"But I have discarded prejudice, whether against the opinions of others or in favor of my own, and set aside the views propounded by scholars and teachers. Instead, relying solely on the passages of the sutras themselves, I have come to understand that the Lotus Sutra deserves to occupy first place."

Nichiren explains his method of determining truth in Buddhism. Rather than being swayed by popular opinion, scholarly reputation, or personal bias, he bases his conclusions entirely on what the Buddhist scriptures themselves actually say. This represents a revolutionary approach in his time, when most people followed teachings based on tradition or the authority of famous teachers.

"There are three reasons why the Thus Come One Shakyamuni, rather than any of the other Buddhas, has a relationship with all the living beings of this sahā world. First of all, he is the World-Honored One, the sovereign of all the living beings of this sahā world... The second reason is that the Thus Come One Shakyamuni is the father and mother of all living beings in this sahā world... The third reason is that Shakyamuni is the original teacher of all living beings in this sahā world."

Nichiren explains why Shakyamuni Buddha should be revered above all other Buddhas by people in this world. Using the metaphor of the three virtues - sovereign (ruler), parent, and teacher - he shows that Shakyamuni has a unique karmic connection with all people on Earth. Just as we naturally respect our own country's leader, our own parents, and our own teachers before those of others, we should honor the Buddha who specifically came to save the people of this world.

"Even though one may resort to harsh words, if such words help the person to whom they are addressed, then they are worthy to be regarded as truthful words and gentle words. Similarly, though one may use gentle words, if they harm the person to whom they are addressed, they are in fact deceptive words, harsh words."

This passage reveals Nichiren's philosophy about speaking truthfully even when it's difficult. He argues that truly compassionate communication is measured not by how pleasant it sounds, but by whether it genuinely helps the other person. Sometimes the kindest thing you can do is tell someone a hard truth that will ultimately benefit them, even if it initially upsets them.

"The debt of gratitude we owe him [Shakyamuni] is deeper than the ocean, weightier than the earth, vaster than the sky. Though we were to pluck out our two eyes and place them before him as an offering until there were more eyes there than stars in the sky... we could never repay a fraction of the debt we owe to this Buddha."

Using vivid, almost overwhelming imagery, Nichiren expresses the immeasurable gratitude we should feel toward Shakyamuni Buddha. This isn't about guilt or obligation, but about recognizing the profound gift of the Buddha's teachings that can free us from suffering. The extreme metaphors help us understand that our very ability to become enlightened and happy is due to the Buddha's compassion.