To chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, say it as four parts — nahm / myo-ho / ren-gay / kyo — slowly at first until the rhythm becomes natural. Follow along with the video below, then chant for 5–10 minutes in the morning or evening in a quiet space. No Japanese, prior experience, or particular belief is required to begin.
Step 1: Learn the Chant
Nam-myoho-renge-kyo
Pronounced: nahm myo-ho ren-gay kyo
This is the core practice of Nichiren Buddhism. You don't need to understand Japanese, have prior experience, or believe anything in particular to start. Just chant and observe what happens in your life.
Step 2: Pronunciation Guide
Break It Down
NAM
/nahm/
Devotion
MYOHO
/myo-ho/
Mystic Law
RENGE
/ren-gay/
Lotus
KYO
/kyo/
Sutra
Full meaning
“I devote myself to the Mystic Law of the Lotus Sutra”
Nichiren taught that the Lotus Sutra contains the highest teaching of the Buddha, the declaration that every person, without exception, possesses the potential for Buddhahood. Chanting its title is a way of awakening that potential within your own life.
Step 3: The Daily Practice
What Is Gongyo?
Gongyo (literally “assiduous practice”) is the twice-daily recitation of portions of the Lotus Sutra, the 2nd and 16th chapters, followed by chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. Most members do morning gongyo before heading into their day and evening gongyo before bed.
New to practice? Start with daimoku: just chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. You can gradually add the gongyo portions once you connect with an SGI community and receive guidance from a more experienced member.
Morning Gongyo
Set your intention for the day. Chant about your goals, challenges, and the people you want to support.
Evening Gongyo
Reflect on the day. Chant with gratitude for what went well, and resolve for what you want to change.
Common Questions
FAQ
- How do you pronounce Nam-myoho-renge-kyo?
- Break it into four parts: NAHM / MYO-HO / REN-GAY / KYO. Say it slowly at first; the rhythm becomes natural quickly.
- How long should I chant each day?
- There's no required minimum. Most practitioners start with 5–10 minutes morning and evening. Consistency matters more than duration.
- Do I need a Gohonzon to start?
- No. New practitioners begin by chanting and attending meetings. You receive a Gohonzon later, through a ceremony, after you decide to formally start practicing.
- What should I chant about?
- Anything. Your job, your relationships, your health, your goals, your confusion. Buddhism teaches that your life and your environment are not separate; chanting creates the inner conditions for change.
- Can I chant if I'm not Buddhist?
- Absolutely. Many people chant as an exploration, without identifying as Buddhist. Nichiren Buddhism is a practice, not a belief system you must accept before you begin.
Ready to Try It?
The best way to learn is with others. Attend a free Buddhism 101 meeting in Las Vegas and chant alongside our community.