Chapter 1: The Inescapable Reality of Death

Death is a certainty that awaits us all, yet the mere thought of it often induces fear and anxiety, both for ourselves and our loved ones. However, it is an inevitable part of existence that arrives unexpectedly.

A poignant tale recounts an inconsolable mother who sought the help of Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) after her young child passed away. She implored him to bring her child back to life. In his compassion, the Buddha attempted to convey the concept of impermanence, but his words did not resonate with her. Eventually, he asked her to find a mustard seed from a family that had never known death. Filled with hope, she searched tirelessly, only to return empty-handed but enlightened to the reality of suffering and loss.

The teachings of Gautama Buddha revolve around the four unavoidable sufferings of life: birth, aging, illness, and death. His later teachings culminated in the Lotus Sutra, which encourages us to awaken our inherent Buddhahood and approach life's hardships with wisdom and compassion. Unfortunately, over time, his core message became diluted, leading to various interpretations of Buddhism across different cultures.

Fortunately, in the late 13th century, Nichiren Daishonin, a revered Japanese sage, revived the essence of the Lotus Sutra. Like Gautama, he viewed death as a necessary and natural phase of existence, one that should be accepted with grace.

Nichiren Buddhism teaches that our life essence is eternal, and our current existence is merely a temporary manifestation. Our movement from one physical form to another is influenced by our karmic tendencies—actions shaped by our past and present lives.

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Chapter 2: The Role of Karma in Our Lives

Life is viewed as a performance, where we serve as the director, producer, and actor, shaped by our past karma. The duration of our existence and the timing of our exit are determined not by a divine entity, but by our karmic influences. Thus, if one enters life burdened with negative karma, they may experience significant challenges and suffering.

Conversely, those with positive karma may enjoy a more harmonious existence, navigating life with ease until their current role concludes. This raises the question: should we resign ourselves to our fate and await death without striving for improvement? The answer is an emphatic no.

If our karma shapes our lives, then our thoughts, words, and actions are crucial in crafting our current and future experiences. Nichiren Buddhism provides us with the tools to lead fulfilling lives, regardless of past karma. By alleviating negative karma, we can enhance our current and future lives, thereby achieving a more positive existence.

Is Karma Changeable?

Yes, Nichiren Buddhism categorizes karma into two types: mutable and immutable. Mutable karma can be transformed through Buddhist practice—affecting aspects like health, finances, relationships, and personal growth. Many followers have successfully shifted their negative circumstances into positive outcomes through dedicated practice.

Immutable karma, on the other hand, includes aspects such as the family we are born into, our physical attributes, and ultimately, death itself. These elements are unchangeable but can be approached with wisdom and grace. This explains why some individuals face hardships from birth, such as disabilities or illnesses, resulting from past karmic actions.

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Chapter 3: Embracing the Buddhist Perspective on Life and Death

In Buddhism, life is seen as a continuous cycle where death and rebirth are merely different forms of existence. The phase of death is perceived not as an end, but as a necessary period of rest and renewal, akin to a refreshing sleep that prepares us for what lies ahead.

Grieving the loss of loved ones is a natural response; Buddhism does not advocate for suppressing this pain. Instead, it teaches that overcoming grief can lead to a deeper appreciation of life’s value and encourage compassion for the suffering of others.

As articulated by Daisaku Ikeda, “In death, our life essence flows like a current in the ocean's depths, not confined to one spot. It resonates with the universe's rhythm of birth and death.” By viewing life and death through the lens of the Mystic Law, we can relinquish the fear of death. The act of dying becomes a harmonious return to the universe, fostering compassion and enlightenment.

In summary, Buddhism offers a profound understanding of death that encourages acceptance, transformation, and compassion. By recognizing death as a natural part of existence, individuals can discover freedom and deeper significance in their lives.