The importance of the individual
in SGI Buddhism

“I firmly believe that a great human revolution in just a single individual can help achieve a change in the destiny of a nation and enable a change in all humankind”. P. Ikeda’s famous statement on this possibility of change is based on the truth of interconnectedness - and on Buddhism’s peaceful principles in the way an individual can affect others.

Rather than blaming others or trying to “change the system” - the key concept in Human Revolution is to take responsibility for one’s life as an individual and become the master of one’s own destiny, helping others in the process.

According to Buddhism, each individual is a unique manifestation of the ultimate truth. Because each of us manifests this truth in the form of our particular, individual character, each of us is a precious and indeed indispensable aspect of the living cosmos

Revealing the Greater Self

The term “Human Revolution”was used by second Soka Gakkai President Josei Toda to describe a fundamental process of inner transformation. The aim of this process is to break through the shackles of our “lesser self,” bound by the limitations of self-concern and the ego. Through the practice of growth toward a “greater self”, we can manifest our Buddhanature in daily life, and become capable of caring and taking action for the sake of others.

The process of transforming our lives at the very core requires determination and endurance. It involves identifying and challenging those things which inhibit the full expression of our positive potentials. Nichiren Buddhism is based on belief in a pure, positive and enlightened condition of life which exists equally within all people. This life state of “Buddhahood” is characterised by the qualities of compassion, wisdom and courage which enable us to create something of value from any situation.