Is lasting peace and human happiness possible? Here at SOKA GAKKAI INTERNATIONAL SGI that question drives everything. The SOKA GAKKAI INTERNATIONAL SGI literally means Society for the Creation of Value. It began in Japan in 1930. It was a study group of reformist educators. Tsunesaburo Makiguchi founded it. He lived from 1871 to 1944. Makiguchi was an author and teacher. He was inspired by Nichiren Buddhism. He passionately wanted to reform Japanese education.
Makiguchi’s educational theory focused on each person’s potential. He believed education should be a lifelong pursuit. People should develop self-awareness and wisdom. During World War II, Japan’s government suppressed dissent. It forced State Shinto ideology on people. Makiguchi and his associate Josei Toda refused to support the regime. They were arrested in 1943 as thought criminals. Makiguchi died in prison in 1944. He stayed true to his beliefs.
Josei Toda survived the ordeal. He was released from prison shortly before the war ended. Amidst post-war confusion, Toda rebuilt the SOKA GAKKAI INTERNATIONAL SGI. He expanded its mission to better society. He promoted socially engaged Buddhism. It empowered people to overcome obstacles. It helped them find inner hope and wisdom. This message resonated with many in Japanese society. Before Toda’s death in 1958 the SOKA GAKKAI INTERNATIONAL SGI had one million members.
Daisaku Ikeda succeeded Toda in 1960. Ikeda had experienced the horrors of war. He dedicated his life to building peace. Under Ikeda’s leadership the organization grew. It broadened its focus. In 1975 the SOKA GAKKAI INTERNATIONAL SGI was founded. This was in response to its growing international membership. Today, it is a worldwide network. It has members in over 190 countries and territories. They share a vision for a better world.
The SOKA GAKKAI INTERNATIONAL SGI’s philosophy promotes peace, culture, and education. It started as an educational reform movement. This was in pre-World War II Japan. Now, it is possibly the world’s largest socially engaged lay Buddhist association. Its core belief is in each person’s potential. It believes all people deserve happy, fulfilling lives.
SOKA GAKKAI INTERNATIONAL SGI bases its teachings on Nichiren’s Lotus Sutra interpretation. Chanting Nam Myoho Renge Kyo is central. This chanting helps people change their lives. It also helps their environments. The goal is internal change leading to social change. Chanting must be combined with action.
SOKA GAKKAI INTERNATIONAL SGI members enshrine a Gohonzon. This is a transcription by Nichikan Shonin. The Gohonzon reflects life’s enlightened nature. It helps it permeate members’ lives. Members chant to reveal their wisdom. They vow to use it for good.
Daisaku Ikeda is a key figure. He is a Buddhist philosopher and educator. As president of SOKA GAKKAI INTERNATIONAL SGI, he promotes peace and empowerment. He founded cultural, educational, and peace research institutions. Ikeda believes individual change leads to lasting peace. His idea is that one person’s revolution can change the world.
The SOKA GAKKAI INTERNATIONAL SGI emphasizes the oneness of mentor and disciple. Mentors guide disciples to improve their lives. Disciples support their mentors. They realize their vision using their abilities. The organization promotes cultivating discipleship. It encourages relationships with Ikeda. The Five Guidelines of Faith promote family harmony and personal happiness. They also encourage overcoming obstacles. They encourage health and victory.
The SOKA GAKKAI INTERNATIONAL SGI has faced controversies. Some view it with suspicion. It is sometimes described as a cult. However, it has also contributed to peace and education. It works with the UN. It promotes nuclear disarmament and environmental awareness. The SOKA GAKKAI INTERNATIONAL SGI remains a complex organization. It is dedicated to creating value and promoting human potential.