Secular Independent Prayer

For an explanation of the underlying teachings that support these prayers, you are encouraged to read Lotus Buddhism Redefined for a Secular Worldview.

The following link is to a Word file with the below prayers for reformatting and placement in a prayer book. Secular Independent Prayer.doc. 

For a ritual, instead of chanting Nam Myōhō Renge Kyō ("In veneration of a mystical Lotus Sutra"), try Sezoku Hoke Kyō ("A secular Lotus Sutra"). Veneration is inferred by the way the expression is invoked. To supplement chanting, pending the development of a secular liturgy, the traditional recitation from the Lotus Sutra's second and sixteenth chapters is an option.

Of note, a formal ritual is not essential. The idea is to conform one's mind and actions with a preeminent moral principle from immanence. Depending on your situation, recalling "The conditional emergence of benevolence as gifted by time, process, and potential." on occasion may be sufficient. If a ritual is performed, the following is a sample prayer to be read at the end:

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.

In consideration of those who embrace a secular worldview, the Lotus Sutra's venerable core has come to represent the conditional emergence of benevolence as gifted by time, process, and potential. A morality meant to surpass and better both civil and religious authority, and encourage the aspiration for a peaceful world.

To accord with advances in knowledge and discernment, the Lotus Sutra's revelation of a supreme truth beyond comprehension was converted into a universal ethic that requires understanding to respect. The implications are liberating, for enlightenment is no longer limited to a mystical union subject to claims of sectarian custody, but instead observed firsthand in the natural order and open for emulation based on one's best judgment.

Our choice for a practice is to bond with the meaning and rhythm of chanting Sezoku Hoke Kyo. And, while chanting, reflect on matters like overcoming difficulties, personal growth, and the enhancement of a common good. The overriding purpose being to cultivate a foremost blend of wisdom and compassion in oneself and others.