The word philosophy (chi: zhe xue) in Chinese character gives an inkling to the meaning of the word in its ‘zhe’ word, and that is separating the ‘kou’ (eng: mouth) from the word ‘zhe’ (eng: bent or fold). In other words, philosophy means mouth or words which could be bent or it could mean speeches or verbal communication that can be metamorphose.

Speaking of the origin, the wisdom of philosophy arises from the daily undertakings humanity does, it originated from questions people asked through exerting themselves in their undertakings as well as contemplation on matters of the world. Speaking from the literal significance of it; philosophy is a knowledge which makes people wise and clever, it is being passionate for wisdom and seeking wisdom. Speaking of the function of philosophy, philosophy enables us to have correct views on nature, society, life changes and progress. It guides people to correctly be aware of the world and change the world.

Philosophy is the systematic and theoretical view of the world. It is the epitome and conclusion of nature, society and intellectual knowledge. Mastering philosophy is comparable to having a sun burning inside ones heart. The future will be an era where philosophy will be used to light up and brighten the dark path of life.

There is no stopping to the rapid and continuous change of the era as well as the society, things may change in an instant. Following the development and advancement of science and technology, humanity and society are progressing towards great changes day by day, informative and complexity. In the rapid changes of this difficult times, people nowadays especially the youths are constantly pursuing new information and going after fashionable trends where slowly they became ignorant and obsessed with it that they no longer could discern between real from the fake, truth or deceit, good or bad. The world in this state at present is concluded as ‘an era lacking philosophy’ as well as ‘the era of barrenness of the mind’ where people became shallow in their hindsight, their spirit is poor, living an aimless existence. This is the area in which Mr. Ikeda worries the most.

Mr. Ikeda once pointed out that an era or society without philosophy is indeed a proof of an unfortunate era. It is because someone without philosophy wont be able to understand the correct values of life. They are just blindly living a vast and bare fleeting life without purpose. For that reason, laziness become apparent and decadence happen. They don’t know the value of life and only indulge in pleasure. On the other hand, people who understand deep philosophical theory are those who could truly understand wonders and meaning of life. Deep philosophy gradually shines in brilliance within the depth of one’s soul. They are those who advances forward unwaveringly with clear direction and goals.

In this sense, it can be said that philosophy exists to eradicate people’s sufferings and create happiness. The question is: Where can we find a truly great philosophy?

As long as we devote ourselves to study Buddhism and Nichiren Daishonin’s teachings, we will learn about the thinking, philosophy and truth of the past to the present times. There was a section in Nichiren Daishonin’s gosho The Object of Devotion for Observing the Mind which states: ‘识法华经者可得世法’. Buddhism contains consistent view towards the world, outlook on life, correct social values and universal outlook on different periods of time as well as other knowledge and experiences. When we understand this point, we will not employ other strategies besides Buddhism to solve our problem. As long as we chant to Gohonzon, all obstacles can be solved.

Buddhism enables us to truly employ its philosophy in our lives and face our problem with wisdom. It isn’t just opinions or point of view but it’s a philosophy which connects to real life. Even if you suffer from a malignant illness, Buddhism teaches us that the illness is the cause to enable us to live a more positive life rather than the cause for pessimism. Buddhism view illnesses as a rare opportunity to transform ones karma. It is also a really powerful ‘Philosophy of Hope.’

We should strengthen our challenging spirit and study Gosho and seek great philosophy out of it etching all small details in our life. When it is accumulated, we can then establish ‘the pillar of philosophy’ in our hearts. A person with ‘pillar’ in their heart wont be wavered no matter how unstable changes may occur.  Even though the society is filled with lots of temptations, he will remain unmoving. It is alright even though you may not be able understand or memorize the Gosho but as long as you persist and read bit by bit, your life will be caressed by the fresh gusts of wind which strengthens your faith.

Labels: e. Words of mentor