Within Nichiren Buddhism, chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo—the title of the Lotus Sutra—is regarded as a direct means of awakening one’s inherent Buddha nature, the wellspring of wisdom, courage, and compassion. This inner awakening is described as “human revolution,” a profound transformation of the deepest tendencies and karmic patterns that shape one’s life. Rather than treating difficulties as fixed or fated, this tradition views them as expressions of karma and delusion that can be transformed at their root. Chanting is therefore not a passive plea for rescue, but a disciplined spiritual practice aimed at changing the very life-condition from which thoughts, emotions, and actions arise.

From this standpoint, specific challenges—illness, financial strain, relationship conflict, career obstacles, or emotional suffering—are all addressed through the same fundamental process of inner change. As chanting strengthens life force and clarity, practitioners report a shift from fear, resentment, or confusion toward resilience, resourcefulness, and a broader perspective. This inner shift is said to manifest outwardly as better judgment, more creative problem-solving, and the courage to take concrete steps in difficult situations. In this way, chanting functions less as a supernatural intervention and more as a catalyst that enables a person to meet circumstances with transformed insight and determination.

Central to this view are the teachings of changing karma and “turning poison into medicine.” Negative patterns and recurring problems are not seen as permanent stains but as raw material for growth and awakening. Through sustained chanting, study, and engagement with others, hardships are reinterpreted as opportunities to deepen compassion and wisdom. As one’s fundamental life condition changes, relationships may soften, new opportunities may become visible, and even severe obstacles can become occasions for strengthening character and faith.

This inner work is also given a broader, global dimension. When many individuals carry out such human revolution—transforming their own fear and hostility into wisdom and compassion—the collective impact is believed to contribute to peace and social betterment, a process often described as kosen-rufu. Thus, chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is understood as a practice that addresses very concrete, personal problems while simultaneously participating in a wider movement toward the transformation of society, grounded not in escapism or wishful thinking, but in the steady reformation of the human heart.