Nikko, Japanese priest, founder of Nichiren Shoshu Buddhism (b. 1246)

Who Was Nikkō Shōnin, the Successor to Nichiren?

Nikkō Shōnin (日興上人), born on March 8, 1246, and passing on February 7, 1333, was a pivotal figure in the history of Nichiren Buddhism. Known by his Buddhist name Hawaki-bō Byakuren Ajari Nikkō (伯耆房白蓮阿闍梨日興), he distinguished himself as one of the six most senior and trusted disciples of Nichiren, the revered founder of the Buddhist tradition that bears his name. Nikkō Shōnin served as the Chief Priest of Kuon-ji temple, located on Mount Minobu in Japan, a sacred site where Nichiren spent his later years and delivered many significant teachings.

Nikkō's Enduring Legacy and Succession Claims

After Nichiren's passing, the interpretation and transmission of his teachings led to various developments. Several prominent Nichiren sects in Japan trace their foundational lineage directly back to Nikkō Shōnin. The most prominent among these is Nichiren Shōshū, which unequivocally regards him as the sole legitimate successor to Nichiren's spiritual legacy. Additionally, certain lineages within the broader Nichiren Shū denomination also acknowledge his significant contributions to the early establishment of the faith.

The Meticulous Archivist and Doctrinal Upholder

Nikkō Shōnin is highly esteemed for his diligent and systematic efforts in preserving the integrity of Nichiren's teachings. During his lifetime, he meticulously kept records and established highly organized religious practices, which proved indispensable. These efforts are directly responsible for the survival of a vast amount of original historical and doctrinal records, including many of Nichiren's personal writings, known as Gosho, and important administrative documents from the early community. Without Nikkō's scrupulous dedication, much of the foundational understanding of Nichiren Buddhism might have been lost to history.

A core aspect of Nikkō's unwavering conviction was his singular upholding of the doctrine that Nichiren was the True and Eternal Buddha of the Third Age of Buddhism (Mappō). This profound belief positions Nichiren not merely as a historical teacher but as the ultimate embodiment of the Dharma for the current age, a unique revelation for the benefit of all humankind. Because of his steadfast commitment to this central doctrine, schools that stem directly from Nikkō's lineage, such as Nichiren Shōshū and its lay organization, the Soka Gakkai, unequivocally consider him the legitimate successor to Nichiren's complete ministry and spiritual legacy. They believe he alone fully grasped and transmitted the deepest essence of Nichiren's teachings.

Establishment of Taisekiji and the Dai Gohonzon

A landmark achievement in Nikkō Shōnin's life was the establishment of the Head Temple Taisekiji in Fujinomiya, located at the foot of Mount Fuji. Founded in 1290, Taisekiji serves as the central administrative and spiritual hub for Nichiren Shōshū. It was at Taisekiji that Nikkō Shōnin enshrined the Dai Gohonzon, the supreme object of worship for Nichiren Shōshū and Soka Gakkai adherents. The Dai Gohonzon is revered as the mandala inscribed by Nichiren Daishonin himself on October 12, 1279, representing the fundamental law of the universe and serving as the focal point for their practice.

Succession and Final Resting Place

Demonstrating his foresight and dedication to the perpetuation of the lineage, Nikkō Shōnin designated Nichimoku Shonin as his successor in 1332, just four months before his own passing. This crucial act ensured a clear and unbroken line of transmission for the teachings he had so carefully preserved and propagated.

Nikkō Shōnin's grave remains today in Kitayama Honmonji, nestled in Omosu, Suruga Province (modern-day Shizuoka Prefecture). He resided in this area for thirty-six years, dedicating himself to the establishment of a Buddhist seminary. This institution played a vital role in training future priests and solidifying the doctrinal framework of the school, which at the time was often broadly affiliated under the umbrella of Hokke shū (法華宗), meaning "Lotus Sutra School," a common designation for various schools based on the Lotus Sutra, including Nichiren Buddhism.

Commemoration of Nikkō Shōnin

The profound impact of Nikkō Shōnin is still commemorated annually through the Koshi-E memorial feast, marking his death anniversary. This significant event is observed on two consecutive days: February 6, known as O-tai-ya within Nichiren Shōshū, which is the eve of the memorial, and February 7, when the main Gosho-to-e ceremony takes place, involving solemn prayers and a reaffirmation of the lineage's principles.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nikkō Shōnin

Who was Nikkō Shōnin in relation to Nichiren?

Nikkō Shōnin was one of the six most senior and trusted disciples of Nichiren, the founder of Nichiren Buddhism. He was specifically regarded by his lineage as the legitimate successor to Nichiren's complete ministry and teachings.

What was Nikkō Shōnin's main contribution to Nichiren Buddhism?

His main contributions include meticulously preserving Nichiren's writings and records, establishing organized religious practices, and singularly upholding the doctrine that Nichiren was the True and Eternal Buddha of the Latter Day of the Law. He also founded Taisekiji, the head temple of Nichiren Shōshū, and enshrined the Dai Gohonzon.

Which Buddhist sects claim Nikkō Shōnin as their founder?

The most prominent sect claiming direct lineage from Nikkō Shōnin is Nichiren Shōshū. Some lineages within the broader Nichiren Shū also acknowledge his foundational role.

What is the significance of Taisekiji and the Dai Gohonzon?

Taisekiji, founded by Nikkō Shōnin in 1290, is the head temple of Nichiren Shōshū. The Dai Gohonzon, enshrined there, is revered as the supreme object of worship for Nichiren Shōshū and Soka Gakkai members, believed to be inscribed by Nichiren himself.

How is Nikkō Shōnin commemorated today?

His death anniversary is commemorated annually through the Koshi-E memorial feast on February 6 (O-tai-ya) and February 7 (Gosho-to-e ceremony), primarily by Nichiren Shōshū adherents.