Gongyo in Nichiren Buddhism is the formal, daily liturgical practice that gives structure and depth to chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. It consists of reciting portions of the Lotus Sutra—specifically the “Expedient Means” (Chapter 2) and “Life Span of the Thus Come One” (Chapter 16)—in Japanese, performed while facing the Gohonzon or a focal point of devotion. This recitation is followed by chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo (daimoku) and offering silent prayers for specific intentions. In this way, Gongyo functions as a kind of ceremonial dialogue with the fundamental Law embodied in the Gohonzon, strengthening faith and awakening Buddha nature.

As a daily rhythm, Gongyo is traditionally performed twice, in the morning and in the evening. Morning Gongyo sets the spiritual tone for the day, while evening Gongyo allows reflection on the day and the setting of fresh determinations. The basic structure is simple yet profound: begin with the sutra recitation, move into daimoku, and conclude with silent prayers. The sutra portions create the spiritual context, daimoku activates and manifests that inner potential, and the silent prayers direct it toward concrete aims, both personal and universal.

To integrate Gongyo with an existing chanting practice, it is helpful to treat it as the framework or container for daimoku. One can start by reciting the designated sections of Chapters 2 and 16, then transition into a period of focused Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, and finally offer silent prayers for oneself, others, and peace in the world. Even if the duration is short at first, maintaining this sequence consistently, morning and evening, allows the practice to take root. Over time, the rhythm of sutra, daimoku, and prayer becomes a disciplined way of aligning personal transformation with the broader aspiration for global peace and collective awakening.