Fun with top SGI-USA leaders! Take a look at Greg Martin's arguments for why I shouldn't buy antique 5'-tall Nichiren Shu gohonzons

I forgot all about this - just stumbled upon it. It's terrific. Sit back and drink it in:

1. The instructions about the Gohonzon's transcription from the Dai-Gohonzon are explained by Nikko Shonin. Anything outside of that we don't consider a proper object of devotion not being within the transmission of faith from Nichiren to Nikko. Nichiren Shu, in our view, clearly does not understand the object of devotion since they worship foxes, snakes and other things. And since you and I can't read the originals nor make informed decisions about matters of the Gohonzon I see no reason to play around with the objects of devotion of those who betrayed the Daishonin's life, teachings and intention. Why? because it looks nice? I wouldn't.

2. I think you haven't considered the impact of hanging, even as a piece of art, an object superficially similar to anyone who can't read the caligraphy to the Gohonzon we practice too. In effect, to any member, guest or non-member, your home would indicate that you consider the Gohonzon a piece of art, a decoration, an accessory. Why would you confuse people in this way for no reason? Sure you know that's not what you intend. But they don't. And unless they ask or unless you clarify to each and every person who walks through your door the subtle but important differences between what is hanging so casually on your wall and what is enshrined so devotedly in your alter you will, in effect, be conveying misinformation. Of course, you could hide it away somewhere or never have anybody over to the house but then what's the point of art if you can't display it?

3. The Gohonzon of Nichiren Shu is an incorrect object of devotion that does not convey the Daishonin's enlightenment. It conveys something else, however. There is a message there. If you found a peice of beautiful art with words in a foreign language but then found out the words meant "death" or "women are evil" or "war is beautiful" would you hang it simply because it's pretty or matches your decor? I doubt it. Once you knew what its purpose and intent is you would always, I suspect, feel a bit uncomfortable displaying it. Why? Because displaying it once you know its message indicates at some level your endorsement of the message; your comfort with the message. Even if it was in an archane language that was unlikely anyone would be able to read still once the message was clear to me I would be hesitant to display it in my home as a personal expression. In a museum maybe, but not my home. Knowing that it misrepresents the enlightenment and teachings of Nichiren Daishonin why own it? Why display it? Why become attached to it? If asked what it says how will you explain? "Oh, this is an object of devotion of a sect of Nichiren Buddhism made by those who betrayed my mentors heart and spirit. It explains that Nichiren is not the true Buddha; that women cannot attain enlightenment in this lifetime; that one can worship anything one likes--including foxes and snakes. It is completely incorrect and at odds with my own faith and practice.... but I like the way it looks so I'm overlooking its meaning and message because it fits my decor." Frankly I don't know what it says or what it intends. But, I suspect, neither do you. Knowing the origins (Nichiren Shu) I would not be inclined to assume the best.

and more...

Sorry, I've been a bit too straightforward and perhaps offended you. Not my intention. But I do want to strongly state the case because you seem to have become attached to this art object and lost perspective.

#Although your leaders may not know exactly why you shouldn't buy it their instincts and concern for you are quite correct.

I wholeheartedly caution you to buy something else for your living room.

(Actually, it was for my stairwell, not my living room, and if there were a beautiful example of antique calligraphy in a language I did not know that said "women suck and yo mama is a poopoohead", I'd hang it anyway :b)

Here's what we're talking about:

#1

#2

As displayed (out of sight of the meeting area)