What is Benefit? (Jo-Raku-Ga-Jo)
In Nichiren Shoshu Buddhism, benefit refers to the transformation and growth we achieve through faith and practice, specifically through chanting to the Gohonzon. This practice enables us to tap into the life condition of Buddhahood, fundamentally transforming our lives.
Key Concepts of Benefit:
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Expiating Negative Karma:
By practicing sincerely, the heavy suffering caused by past negative karma can be experienced as a lighter effect. This allows us to face challenges in life with greater ease and understanding. -
Hendoku Iyaku (Changing Poison into Medicine):
Faith empowers us to transform negative circumstances—such as health issues, financial struggles, or relationship conflicts—into opportunities for happiness and growth.- Poor health can turn into vitality.
- Poverty can be replaced with financial stability.
- Discord can transform into harmony and fulfillment.
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Overcoming Challenges:
Regardless of the problems or sufferings we face, strong faith helps us resolve these challenges, leading to a deeper sense of happiness and fulfillment. -
Attaining Buddhahood in Present Form:
The ultimate benefit is achieving Buddhahood while living in our current form. This does not mean escaping life’s troubles, but rather living with joy, courage, and the power to overcome all obstacles.
The Four Virtues of Jo-Raku-Ga-Jo:
- Jo (Eternity): Life is indestructible and eternal, continuing beyond this existence.
- Raku (Tranquillity): True happiness arises from within, independent of external conditions.
- Ga (True Self): A strong, harmonious will that remains unshaken by external influences.
- Jo (Purity): A life of purity, free from negativity or harmful influences.
Nichiren Daishonin’s Guidance:
“Great achievement means happiness. To subdue evil is the great achievement. To accumulate goodness is called virtue. In Buddhism, great achievement and virtue (benefit) mean attaining Buddhahood in one’s present form.”
(Gosho, p. 1775)
“Suffer what there is to suffer, enjoy what there is to enjoy. Regard both suffering and joy as facts of life and continue chanting Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo, no matter what happens. Then you will experience boundless joy from the Law.”
(MW, Vol. 1, p. 161; Gosho, p. 991)
Through faith and practice, we transform suffering into a source of strength and fulfillment, unlocking the limitless potential of our lives. True benefit allows us to face life’s challenges with unshakable joy and confidence.