Journal Title
McGeorge Law Review
Volume
30
Issue
2
First Page
271
Document Type
Article
Publication Information
1999
Abstract
The fundamental aspects of Nichiren Daishonin's teachings merit modern attention. The Daishonin was a tireless mentor for his disciples, and his call for compassion, critique, courage, and wisdom are essential for law students and teachers alike. A remarkable man, the Daishonin's perceptions ought to inform the way professors teach and advise their students, and encourage others to reflect on their own sources of spiritual sustenance and examine the contributions they can make toward deepening the relevance, meaning, and joy of legal education.
The Daishonin emphasized the primacy of The Lotus Sutra, which declares that all living beings inherently possess the Buddha nature and its accompanying virtues of wisdom, courage, compassion, and life force. Regardless of gender, social class, or previous life condition, all have an equal opportunity to attain enlightenment. The steps toward enlightenment may be small, but it is their very slightness that enriches one’s understanding of life's beauty. Lawyers, students, and those privileged to teach can do no better than to be the challenging teacher and nurturing friend who realizes that her enlightenment depends on heartfelt efforts to enlighten others. By following the Daishonin's path, both mentors and disciples will be searchers who do not begrudge their lives.
Recommended Citation
John W. Teeter, Jr., The Daishonin’s Path: Applying Nichiren’s Buddhist Principles to American Legal Education, 30 McGeorge L. Rev. 271 (1999).