Secular Independent Prayer 

Secular prayers for those no longer associated with a branch of Lotus Buddhism or have not had a relationship with one to begin with. 

For a philosophical explanation of the underlying teaching, see An Ultimate from Immanence.  See also a link to a Microsoft Word version of the following prayer for reconfiguration in a prayer book: Secular Independent Prayer.doc. 

Introduction: For a ritual, instead of chanting Nam Myōhō Renge Kyō (in veneration of the Mystic Law of the Lotus Sutra), try Sezoku Hoke Kyō, romaji for "a secular Lotus Sutra." Nam, which means "veneration of," is inferred by the way the expression is invoked. To supplement chanting, the traditional recitation from the Lotus Sutra's second and sixteenth chapters is always an option.

Of note, a formal ritual is not essential. Instead, recalling "The conditional emergence of benevolence as gifted by time, process, and potential" on occasion is sufficient. 

If a ritual is performed, consider including the following prayer:

With faith's highest virtue sourced in immanence, the ability to shape our lives in its likeness depends on sincere and thoughtful effort alone. This ceremony supports the effort.

Our sacred image represents the conditional emergence of benevolence as gifted by time, process, and potential. Thus endowed, it projects an inherent purity free of supernatural inference that can surpass and better both civil and religious authority, while encouraging the pursuit of a more peaceful world.

To provide a grounded option for divine inspiration, the Lotus Sutra's revelation of an omniscient ever-presence was reinterpreted as a universal ethic venerating the temporal realm. The implications are liberating, for the ultimate insight is no longer limited to a mystical union subject to claims of sectarian custody, but observed firsthand in the natural order and open for emulation based on one's best judgment.

Our practice merges the meaning of this prayer with the rhythm of chanting Sezoku Hoke Kyō, and welcomes reflection on such matters as overcoming difficulties, personal growth, and the advancement of a common good. The purpose is to cultivate a foremost blend of wisdom and compassion in all.