Nichiren Daishonin taught that the power of the Mystic Law relies on faith rather than form. Many practitioners face hostility in their own homes. Family members may oppose the practice. The noise of television or arguments may drown out one's voice. In such moments, the practitioner might feel trapped or cowardly. However, the Daishonin explained that obstacles arise naturally as one advances. He identified these forces as the Three Obstacles and Four Devils. Their function is to disrupt faith and break the practitioner's peace.
The video "Can you chant Daimoku in your head?" addresses this crucial struggle. It introduces Oku Daimoku or silent chanting. This is the strategy of chanting Namu-myoho-renge-kyo within one's mind. Some worry that a silent prayer is weak. They fear the universe cannot hear them without sound. The Daishonin stated that it is the heart that is important. The volume of the voice does not determine the strength of the prayer. The sincerity of the heart determines it.
"Muster your faith, and pray to this Gohonzon. Then what is there that cannot be achieved? There can be no doubt that the sutra passages 'There is no doubt that [those who hear this sutra] will become Buddhas' and 'The Sun and Moon, the Jewel of the Heavens' are true.
It is the heart that is important. No matter how earnestly Nichiren prays for you, if you lack faith, it will be like trying to set fire to wet tinder. Spur yourself to muster the power of faith. Regard your survival as wondrous. Employ the strategy of the Lotus Sutra before any other."
A practitioner must remain calm like a rock. Reacting with anger to family opposition only feeds the negative cycle. It lowers one's life condition. The Daishonin advised his followers to employ the Strategy of the Lotus Sutra before any other. This means placing faith first. When one chants silently with profound focus, the vibration of life changes. This inner sound reaches the Ten Directions. It transforms the environment from the inside out.
Do not doubt the power of silent determination. The Daishonin assured his followers that winter always turns to spring. No ice can resist the sun. No hostility can resist a heart burning with the vow for Kosen-rufu. Use this silent strategy to protect your practice. Let your inner resolve be the roar that dispels the darkness.
Namu myoho renge kyo.
