SGI-USA Men’s Division
Suggested Study Material for August 2016
In August, as we commemorate the traditional Men’s month, we are studying “Rissho Ankoku,” pages 223-250
from volume 4 of “The New Human Revolution.” Attached is a pdf of this section. The passages below are provided
to support the Men’s Division study. Everyone is encouraged to have his own copy of “The New Human Revolution,”
which is available at your local SGI-USA book store or through the website.
Rissho Ankoku
(Page references below from volume 4 of “The New Human Revolution”)
***
The purpose of faith is to bring our humanity to full bloom. A single blossom brightens its surroundings and gives
pleasure to those who gaze upon it. In the same way, true faith means that the more an individual strives, the
more considerate toward others and the more cheerful and lively he or she will become. (pp.223)
***
Rissho means "to establish the true," in other words, the propagation of the True Law. It means to ingrain such
tenets as the sanctity of life and respect for human dignity in people's lives and establish them as guiding
principles in society. The purpose of this is "to bring peace to the land" (ankoku), to bring about the security and
prosperity of society. (pp.224)
***
Genuine empathy goes beyond simply sharing another's troubles and lamenting over them together – beyond
mere words of sympathy and consolation. Those who truly empathize with others act with daring and strength to
find ways to help people overcome their misery. Such individuals possess a fearlessness rooted in profound
compassion, as well as unyielding faith and conviction. (pp.238)
***
"The cause of the social disorder and many tragic events we've been seeing lies in people being caught in a way
of thinking that forgets to accord prime importance to the human being.” (pp.243)
Questions:
1. As Men’s Division members, how can we protect our country in the midst of so much violence and
divisiveness?
2. Please share your thoughts or experiences on ways to ensure that Men’s Division members can take the
lead in propagation efforts.