To start practicing Nichiren Buddhism, take three simple steps: watch our how-to video and chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo; connect with a local SGI district that meets monthly near you in Las Vegas; and receive your own Gohonzon as your practice deepens. No prior experience is needed, and everything is free.
Watch: How to Chant
First things first: just watch. You don't have to believe anything or sign anything. Just hit play and see what chanting is all about.
Chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is kind of like humming your favorite song when you're stressed, except it actually helps you figure out what to do next. People say it gives them clarity, courage, and a calm feeling, even in the middle of total chaos.
Get Connected to Your District
Your district is your crew. It's a small group of people in YOUR neighborhood who get together once a month to study Buddhism, share stories, and cheer each other on.
Think of it like a book club, except instead of books, everyone is working on becoming their best selves. And actually helping each other do it. People show up for each other here. That's the whole point.
Use our District Locator to find the group closest to your home in Las Vegas.
Receive Your Own Gohonzon
As your practice deepens, you'll have the opportunity to receive the Gohonzon — the central object of devotion in Nichiren Buddhism. It's a scroll inscribed with Chinese and Sanskrit characters, with Nam-myoho-renge-kyo written down the center. Nichiren Daishonin first inscribed it in the 13th century as an expression of the enlightened life-state he believed every person already possesses.
The Gohonzon is not a statue or an external deity to petition. Think of it as a mirror — something you face during morning and evening practice to reflect and awaken the wisdom, courage, and compassion already inside you. ChantingNam-myoho-renge-kyo while facing it is the core of daily SGI practice.
When you're ready, the Gohonzon is enshrined in a home altar called a butsudan. Most practitioners receive it after spending time chanting and connecting with their local community. Your district members will guide you through this step — there's no rush and no pressure.
“The Gohonzon exists only within the mortal flesh of us ordinary people who embrace the Lotus Sutra and chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo.”
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