Soka Gakkai, as a lay-centered movement within the Nichiren tradition, does have a clearly defined ritual life, though its forms are relatively simple and closely tied to daily living. At the heart of this is the twice-daily practice of gongyo: the recitation of portions of the Lotus Sutra—specifically the Hoben and Juryo chapters—together with the chanting of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo before the Gohonzon, usually enshrined in a home altar or butsudan. This daily rhythm is regarded not merely as a formal observance, but as a way of aligning one’s life with the core teaching of the Lotus Sutra and cultivating inner transformation. Group chanting meetings, including more focused shodai sessions, extend this same practice into a communal setting, where shared determination and mutual support become part of the ritual atmosphere.

Beyond daily practice, Soka Gakkai places strong emphasis on regular discussion meetings, or zadankai, which combine elements of ritual and study. These gatherings typically include chanting, study of Nichiren’s writings and Soka Gakkai publications, and the sharing of personal experiences of practice. In this way, the boundary between “ceremony” and “community life” becomes porous: the ritual of chanting is interwoven with dialogue, reflection, and encouragement. Monthly and other periodic activities, such as study meetings and extended chanting sessions, function as recurring touchstones that reaffirm both doctrinal understanding and shared purpose.

There are also more formalized ceremonies marking key transitions and milestones in a practitioner’s life of faith. Gojukai, the ceremony of receiving the Gohonzon, signifies the decision to begin this practice in earnest and to enshrine the Gohonzon as the central focus of one’s Buddhist life. Weddings conducted before the Gohonzon and memorial services (often referred to as okuyo) for deceased members are likewise shaped around chanting and recitation, expressing a Buddhist view of life, death, and human relationships grounded in the Lotus Sutra. These rites are lay-led rather than priest-centered, reflecting Soka Gakkai’s emphasis on the dignity and responsibility of ordinary practitioners.

Finally, Soka Gakkai observes a number of commemorative and cultural occasions that also take on a ritual character. Annual ceremonies such as Soka Gakkai Day on May 3, along with other gatherings honoring founders and significant historical dates, are marked by chanting, study, and renewed determinations for kosen-rufu, the widespread propagation of the teaching for the happiness of all people. Cultural activities—arts festivals, educational and peace-related events—are often regarded as extensions of spiritual practice, embodying in outward form the inner vow cultivated through daily gongyo and daimoku. In this way, the movement’s rituals do not stand apart from ordinary life, but seek to infuse everyday activity with the spirit of practice.