112 Letter to Misawa

112 Letter to Misawa

Author: The Ignorant Trio July 24, 2023 Duration: 16:53

Written in the fourth year of Kenji (1278), this letter is also referred to as Before and after Sado because it makes a clear distinction between the teachings the Daishonin expounded before his exile to Sado Island and those during and after his Sado exile. He compares the former to the pre-Lotus Sutra teachings, which Shakyamuni preached as an expedient to lead his disciples to the Lotus Sutra. Concerning his true teaching, the Daishonin says, “I secretly conveyed my teaching to my disciples from the province of Sado.” Quoting the Buddha’s words, he refers to that teaching simply as “this great Law.” More precisely, this teaching was explained in two of his most important writings, The Opening of the Eyes and The Object of Devotion for Observing the Mind.


The recipient of this letter is generally believed to be Misawa Kojirō, a lay follower of the Daishonin who was the lord of Misawa in Fuji District of Suruga Province, though some consider it given to Kojirō’s grandson, Masahiro.


Misawa appears to have kept his distance from the Daishonin for fear of antagonizing and arousing the suspicions of the Kamakura shogunate. But the Daishonin expresses understanding of his position as the lord of a manor responsible for a fief, family, and retainers, and kindly encourages him.


https://www.nichirenlibrary.org/en/wnd-1/Content/112


Finding quiet moments for study and reflection can feel nearly impossible in the rush of daily life. Gosho Reading (Nichiren Buddhism) offers a simple, accessible way to engage with the writings of Nichiren Daishonin, turning mundane tasks into opportunities for spiritual nourishment. Hosted by The Ignorant Trio-three women who approach the material with genuine curiosity rather than scholarly authority-each episode features a clear, thoughtful reading of passages from the Gosho. You might hear them while commuting, cooking, or folding laundry, allowing the teachings to settle into the rhythm of your day. The hosts, occasionally joined by guests, read the letters and treatises with a focus on clarity and presence, creating a shared space for listening rather than academic analysis. This podcast doesn’t aim to lecture or interpret heavily; instead, it provides the text itself, spoken aloud, so listeners can absorb the wisdom directly and find their own connections. It’s a companion for those seeking to integrate practice into a busy schedule, making the profound teachings of Nichiren Buddhism available in a practical, auditory format. Join The Ignorant Trio for these readings and discover how listening can become its own form of daily practice.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 57

Gosho Reading (Nichiren Buddhism)
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