Refuting Ryōkan and the Others
Background
Written To
Kōnichi, a lay nun whose son Yashirō had died in 1274. She lived in Awa Province near Seichō-ji temple where Nichiren studied as a youth, and had sent him a robe during his exile to Sado.
When
Written after 1274 at Minobu, following Nichiren's return from his second exile on Sado Island. References to being 'twice sent into exile' help date this letter.
Why It Was Written
Nichiren wrote this to console Kōnichi after her son's death, while also addressing the broader religious corruption he saw in Japan. Her son, a samurai, had died in some kind of confrontation, and she was likely worried about his spiritual destiny.
Significance
This writing demonstrates Nichiren's compassionate pastoral care while establishing his doctrinal criticism of other Buddhist schools. It shows how he connected personal consolation with his broader mission to reform Buddhism in Japan.
Key Passages
"In view of all this, even if the late Yashirō had been guilty of some major offense, it could certainly not surpass the offenses committed by Devadatta. In comparison to those, it must have been a very minor offense. And because he had faith in the Lotus Sutra, there can be no doubt that 'then not a one will fail to attain Buddhahood.'"
Nichiren is comforting a grieving mother by explaining that even if her son made serious mistakes in life, his faith in the Lotus Sutra guarantees his enlightenment. He compares any wrongdoing to Devadatta's legendary crimes against the Buddha, showing that even the worst offenses pale in comparison to the power of correct faith to transform karma.
"When I offered up my original prayer, I vowed that I would approach the various schools of Buddhism without prejudice or partiality regarding any particular one, but would judge them on the basis of proofs to be found in the Buddha's own words and the light of reason. I would rely not upon the writings of the scholars, the translators, or the teachers of doctrine, but solely upon the sutra texts themselves."
Nichiren describes his commitment to finding truth through direct study of Buddhist scriptures rather than accepting established authority. This shows his methodology of returning to original sources and thinking for himself, even when it put him in conflict with powerful religious institutions.
"Though they might gain an understanding of all the various sutras, pay homage to the Buddhas of the ten directions, build temples and pagodas throughout the whole country, and show compassion toward all living beings, still... all their great good deeds will be changed into great evil, and the seven blessings will give way to the seven disasters."
Nichiren argues that without correct teaching as the foundation, even seemingly good religious activities become harmful. He uses vivid metaphors about salt water and golden mountains to show how a fundamental error in understanding corrupts everything else, no matter how well-intentioned.
"I did not do so, however, but continued in a vigorous manner to champion the Lotus Sutra, determined that, if the worst should come, I would sacrifice my life for that cause."
Despite facing exile, attacks, and the death of his protector, Nichiren expresses his unwavering commitment to spreading what he believes is the correct teaching. This shows his willingness to endure personal suffering for the sake of helping others find true Buddhism.
How This Applies to Your Life Today
This teaching speaks directly to anyone struggling with loss, guilt, or the aftermath of mistakes. Like Kōnichi worrying about her son, we often torment ourselves wondering if our loved ones who have died were 'good enough' or if our own past actions have permanently damaged our lives. Nichiren's message is that sincere faith and correct practice can transform any situation—that our essential Buddha nature is stronger than any mistake or tragedy.
The letter also addresses a very modern dilemma: how to discern truth in a world full of competing authorities and popular opinions. Nichiren's approach—studying original sources, thinking independently, and being willing to stand alone when necessary—offers a model for navigating everything from career decisions to political choices. His willingness to endure criticism for speaking what he believes is true resonates with anyone who has had to take an unpopular stand at work, in their community, or even within their own family. The key is ensuring that our foundation is solid, because as Nichiren shows, everything else flows from that basic choice about what we build our lives upon.
Read the Full Writing
This is a simplified explanation. For the complete text, visit the Nichiren Library.
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