The Lotus Lane

Daisaku Ikeda on Action

Guidance on the supreme importance of action — Buddhism is not theory or philosophy, but a practice of daily action for oneself and others.

15 quotes

“Action speaks louder than words. Buddhism is about action, not about theory or debate.”

— Daisaku Ikeda, The New Human Revolution, Vol. 1

“A hundred theories without a single action are worthless. Even one small step taken with determination changes everything.”

— Daisaku Ikeda, For Today and Tomorrow

“Now is the time to act. Not tomorrow, not next week, not when conditions are perfect. Now.”

— Daisaku Ikeda, Discussions on Youth

“The difference between those who achieve their goals and those who do not is simple: action. The successful take action. The unsuccessful talk about it.”

— Daisaku Ikeda, Faith Into Action

“Buddhism exists in society, not in a temple or a monastery. It comes alive when we take action in the real world.”

— Daisaku Ikeda, The New Human Revolution, Vol. 4

“Do not wait for someone else to take the first step. Be the one who takes action. Leaders act. They do not wait.”

— Daisaku Ikeda, For Today and Tomorrow

“The greatest prayer is accompanied by the greatest action. Chanting without acting is like sailing without a rudder.”

— Daisaku Ikeda, The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace

“It is better to try and fail than to never try at all. The person who acts is always better off than the person who merely theorizes.”

— Daisaku Ikeda, Discussions on Youth

“Small daily actions compound into great achievements over time. Never underestimate the power of consistent, daily effort.”

— Daisaku Ikeda, For Today and Tomorrow

“When you are unsure what to do, take action. Movement creates clarity. Sitting still creates confusion.”

— Daisaku Ikeda, Youth and the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

“The Bodhisattva does not sit in meditation while others suffer. The Bodhisattva plunges into the midst of suffering and takes action.”

— Daisaku Ikeda, The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace

“Life is a battle and the greatest joy is to overcome. The more one sweats in training, the less one bleeds in war.”

— Daisaku Ikeda, The New Human Revolution, Vol. 7

“The universe responds to action, not to intention. Pray with all your heart, and then act with all your might.”

— Daisaku Ikeda, For Today and Tomorrow

“There is no substitute for hard work. Talent without effort is wasted. Effort without talent can still achieve miracles.”

— Daisaku Ikeda, Discussions on Youth

“Every great journey begins with a single step. Take that step today.”

— Daisaku Ikeda, For Today and Tomorrow

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