The Evolving Buddha

New Perspectives and Dynamic Change in Nichiren Buddhism (SGI)

By: J.D. Gilbert

Narrated by: J.D. Gilbert

Length: 7 hrs and 30 mins

Publisher's summary

“I do not think I have ever read anything that has impressed and inspired me more.” (José CavillaIs)

Buddhism dynamically changing to meet the challenges of the 21st Century and empower humanity? Nichiren Buddhists of the Soka Gakkai tradition would likely say, yes.

“So many people say that if they were to take up a religion, it would be Buddhism. For them, and for the thousands of existing practitioners, here is a beautifully written book…. Consistently asking the questions the reader wants answered, it promotes a questioning approach consistent with freedom of thought.” (Jim Cowan, author, The Britain Potential, and editor, Buddhism of the Sun)

In this book, J.D. Gilbert challenges the preconceptions around this ancient religion by showing how Buddhism has been and remains a dynamic and evolving framework for universal truths and personal transformation.

Focusing on the world's largest lay Buddhist movement, Soka Gakkai International (SGI), practitioners of Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism, Gilbert relays wide-ranging research demonstrating that much of what we hold as "absolute" has undergone its own evolutionary journey. In so doing, the meaning and structures of Buddhism are given a refreshing and renewed perspective.

Taking six key aspects of SGI Buddhism, Gilbert validates the universality and inclusiveness of this great faith by revealing the human stories that created modern Buddhism whilst interweaving his own personal experiences.

The six key themes examined are:

• The Lotus Sutra – Where did it come from and what is its significance?
• Nichiren – Who was this spiritual innovator and what is his identity?
• Nam-myoho-renge-kyo – How does chanting actually work and can science tell us?
• The Gohonzon – What is the true nature of this devotional object?
• The Soka Gakkai and SGI – Why do we need an organisation to practise Buddhism?
• Daisaku Ikeda – How did Ikeda’s philosophy develop and why is he regarded as a mentor?

©2021 Jonathan Gilbert (P)2022 Jonathan Gilbert

On my “must read” list

I’m currently seeking out books that will help as I reignite my Buddhist practice and also looking for books to include into my homeschool curriculum for my children.

This book is phenomenal as a really thorough look at all aspects of this practice and opens up every aspect for inspection from a neutral standpoint. I also love his story and his perspective and experience with this practice. It will most definitely be a cornerstone in my evolution as a Buddhist.

Thank you!

Great Overview

As someone who’s attempt to join SGI USA during the pandemic and is therefore still waiting for full membership and the respect of the Gohonzon, study and increased understanding have been very important in keeping up morale. Reading this book with its international perspective has bern helpful in solidifying my pursuit! Thank you!

Nicely written

Very informative and precise information. It captures the heart of SGI and it's members.

An objective yet inspiring overview of the SGI

I’ve been a member of the SGI for many years, but just as Nichiren himself surmised (“to begin practice is easy; to continue is difficult”) my practice began to wane as challenges to my life circumstances mounted. This book was like having a fellow member sit with me and provide excellent reasons and rationale for taking up my practice again - with more confidence in its efficacy than ever before. HIGHLY recommend!

An inspiring look into the SGI

This book is awesome and well read by the narrator. The author takes the time to explain the evolution of the SGI and makes the information very accessible to anyone who is interested. I’d say it’s one of the best books I’ve read on the subject in quite a long time. I’d recommend this to anyone interested in Nichiren Buddhism and or the humanist and universal direction the SGI has taken!