On Attaining Buddhahood in This Lifetime

What constitutes a meaningful life? What is true happiness? Nichiren Buddhism, based on the Lotus Sutra, is a teaching of hope that provides answers to these and other important questions for modern life.



Ranked among the most important works in Mahayana Buddhism, Nichiren’s 13th century writings were revolutionary. In “On Attaining Buddhahood in This Lifetime,” Nichiren turned prevailing Buddhist thought on its head. Attaining Buddhahood, or enlightenment, does not require embarking on some inconceivably long journey toward becoming some resplendent godlike Buddha. Rather attaining Buddhahood means accomplishing a transformation in the depths of one’s being and revealing one’s ultimate potential within. And he dedicated his life—braving all manner of persecution—to giving people a practical means for doing so.



Daisaku Ikeda’s simple and straightforward commentary brings alive this important writing for the modern world. Thoughtful people of all faiths will resonate with his compassionate insights on the universal teaching of happiness that is Nichiren Buddhism.