Sakyamuni Buddha stresses in numerous sutras that all living beings possess the Buddha-nature, one’s true nature. Accordingly, everyone has the potential to attain Buddhahood or enlightenment. All human beings, regardless of apparent differences in faith, difference in nationality, race or color, are Buddhas in essence. To achieve enlightenment is then to live according to one’s true nature.

The Buddha states in the Lotus Sutra: “This is my domain and all the living beings in this world are my children.” “I shall guide the living to enter the unsurpassed Way and to quickly become Buddha.”

Stimulated by such compassion, Nichiren Shonin dedicated his life to cultivating the Buddha-nature in all beings. The key to this salvation he believed was to be found in the Lotus Sutra.