Nichiren Daishonin used many characters to represent the actual functions of the universe and of our own lives. On the Gohonzon, these functions are clustered around Nam-myoho-renge-kyo; therefore, the Gohonzon is the embodiment of the life of Buddhahood within us.Images are interpretive, not scholarly representations.

Great HeavenlyKing VaishravanaListens to prayers andvows to protect those

who embrace theLotus Sutra

Wisdom KingImmovableEnters into a flame-emittingmeditation that destroys allkarmic hindrances

Great HeavenlyKing Wide-EyedDivine insight discernsevil and arouses theaspiration for Buddahood

Great HeavenlyKing Increase andGrowthRelieves people of their sufferingand pledges to protect thosewho embrace the Lotus Sutra

Mount SumeruStands at the center of the world

Great HeavenlyKing Upholder of the NationMaintains the world and pledgesto protect the votaries of the

Lotus Sutra

Eight GreatDragon KingsAssembled to hearthe Lotus Sutra

Devil King ofthe Sixth HeavenWorks to obstructBuddhist practice

The SunGoddessProtects the prosperityof those who have faithin the True Law

Four Leaders of theBodhisattvas of theEarthBodhisattva Firmly Established Practices,Bodhisattva Pure Practices, Bodhisattva Superior Practices,Bodhisattva Boundless Practices

Wisdom KingCraving-FilledPurifies people’s earthly desiresand frees them from illusions

Ten DemonDaughtersPledge to protect the votariesof the Lotus Sutra

Wish-GrantingJewelPossesses the powerto produce whateverone desires Congratulations!