been a source of great inspiration and education for me. Dr. Ikedas efforts to reveal the commonalities between Buddhism and modern thought pay off in a big way .The problems faced by modern society require an approach that is flexiblein its thinking, yet uncompromising in its insistence on equality. Hoorayfor humanism !

Science and religion can co-exist
These are some of the most thought provoking essays and great food for thought if you are out to make a difference with your life. Excellent reading!

The most wonderful man in the world.
I am actually 14 but my internet connection could only get me here.Daisaku Ikeda is the most wonderful man in the world.He changed my life.I am happy even though I used to get depressed. I owe my life to him.I amhis disciple. ... Read more