Nichiren
Thirteenth-century Japan is suffering from a series of natural disasters, disease, corruption amongst the ruling class, and religious leaders who only care about money and power. Enter Nichiren, a different breed of Buddhist monk. Nichiren only wants to help those who are suffering and worries that the current dominant Buddhist practice, which teaches that happiness will be forthcoming in death, doesn’t incentivize anyone to work to improve life in the here-and-now. As he grows in influence, current leaders come to see him as a threat and move to take action against him. Philosophical teachings pair with plenty of action in this drama-filled retelling of actual historical events. With plenty of samurais, assassins, conspiracies, and humor, this is an entertaining way to learn about Nichiren and the Lotus Sutra.
Reviewed by
Allyce Amidon
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