Nam Myoho Renge Kyo

Question 1

7) Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is the heart and essence of the Buddha’s teaching, which is expressed in wise and compassionate actions to lead all people to enlightenment. In this phrase, what does nam mean? (See The Basics, p. 19)

Answer 1

Nam, or namu, is the phonetic rendering in Chinese characters of the Sanskrit word namas, meaning bow or reverence. This term was also translated using the Chinese characters meaning to dedicate one’s life (kimyo). To dedicate one’s life, in this sense, means to devote oneself body and mind to the Law and strive to practice and embody it with one’s entire being.

Question 2

8) The Record of the Orally Transmitted Teachings states: “Great joy [is what] one experiences when one understands for the first time that one’s mind from the very beginning has been _____________. Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is the greatest of all joys.” Please fill in the blank. (See The Basics, p. 21)

Answer 2

a Buddha