Within Soka Gakkai, the Gohonzon is regarded as the central object of devotion, a sacred mandala in scroll form that represents the enlightened life state of Buddhahood inherent in all people. It is inscribed primarily with the phrase Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, the title of the Lotus Sutra, together with the name of Nichiren and the names of Buddhas, bodhisattvas, protective deities, and other significant figures. These characters are arranged in a specific pattern that is understood as a “mandala of life,” expressing the full range of life’s conditions illuminated by the Mystic Law. Rather than being worshipped as an external deity, the Gohonzon is viewed as a mirror that reflects the highest potential within one’s own life.

In practical terms, the Gohonzon is enshrined in a household altar, or butsudan, placed in a clean and respectful space. Practitioners receive a Gohonzon through a conferral ceremony and then make it the focus of their daily Buddhist practice. Morning and evening, they sit facing the Gohonzon to chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo and to recite portions of the Lotus Sutra, especially passages from chapters 2 and 16. This rhythm of chanting and recitation is not merely ritual; it is undertaken with the intention of activating the inherent Buddha nature, transforming karma, and summoning forth courage, wisdom, and compassion.

The Gohonzon thus functions as both symbol and catalyst: symbol, in that it visually embodies the oneness of person and Law, and catalyst, in that it serves as a focal point through which inner transformation is brought to bear on concrete circumstances. Practitioners chant while holding specific aspirations—overcoming obstacles, resolving problems, realizing their full potential—trusting that inner change will be reflected in their environment. In this way, the relationship between self and surroundings is experienced as deeply interconnected, and the Gohonzon becomes a daily reminder that enlightenment is not a distant ideal but a living possibility within the fabric of ordinary life.