Soka Gakkai - the cult rules Japan
You don't know anything about Soka Gakkai? Don't worry about that because this website is for those who don't know much about Japan.
A sect of Buddism, Soka Gakkai, is referred to as Soka Gakkai International (SGI) in the world, so I'll call SGI from now on. Surprisingly, this cult has been prevailing in over 100 countries all around the world. You live in America? Oh, yes. it has even two universities in california, giving birth to a lot of believers. On the other hand, it was designated by French parliament as a cult, so the article I'm writing may have something to do with your life even outside Japan. (Recently I've heard a rumor that SGI attempted to steal nuclear weapons from France. Please give me any information on this.) By the way, I've heard that SGI was accused by France because it attempted to steal nuclear bombs from France. Let me know if you know furthermore about this.
The weiredness of the cult can be vividly seen when you go to a town in Tokyo, Shinanomachi, where it's located several stations away from Tokyo station; it's as the center of Tokyo. As soon as you get off the train, you'd see a weired ambient with tricolored flags here and there, at the shops or electric poles. They're SGI's flags! As you walk through into the district, suddenly you'd feel you are watched by someone. You turn back, and there's someonee keeping on the track of you. He has a transceiver and doesn't even hide it. You got scared so much. And what would you do? Going to police? Well, it's not gonna work because it's called "Soka heaven" here, and of course the police is "Soka police". The above pic I borrowed from a website is a very precious; the blogger was surrounded by a couple of guys and asked what he was taking pictures for. He ran away and posted this pic. The town of SGI is THAT dangerous to snooping around.
Here I uploaded a map of SGI's territory around the town in which oranged and grayed buildings belong to SGI. Just imagine that one whole town is occupied by a cult. It's so scaring. There are many shops recently built dealing with SGI stuff although they are not shown in the map, and of course they are run by the practitioners.
Let me explain why they are called "a cult". One aspect is that they don't allow to be critisized at all. The map I got is originally published by "Weekly Diamond", which featured SGI several years ago, but it resulted in buy-out by SGI, not letting many readers to purchase this number. Those buy-out usually is followed by a successive defamation suits against the publisher regardless the quality of the article. They are OK because they have plenty of money sucked from the earnest believers.
No matter how I insist, you're not going to believe it, aren't you? I happened to run into a video clip from Youtube, and this will convince you. It's a censorship of NHK, the only public TV company and therefore the principal channel.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=Gsw3EwL98S8&search=sokagakkai
Even if you don't know Japanese, you could barely hear the woman said "Komeito" and "Soka Gakkai". Komeito is a political party SGI has, and it's taboo on TV although everyone knows it. Since the constitution prohibites any reliigilus group from forming a political party, it's not allowed to even imply the relationship between two. Japan is still not a country with freedom of speech.
posted by yellowpeep @ 11:47 AM
58 Comments:
Thank you for your comment. One of them that I know is in Aliso Vieso, called Soka Universigy of America. I get you the map.
http://www.soka.edu/uploaded/downloads/SUAStreetMap.gif
I'm looking forward to your photos!
I still don't understand how they are threatening, or how their behaviour is inappropriate. Following someone is OK behaviour in most countries, as far as I know.
Does their beliefs involve blood-letting, or something?
Just curious.
Yeah, this article isn't appealing in terms of the danger of SGI as you claim.
SGI is a terrible mafia, and of course blood-letting group. Let me write a new article about that some day. Thank for pointing it ouT.
Question, how do you know if they're a blood letting group? or a mafia? I know they're buddhists and no one should be judged by their religion.
kxin, you are not supposed to know the mastermind behind JFK asassination.
Hi there,
I'm an SGI member and I love the organization. That said, I've always been VERY suspicious of all organized religions (as possible money-making schemes or ways for perverts or power-trippers to take advantage of people) but after 3 years as a member I have to say, being part of SGI is the best thing that has ever happened to me in my entire life, and that's saying a lot. I don't give them any money (unless I feel like it, because I want to support such a cool group) no one bothers me or asks me to do anything I don't want to do, and I've gotten to know a lot of really wonderful members in my area and made friends with members around the world (we're in 190 countries and are incorporated as an NGO under the United Nations.) I've learned a lot about respecting other cultures, non-violence, and the importance of promoting peace and happiness for all people.
Believe me, I am the first person to look with a critical eye on any religious organization that says it's there just for the good of the people, but I can honestly say I can't find anything wrong with SGI--only fabulous things and genuinely good people who want to live happy lives and help others. Also, the United Nations is careful about what organizations they'll incorporate under their charter. I don't think they'd let themselves be associated with a cult, so that's another thing you might want to weigh in your mind when judging for yourself whether or not the organization is good.
If you want to know more, feel free to check out the website http://www.sgi-usa.org/ and contact someone in your area to learn more, or come to a meeting and find out for yourself what SGI is like. I certainly don't expect you to take my word for it. You're an intelligent, grown-up person and can decide for yourself. Come on by and see what you think.
And if you don't want to look into it any more, that's cool too, but regardless, whoever reads this, I wish you tons of happiness and success in your life!
Peace,
Autumn
Thanks for your comment. I don't deny the freedom of religeon. Believe whatever you like.
Religeon makes your life more beneficial if the worship is just inside your heart.
You made me laugh tonight. Sorry you are so worried. You needn't be. SGI is just into peace. And not the kind that is supposed to come by dropping bombs on other people. In fact, there quite opposed to that. Mostly they think you have to talk things over and learn to understand one another. That's pretty much it. If you want to know more about it, check out
these sites: from the BBC : http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/buddhism/subdivisions/nichiren/ or check out their website at www.sgi.org or www.si-usa.org
Peace out.
Chilly
Soka Gakkai Japan is the largest, wealthiest and the most controversial religious organization to say the least.
It has caused too many severe societal/political problems and psychological issues among members.
It's been around in USA for 30 years already.
I've lived in Japan and USA both for many years.
Now, I fear for what’s coming to USA.
We need to nip it in the bud before we suffer from the same catastrophes in USA.
In 2004, Forbes published an article about Soka Gakkai USA. It is very thorough and true, actually pretty mild compared to what Soka Gakkai is doing in Japan. I can attest to that because I have been a member for 20 years myself.
I'm considering leaving the organization due to its cult tendency. We do not need any religious implementation to reinforce world peace, culture and human rights, not to mention, to collect massive millions of dollars from the members, and they are not even disclosing the financial ledgers to members. For world peace, human rights and diversity, we would rather refer to our constitution of The United States of America.
For Forbes article, go to
http://www.wwrn.org/article.php?idd=4874&sec=55&con=20
Also, The Rick Ross Institute for destructive cult provides a very informative and neutral database for Soka Gakkai. Go to
http://www.rickross.com/groups/gakkai.html
*PS I'm posting this comment anonymously.
Because, if I disclose my full name, Soka Gakkai, especially right extremist members could trace me down for a severe retaliation.
Someone wrote "I don't give them any money (unless I feel like it, because I want to support such a cool group) no one bothers me or asks me to do anything I don't want to do" Tha't not true in Japan. Every end of year, we are asked to give a lot of money to SGI Japan (at least 100 USD). In addition we have to subscribe their newspaper every month. It's very expensive compared to the contents and volume. However, we are not reported any summary of their B/L. On the newspaper, we always see photos and articles about Mr. Ikeda and his family members and critisize of Nichiren-Shoshu, which Mr. Ikeda joined in his 19 years and had devoted his life except last 10 years.
World Peace is a useful word for CULT, to deceive the innocent.
SGI pretend to live for it, but in fact, that is only a propaganda to build credibility.
In their theory, those against SGI must be burnt in hell. How colorful! How peaceful a religion!
Also, once a believer loses faith, converts to other religion, he should be thrown in hell as well.
Members are all megalomania who belong to immoral organization infected with personality cult, Ikedaism.
SGI always like to use such words as, victory, justice, peace, dialogue.
But I can hardly find any of them in SGI's behavior.
On the contrary, all we can find is, lie, hypocrisy, violence, suppression, and the like.
That is FACISM, nothing more!
To worship one person as God, has anything to do with to achieve world peace?
I guess not!!
My comment'
Dear readers I have been a member of Soka Gakkai for 2 years and 6 months and it has changed my life for the 100 percentage mark. I am an artist and very sensitive to life. yadayada yalla. Anyway, I chant nam myoho renge kyo the indian sanskript we chant from shyakamuni buddha. It has a way about it that has changed every obstacle I meet into a positive one. I know some people have started many rumors in Japan about soka gakkai being a cult. Well the reason is during WW2 everyone was restricted by the government of japan to practise on religion and it was shinto buddhism at the time. So the followers of the nicherin daishonin buddhism were imprisoned. They started the political party komeito to have positive forces to go against nuclear power from ever happening again and also to stop japan from having an army if they ever try to do so. Yeah so the komeito party works with some evil political parties in japan, the reason being, WHO ELSE IS GOING TO BE THE POSitive force??????????????????America and other countries have nothing like this. Look at the American government why dont you start a website calling them a cult?????????????They are screwing people to the f"""n t every single day. I wouldnt waste my time on calling a sect of people practising buddhism a cult. Why dont you spend your time doing something that contributes to the world??? Try going after real issues in the world... Oh yeah by the way we dont believe there is a hell, only the hell that exists in your mind. And we dont believe if you dont practise this buddhism that you are going to hell. People that practise this buddhism all over the world have had some major great things happen. One woman in california was hiv positive she chanted to be hiv negative, and today she is negative with a baby. We call it human revolution, when you have an obstacle its hard at first, but you can overcome your difficulties much quicker then not chanting!!!!!But I say go for whatever religion makes you happy.
Much after this article however I wanted to add my .02.
Twenty years NSA/SGI member and middle-leader. At the bottom are the regular members who the organization keep frenetically busy with activities and shakubuku. At the higher levels its all about getting new members and getting their money. No doubt you may have been asked to give money or buy the monthly magazines. The pressure continues and each HAN and HOMBU are required to bring in a certain $ amount to "meet the goals from Sensei (Ikeda)"
Now that SGI has been excommuinicated and have been xeroxing gohonzons, there remains very little spiritual reality, just a lot of hype.
Best advice I can give anyone, become a moonie, a jehova's witness or something, anything but a SGI robot.
Wakatta
My wife got into this cult group. I explained her about this group thousand times. She is not listening. Any suggestion, please post it here.
I hope that your wife will understand the reality someday. I know just one page in English, helping the victims of Soka Gakkai.
http://www.toride.org/eindex.html
The most of the SGI belivers are very good person, longing for world peace, like your wife. But the SGI top members are not. They hide behind these good believers, plotting something very dangerous. It is believed among native Japanese that many of the members are North Korean residents in Japan. You know North Korea and can imagine how dangerous this cult is. They have too much money to be stopped. I am afraid that something might be happening underground in Japan. Very scared.
just wanted to leave my two cents (or because i'm from the uk my 2p worth)
I have read many of these posts or articles online and have to say in my experience with the soka gakkai this is simply not true, the wide range of people who are soka gakkai members makes it for a wonderfully diverse and beautiful religion to be part of, the exceptance of every human being no matter age, social status, sexuality preference etc... is something which not is found other religions. That being said I have had instances when i have had clashes with members but that has been with the individual member and the way they are acting towards me etc... not the soka gakkai - the member is encouraged to go through their own personal growth and development as a human being (other wise termed human revolution) I have been chanting for 10 years in the uk and am confused to hear members who have been practising for longer have negative things to say as surely after that long practicing they would understand the true intention of this organisation. sorry for the long post, anyway to finish up before making any decision on the soka gakkai (or anything in life come to think of it!) just from a blog or online article (which could be posted by anyone with questionable motives or not properly researched) find out yourself in the real world.
regards,
Benjamin
May I ask, what are your intentions behind the objections about SGI?
with regards to the comment in being an SGI robot - do you not have your own personality and character? Can you not stay true to yourself? Or have you given up in that challengs?
With regards to the high level members of the organisation whose sole intention is to rake in money contributions - Why do you not have the courage to face the leaders if they are self-serving? Why do you not have the guts to turn things around? Do you deeply understand why reading materials are encouraged?
For those who have practiced; actually for those who practice any other religion for that matter. How much have you truly gone all out to put into action all that your learn from the religion? Do you leave even an ounce of reservation and take everything with a pinch of salt? If you have lived with doubt, then regardless of what you believe in, the doubts in your thoughts and actions already contradicts yourself. You are no longer a believer. No one gives you the right to tell you what you believe in, you own yourself, you tell yourself what you believe in. Unfortunately your own doubts rob you of it as well.
"Fish want to survive; they deplore their pond's shallowness andn dig holes in the bottom to hide in, yet tricked by bait, they take the hook. Birds in a tree fear that they are too low and perch in the top branches, yet bewitched by bait, they too are caught in snares. human beings are equally vulnerable. They give their lives for shallow, worldly matters but rarely for the Buddha's precious teachings. Small wonder why they do not attain Buddhahood." - Nichiren Daishonin
I believe that regardless of what religion you are currently practicing or not; that you continue to question and clear all doubts so that you may joyfully reap its benefits from within.
Take care all
xx
Teresa
Many companies are related to soka gakai. Many production companies In fashion or television or music take the artists money away in very large percentages and give loyalty to Soka Gakai. This organisation is a disgusting sneaky organisation. Pretending to be religous they try to get well meaning people. But why would a group need the money they try to generate ? And If a production company In Tokyo does not agree with it they cannot say anything for fear of losing work.
Fact.
Agencies who represent Television Artists In Tokyo are infiltrated by Soka Gakai members and guess what ?
Artists who refuse to join have a tough time.
Many of them become Christian to avoid being punished.
And Soka Members study this blog and comment back ? If they were a genuine peace loving group why would they try so hard t
I mean this is a free area to discuss things.
My guess is that Soka workers who have time to write on here are reading this blog. Go out of your offices and walk down the street and give some money to a poor homeless Japanese person. That is the best way to use money instead of opening offices In Tokyo to just waffle. Peace is something within not something we create In magazines.
Many Japanese do not like Soka. That is why so many companies who support them do not reveal themselves.
While there is a hunger for peace and love there will be cults indefinately. Like there is a devil there is a god though so I am not in fear of them. Bring it on.
And they are not buddhists ! Buddhism exists In temples and everywhere - not in someone`s office with flags outside counting their friends.
Why do most people in groups wear suits and ties ?
And formal uniforms ?
And briefcases ?
Certainly what you said can be investiage.
However, how do you expect me to totally believe whatever you say when you claim yourself to be rightist and concurrently sharing that Japanese women are nothing but sex machines in war times?
Looking at your postings from the first entry to the last entry, you jump from Japanese lifestyle to Wartime history of Japan(and mostly women having sex with soldiers). Does a person with righteousness share this kind of gross information to public? I doubt so.
You also posted a video link to justify that this religion is a cult. How do you expect people to believe when your link is broken? Therefore hardly any evidences to prove its validity.
From all the comments type inside the column, the literacy and the styles of writing are similar. I wonder if it's the same person like you posting the same message again and again? Sentences are short, simple and relatively emotional. Not much reasoning behind, but just only say this what whether religion is bad. If they are bad, why don't you explain how bad it is? I'm looking forward in listening them.
Meanwhile, for a "Soka Policeman" to follow you is hardly weird at all. Did you do or behave suspiciously? My classmate was caught by an auxilliary police because he was behaving weirdly in public. Certainly you would not called Einstein a moron or lazy student because he failed his grade school and constantly daydreaming in class. I think it is really a gross generalisation to show that Soka Policeman is weird or some mafia. We do not need to worry of getting killed by mafias or what not, cause we do not did anything wrong, isn't it?
You make want to consider re- phrasing your entry to make it justifable and soundable, and best to show us more photos. This is because your article sounds like some childish rumbling without much elaboration of the proof and claim. Similarly, can you show us more credible websites instead of the usual Rickcross website? That website has not been updated for a very long time. Just wondering if the website is credible as their information are not up-to-date.
Okay, I grew up in the States and have visited Japan a couple of times.
IMO, the SGI may appear "strange" to some. But if you compare them to any other religious or philosophical organization, I can't see any extreme difference in terms of how they express their desires for people to be good, happy, etc, for example.
How is that much different from a Christian church? Or even the controversial Jehovah Witnesses? In fact, no offense, but the Jehovah's don't believe in celebrating holidays, nor do they believe in blood transfusions. Okay, so maybe I've pointed out aspects of a group that is considered "odd" by even many Americans. But within the context of those of you who are against the SGI here, can u honestly say that the SGI is better/worse? Again no offense, but we in the SGI have nothing against celebrating Christmas (a Christian based religion), we can drink caffeine (something Mormons can't do), and we don't preach against premarital relations, whether you agree or disagree with the importance of certain sexual mores.
So maybe we actually seem too "loose" by comparison, LOL. Other than that, if we look at organizational finances (which who doesn't), the SGI is no different than other religious organizations; if anything, I've never felt coerced into donating money unless I wanted to. Of course there are times when its encouraged, but again people, don't most churches do the same? Actually I've witnessed pastors and such get mad that there isn't enough tithing in their congregations- I've NEVER heard an SGI leader get "mad" at us for not donating enough monies.
In terms of other Buddhist groups, seems they are rather passive and don't reach out enough to get people interested in their philosophies. I went to a Vietnamese Buddhist temple, and the two American monks there seemed so disinterested in attracting people to their services. Again, passivity reigns in these temples. One time these American monks were going to have a donut breakfast talk about Buddhism to attract non Vietnamese, but last I heard they sort of canceled cuz of lack of interest and/or attendance. So much for strong efforts to reach out to the masses.
On the contrary, the SGI makes effort to reach out to many, and partake in numerous community and local events all over the world.
Besides the more mystical side of this organization that bases itself on the foundation of the Lotus Sutra and Human Revolution, or the changing of one's karma or life, what is there to really dislike?
Just because Ikeda is our "mentor" or like a guidance leader, he isn't Jesus Christ for pete's sake! We don't "pray" or bow down to him or the other former SGI president's photos!
-And to the person(s) who live close to SUA in Aliso Viejo, go visit their campus and you'll be surprised & impressed by the diversity, quality of education, and the fact that one doesn't have to even be Buddhist to be a student there! There have been Muslim graduates in full hijab head dress who attended and loved Soka University. Can that be said of many Christian or other religious based schools? No offense to good Christian schools, but I don't see them encouraging Muslims to attend, or other students from other religions to attend as much either. Seems you should more or less be a Christian to attend a Christian college, if I'm not mistaken.
Soka U doesn't even have seminary type classes- its actually a secular school founded by Pres. Ikeda for all to attend regardless of their background.
The SGI basis itself on the teachings of Nichiren Daishonin, and to help humanity at this important time of change and need.
Thanks!
IMO, the SGI may appear "strange" to some. But if you compare them to any other religious or philosophical organization, I can't see any extreme difference in terms of how they express their desires for people to be good, happy, etc, for example.
How is that much different from a Christian church? Or even the controversial Jehovah Witnesses? In fact, no offense, but the Jehovah's don't believe in celebrating holidays, nor do they believe in blood transfusions. Okay, so maybe I've pointed out aspects of a group that is considered "odd" by even many Americans. But within the context of those of you who are against the SGI here, can u honestly say that the SGI is better/worse? Again no offense, but we in the SGI have nothing against celebrating Christmas (a Christian based religion), we can drink caffeine (something Mormons can't do), and we don't preach against premarital relations, whether you agree or disagree with the importance of certain sexual mores.
So maybe we actually seem too "loose" by comparison, LOL. Other than that, if we look at organizational finances (which who doesn't), the SGI is no different than other religious organizations; if anything, I've never felt coerced into donating money unless I wanted to. Of course there are times when its encouraged, but again people, don't most churches do the same? Actually I've witnessed pastors and such get mad that there isn't enough tithing in their congregations- I've NEVER heard an SGI leader get "mad" at us for not donating enough monies.
In terms of other Buddhist groups, seems they are rather passive and don't reach out enough to get people interested in their philosophies. I went to a Vietnamese Buddhist temple, and the two American monks there seemed so disinterested in attracting people to their services. Again, passivity reigns in these temples. One time these American monks were going to have a donut breakfast talk about Buddhism to attract non Vietnamese, but last I heard they sort of canceled cuz of lack of interest and/or attendance. So much for strong efforts to reach out to the masses.
On the contrary, the SGI makes effort to reach out to many, and partake in numerous community and local events all over the world.
Just because Ikeda is our "mentor" or like a guidance leader, he isn't Jesus Christ for pete's sake! We don't "pray" or bow down to him or the other former SGI president's photos!
-And to the person(s) who live close to SUA in Aliso Viejo, go visit their campus and you'll be surprised & impressed by the diversity, quality of education, and the fact that one doesn't have to even be Buddhist to be a student there! There have been Muslim graduates in full hijab head dress who attended and loved Soka University. Can that be said of many Christian or other religious based schools? No offense to good Christian schools, but I don't see them encouraging Muslims to attend, or other students from other religions to attend as much either. Seems you should more or less be a Christian to attend a Christian college, if I'm not mistaken.
Soka U doesn't even have seminary type classes- its actually a secular school founded by Pres. Ikeda for all to attend regardless of their background.
The SGI basis itself on Nichiren Daishonin's teachings, which were very "people to people" based. Its a good philosophy to help us out in these hard times we are experiencing.
Thanks!
IMO, the SGI may appear "strange" to some. But if you compare them to any other religious or philosophical organization, I can't see any extreme difference in terms of how they express their desires for people to be good, happy, etc, for example.
How is that much different from a Christian church? Or even the controversial Jehovah Witnesses? In fact, no offense, but the Jehovah's don't believe in celebrating holidays, nor do they believe in blood transfusions. Okay, so maybe I've pointed out aspects of a group that is considered "odd" by even many Americans. But within the context of those of you who are against the SGI here, can u honestly say that the SGI is better/worse? Again no offense, but we in the SGI have nothing against celebrating Christmas (a Christian based religion), we can drink caffeine (something Mormons can't do), and we don't preach against premarital relations, whether you agree or disagree with the importance of certain sexual mores.
So maybe we actually seem too "loose" by comparison, LOL. Other than that, if we look at organizational finances (which who doesn't), the SGI is no different than other religious organizations; if anything, I've never felt coerced into donating money unless I wanted to. Of course there are times when its encouraged, but again people, don't most churches do the same? Actually I've witnessed pastors and such get mad that there isn't enough tithing in their congregations- I've NEVER heard an SGI leader get "mad" at us for not donating enough monies.
Just because Ikeda is our "mentor" or like a guidance leader, he isn't Jesus Christ for pete's sake! We don't "pray" or bow down to him or the other former SGI president's photos!
-And to the person(s) who live close to SUA in Aliso Viejo, go visit their campus and you'll be surprised & impressed by the diversity, quality of education, and the fact that one doesn't have to even be Buddhist to be a student there! There have been Muslim graduates in full hijab head dress who attended and loved Soka University. Can that be said of many Christian or other religious based schools? No offense to good Christian schools, but I don't see them encouraging Muslims to attend, or other students from other religions to attend as much either. Seems you should more or less be a Christian to attend a Christian college, if I'm not mistaken.
Soka U doesn't even have seminary type classes- its actually a secular school founded by Pres. Ikeda for all to attend regardless of their background.
The SGI basis itself on Nichiren Daishonin's teachings, which were very "people to people" based. Its a good philosophy to help us out in these hard times we are experiencing.
Thanks!
IMO, the SGI may appear "strange" to some. But if you compare them to any other religious or philosophical organization, I can't see any extreme difference in terms of how they express their desires for people to be good, happy, etc, for example.
How is that much different from a Christian church? Or even the controversial Jehovah Witnesses? In fact, no offense, but the Jehovah's don't believe in celebrating holidays, nor do they believe in blood transfusions. Okay, so maybe I've pointed out aspects of a group that is considered "odd" by even many Americans. But within the context of those of you who are against the SGI here, can u honestly say that the SGI is better/worse? Again no offense, but we in the SGI have nothing against celebrating Christmas (a Christian based religion), we can drink caffeine (something Mormons can't do), and we don't preach against premarital relations, whether you agree or disagree with the importance of certain sexual mores.
So maybe we actually seem too "loose" by comparison, LOL. Other than that, if we look at organizational finances (which who doesn't), the SGI is no different than other religious organizations; if anything, I've never felt coerced into donating money unless I wanted to. Of course there are times when its encouraged, but again people, don't most churches do the same? Actually I've witnessed pastors and such get mad that there isn't enough tithing in their congregations- I've NEVER heard an SGI leader get "mad" at us for not donating enough monies.
Just because Ikeda is our "mentor" or like a guidance leader, he isn't Jesus Christ for pete's sake! We don't "pray" or bow down to him or the other former SGI president's photos!
-And to the person(s) who live close to SUA in Aliso Viejo, go visit their campus and you'll be surprised & impressed by the diversity, quality of education, and the fact that one doesn't have to even be Buddhist to be a student there! There have been Muslim graduates in full hijab head dress who attended and loved Soka University. Can that be said of many Christian or other religious based schools? No offense to good Christian schools, but I don't see them encouraging Muslims to attend, or other students from other religions to attend as much either. Seems you should more or less be a Christian to attend a Christian college, if I'm not mistaken.
Soka U doesn't even have seminary type classes- its actually a secular school founded by Pres. Ikeda for all to attend regardless of their background.
The SGI basis itself on Nichiren Daishonin's teachings, which were very "people to people" based. Its a good philosophy to help us out in these hard times we are experiencing.
Thanks!
IMO, the SGI may appear "strange" to some. But if you compare them to any other religious or philosophical organization, I can't see any extreme difference in terms of how they express their desires for people to be good, happy, etc, for example.
How is that much different from a Christian church? Or even the controversial Jehovah Witnesses? In fact, no offense, but the Jehovah's don't believe in celebrating holidays, nor do they believe in blood transfusions. Okay, so maybe I've pointed out aspects of a group that is considered "odd" by even many Americans. But within the context of those of you who are against the SGI here, can u honestly say that the SGI is better/worse? Again no offense, but we in the SGI have nothing against celebrating Christmas (a Christian based religion), we can drink caffeine (something Mormons can't do), and we don't preach against premarital relations, whether you agree or disagree with the importance of certain sexual mores.
So maybe we actually seem too "loose" by comparison, LOL. Other than that, if we look at organizational finances (which who doesn't), the SGI is no different than other religious organizations; if anything, I've never felt coerced into donating money unless I wanted to. Of course there are times when its encouraged, but again people, don't most churches do the same? Actually I've witnessed pastors and such get mad that there isn't enough tithing in their congregations- I've NEVER heard an SGI leader get "mad" at us for not donating enough monies.
-And to the person(s) who live close to SUA in Aliso Viejo, go visit their campus and you'll be surprised & impressed by the diversity, quality of education, and the fact that one doesn't have to even be Buddhist to be a student there!
Soka U doesn't even have seminary type classes- its actually a secular school founded by Pres. Ikeda for all to attend regardless of their background.
The SGI basis itself on Nichiren Daishonin's teachings, which were very "people to people" based. Its a good philosophy to help us out in these hard times we are experiencing.
Thanks!
@latest 'Anonymous' poster:
OK, by spam posting, I can tell that you are desperately promoting your religion without cause and merely stepping on the feet of other religions. Defending for yourself is one thing, but by throwing other religions under the bus(I mean, who gives a s**t over whether you can drink caffeine or not, or celebrate holidays, whatever), you merely destroy your own credibility. Upon touring SUA in Aliso Viejo, I saw that it was indeed a very nice school. However, with a school that is tied to an organization estimated to have over $100 billion in assets, of course they can afford to build more universities, programs, etc. to increase enrollment. And the people who are made up of 'diverse' religions going to the school probably did not know what Soka University was a front for this 'cult' - which is what it is, just look up the definition. I'm just glad I didn't get suckered into this mess like some of you people clearly have. Good luck in life.
P.S. I appreciated this post, yellowpeep, as it fuels my desire to research these organizations and to prevent them from brainwashing people like this.
I joined SGI 2 years ago. They are a lot of well intentioned people who get sucked into this but people who do joined need to realize that SGI is just filled with fluff and psuedo-Buddhism. Hopefully one day my fellow members in the west (USA) will come to realize this.
I've became fed up with the sanctioned Ikeda-centric study materials, the books that I am on occassion will be pressured into buying at the Ikeda indoctrination bookstore and the most slanderous offense anyone could do to assault critical thinking when the answer from "leaders" came in the form of "What Would Ikeda Do?" when a problem or grieveance I harbored was addressed. What worst of all is that people totally gave up the will to think for themselves.
It took me only 2 years to sober up to the facts but tragically my fellow members are too busy riding the sacks of sensei that if he gave them a gimp mask they would fight each other over who gets to penetrated by him first.
Konnichiwa from NY !!
what the Hell is May Contribution? Oh this is where you give money to the SGI so Danny Nagashima can maintain his $250K salary and send his kids to SUA which costs over 40k a year. But if you lie on the application, say you are divorced and both you and your ex practice buddhism and have japanese last names, your kid will get scholarship...Compliments of the May Contribution campaign where struggling SGI members are conditioned to donate money so they can maintain their leadership positions. Sounds like a cult to me!
Meanwhile sensei is riding around with an entourage in supped out limos while your atypical non-payroll SGI member is trying to hustle up some bus fare.
For all you SGI believers please explain this:
How does a guy who claims to be a man of peace have so many enemies?
Why is he such a polarizing figure?
For all of the non-believers: Sensei sincerely keeps you in his prayers.
Before I found SGI, I smoked crack and whored my wheelchair bound crack smoking girlfriend at sleazy motels. In between pimping her crippled ass out to a bunch of perverted freakoziods. The life I was living was very exhaustive and I wanted a way out. One day, one of the johns I whored my girlfriend out to gave me a Nam Myoho Renge Kyo card. At first I thought it some new street term for crack but I had accidently walked into a Buddhist discussion meeting. I was touched by the compassion and as I chanted with my newfound friends. I felt the urge to really turn my life around this time. I kept going to meetings and my faith grew stronger as I building the foundation to be a productive member of society.
The power of this Nam Myoho Renge Kyo has given me the courage to turn my karmatic poison into medicine. Since I found the touching words of Sensei, I have managed to sober up, I have a job and I am taking part time courses at the community college. Since I've built this compassion with SGI, I have repaired the abusive relationship that I had with my girlfriend. She stopped smoking crack to. I've learned to accept her for her disability and came to terms within myself that she is a very beautiful woman. Because she is lame and don't can't feel anything 'down there' doesn't mean that she isn't capable of happiness.
But I stand with Sensei together we stand united for the cause of Kosen-Rufu. I smoked crack, a thieving ass low down dirty scoundrel as they say, I hope that my story touches you and to, like my wife to be, can be touched by this Nam Myoho Renge Kyo and be feel the warmth of Sensei's most earnest efforts. Despite the negativity, one day you shall walk with Sensei as we forge together an era of capable people and be champions of decisive victory. Your day will come when you too can forge a NEW HUMAN REVOLUTION.
I am a 25 year member of the Soka Gakkai. This cult stuff is bullshit. Get over yourselves and look for the real enemies of the people: the Federal Reserve, for instance. Morons.
Pray for DAISAKU IKEDA
Daisaku IKEDA has been gotten serious health trouble since last year. His health condition was disclosed via magazine and YOUTUBE video. I put a link for it. How do you think about it?
So, he is called a dictator of Soka-gakkai and called decoration collector.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xQMl9NsP1o
Soka Gakkai became infamous cult religion in Japan since two decades ago.
To be honest with you all, Sokka Gakkai and SGI (Sokka Gakkai International) seem to have different personalities.
In Japan, Sokka Gakkai is viewed as a creepy cult, kind of like how in the United States many people don't trust "Mormons". (No offense to Mormons or Sokka Gakkai members.)
In the 1990s there were also some unsolved murders ('suicides') linked to Sokka Gakkai because the group allegedly made it very difficult for members to leave. (This was reported by the American magazine TIME in 1995. )
In contrast, SGI has a very cheerful and positive image as a "Buddhist Organization" in the United States and other countries. They are very busy with charity and events promoting Japan and cultural understanding.
So yes, to be perfectly blunt with you all, there is nothing "wrong" with the actual Nichiren Buddhist belief or the Sokka gakkai chanting practices per se, but Sokka Gakkai in Japan has a shady history as an ORGANIZATION. It's just that SGI as it is now (overseas) has no negative publicity because Ikeda puts a LOT of money into peace projects and charity.
Followers in the United States will never know of Sokka Gakkai's negative points (as experienced by Japanese society) unless they study Sokka Gakkai's history or presence in Japan.
[[Last note: I have Japanese Sokka gakkai friends and American SGI friends who are all very friendly people. It's the whole 'cult of personality' thing and the ties of church and state (with the Komeito party and Sokka Gakkai in Japan) that I don't like.]]
Love and respect and all that jazz,
Ken.
---
PS: If you like Conspiracy Theories, I can mention that American magazine TIME has printed some (kinda negative) articles on Sokka Gakkai (in Japan) over the years, but these are no longer available online! Coincidence? Maybe ;)
(example: Sokka Gakkai members trying to gain political power, i.e. religious groups controling government: http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,871107,00.html ))
You are right! You have worked hard on jotting down the essential information. come on.
Soka University in America is an overpriced un-accredited college education that attempts to brainwash its students. They will kick out professors who don't see it their way. They are vile!
The comment was made that: "Soka University in America is an overpriced un-accredited college education that attempts to brainwash its students. They will kick out professors who don't see it their way. They are vile!" Actually, I recently graduate. I attended 4 years there and am not a member of Soka Gakkai. I think people who try to associate this school, which is accredited (and is listed among some of the top US schools now) with SGI without really knowing just looks ignorant. Soka University in America is an awesome school, it's cheaper than many other private schools that offer similar programs and will give anyone an awesome experience. I suggest everyone to check it out and just let everyone practice whatever religion they want. SUA is not a religious school and it's student body is VERY diverse.
Gandhi, MLK... Wow do we not think they were fighting for peace. And they had a multitude of enemies such that they were each killed by one. Poor reasoning my friend. Ikeda is a great man fighting for global change. He lives in a middle class home and is not paid a penny by the SGI. People posting on this site against the SGI are exhibiting emotionally charged , thinly reasoned arguments. You all must live very limited existences fraught with paranoia and fear of that which you don't or refuse to understand. I pity you.
How dare you tell a barefaced lie.
"Ikeda is a great man"? "He lives in a middle class home"?
Ha!
Ikeda's property is 2 trillion yen!
Besides, he has been dead for several years.
You are brainwashed. Poor thing!
It seem to me this article was written by "heard say", I only wish a full research was done first.
It is call a "cult" by some people and countries is because they don't like what SGI stand for. The SGI and its member are at the forefront against violent, the president of SGI has spoken to more world leaders on the matter of peace than I can recalled.
IT IS NOT A CULT.
It is a Value Creating Movement promoting self growth. I can go on, but I suggest you knock on the door and see for yourself, no need to be afraid, it ask nothing from you than an open mind to learn and to grow in yourself.
A cult is about control:
I have been Christian for most of my life and not very happy. I came to Buddhism by way of the SGI. I am a different person. I am happy and want to live. All religions teach and fell their way is the correct teaching. The SGI is no different. The correct teaching is the one that opens your eyes to delusions and that is a personal path. Stating this, I have to write that in the US the SGI is a sect of Buddhism. If the usage of the word sect is unclear.....think of the usage of the word denomination in Christianity.
I have never been held against my will, forced to remove myself from my family, nor restricted from attending church with my family. As for the publication, they are for study. I have not been brainwashed. I have been supported by members to overcome my fight with depression from the top down and to live a that gives back to this world. The law of cause and effect is the most noble teaching of Shakymuni Buddha. It is this law that guides my life and all Buddhist. The chant Namu or Nam Myoho Renge Kyo embodies this belief for Nicherin Buddhist. A cult is about control. The SGI is about freedom, happiness of all mankind and peace throughout the world.
May all find happiness.....then we will have peace.
As a member of nearly thirty years I will always chant. I will not attend meetings anymore because when I offered criticism of the SGI being for World Peace in a country that promotes only War, I was attacked verbally by members and accused of "going around heavily armed." Which is bizarre at best as I own no weapons. I have been abandoned by "leaders" who claim to be altruistic, but act for their own benefit only, and "leaders" appear to be appointed according to their material wealth, rather than knowledge of Buddhism or wisdom or compassion. I wish I had never joined and encourage people just to chant and leave the organization behind, as it has me. I fear no reprisal and live with another SGI member although I have not attended a meeting in over a year, nor do I plan to attend any soon.
what is buddhism? buddhism is not by any mean a religion but in fact a belief, the way of life as some ppl put it.. it teaches followers to respect life itself, respect ourselves.. it doesnt demand blind faith from its followers, in fact we can choose to pray whenever we feel like it.. some pray everyday out of respect.. doesnt force us to donate on term basis.. for that, even when there is a horde of SGI ppl ask me to join them, i just state that i prefer the real buddhism.. not some wannabe mojo who claims that buddhist should do the opposite of what the real buddhism has taught me.. we seek advice from monks whom we see them as our mentors bcos they are wise.. they have given up thier old lives, old ways, riches and materials.. thats why they see things from a different point of view.. we dont seek advice from some guy who claims to be our mentor and go about deciding every movement we make.. thats just pure cow dung.. we dont have to chant everyday like we r high on crack.. chanting faster and faster for no apparent reason.. a chant should be slow and relaxing.. as for politics.. u dont see any theraveda monks in a monkey suit giving out speeches like «if elected, i promise to...» do you? why am i saying this? i just dont like buddhism to be used and being given a bad impression at.. the real buddhism is peace and the way of life.. not blind faith, money making and politics being rolled into one..
Ｈi there!
I'm japanes. and I have some trouble about sokka gakki.
becuse of their high_pressure Religious invitation.
They always perform stalking.and Personal investigation is conducted.Ｉ hate that.I don't care what a religon people have.but I'm not interested in sokka gakki.I'm interested in the other things.
So I said them No,and stop doing like that!
But they Never stop.this is a crime.
But police can't solve us.Because we have no regulation of cults
So many people killed by their self because of their harass.
I just want sokka gakkai top stalking and leave me alone
ty for taking the time to write this article. I have a former friend of 30y who joined SGI only a few years into our friendship. She was a fully employed professional doing some volunteering on the side with a loving fiancée. Currently she's been unemployed for years, her loving fiancée is gone, she does no volunteering. Her life is mainly comprised of converting people to SGI Buddhism and chanting for material gain--i.e. that's not Buddhism. She is also dismissive of other religions, again, that's not Buddhism. SGI is a cult--they will take your money, brainwash you and steal your dignity as you are no longer able to employ rationality in your thinking. My friend believes if you don't get something you chant for you haven't chanted hard enough and if you do get it, then it was because you chanted hard enough. In other words, chanting never fails if done properly. So how can you test that? Stay away from SGI.
You will only know what Mr Ikeda is like when you meet him personally - however, there is also the option of reading one of his essays about human values in a changing world - you will learn nothing from those who claim they have been brainwashed because they haven't the intelligence to think for themselves in the first place - and as for getting no results from chanting and prayers - do you expect a sturdy oak tree to grow in five minutes ?
I read the following quote of Sensei which prompted me to write this letter – “Faced with stress, too many people feel they have nowhere to turn to, that they don't have access to the kind of friendships or communities where they can easily and openly share their problems and worries.”
Herein, I would like to share my experiences with the BSG leadership. Do please note that I have been a member of Bharat Soka Gakai (BSG) over the past 6-7 years. In 2013, I was approached by a ‘leader’ with a request to help her and her husband to straighten their family’s books of accounts that were in a complete mess. I decided to offer my help through my knowledge, experience and my contacts. I think I did give her and her family a sense of comfort. I showed them the correct way ahead for straightening their books and tax files, delineated the do’s and don’ts for proper maintenance of their books, and also introduced them to a Chartered Accountant to help clear their existing mess. In short, I brought them to a stage when they felt self-sufficient regarding their tax matters. The ‘leader’ would oft ask for my advice on financial matters; I not only gave her the advice, I also resolved most of her financial issues including getting her jewellery valuation done by a government-approved valuer. As soon as her work with me was over, the ‘leader’ disassociated from me – probably because my usefulness was over in her judgement. The ‘leader’ emotionally manipulated me and used me emotionally, physically, financially, intellectually and then dropped me. But she is a leader; perhaps (or certainly not) entitled to do it! Apart from financial matters, she approached me for help on for several other issues – such as helping her make a patio, refurbishment of her apartment, writing speeches for her, going shopping to buy her furniture, personal matters … the list is endless. She kept on giving me the impression that these are part of my kosen rufu activities. She even had financial dealings with me on a number of occasions. She expected me to give her gifts, and I did give her many gifts. She asked me for fees for a few jobs done for me – and she said she wanted it in kind and/or cash. I was not clear about the rules in BSG as regards gifts, financial dealings with members, but she knew them! But she is a leader; perhaps entitled to take advantage of the loopholes. There are many other things she did which are against the BSG guidelines but it may not be possible to mention all. As I see it, while I continued to help her as my kosen rufu efforts, she conveniently took advantage of my sincerity. She used me and used me till she realized that she did not need my services anymore. Is this the kind of leader BSG wants? What legacy is she leaving for the next generation of BSG? She is the most selfish person I have ever met, and believe me, I have met many people in these 52 years. And yet, she remains a BSG leader! My intention is not to dishonour her. My intention is just to bring to your notice about such wrongdoings. I have been deeply disturbed with being in the same organization as this ‘leader’. All this has harmed me beyond explanation – Am vexed at having wasted my resources, Am tormented with the negativities thrown at me, Am apprehensive on my own spiritual growth!
Quitting BSG seems to be the only option left for me (at least at this moment) – I appear to have no choice, or do I?
One thing is be critical, which is good, and other thing is be hypocrite. Your article, excuse me for to say it, goes on the border between these two things.
Some examples:
When you intrigue about the possibility that SGI were stolen weapons in France, you not only don't have proof but also don't introduce the context: SGI is famous for his fight against atomic weapons. So, probably this imaginary steal was some kind of sabotage. Which is a way to protest.
When you call "weird" the SGI ambient because there are colours flags, you don't give reason to consider "weird" this. Let me ask: nobody have seen never flags when is near than an important center of activities? This is common (you will see it in embassies, shoppings, cultural centers, etc. ). But you use insidiously the word "weird" and manipulates the reader's mind.
These are just a couple of examples. But, if you think I'm a SGI member, let me say: no, I was but now I'm outside. And I'm critical too. But these kind of criticals not help to anything. The critic must be honest and basis in real things to be useful.
Personally I would like to say that we r not followers of SGI.....we r followers of nichiren Buddhism....we r just a member of SGI like other sects of Buddhism
Let's say SGI is not good.....can anyone prove if nichiren Buddhism has not given results in our daily routines? Stop blaming SGI n if u have so much problem then write a letter to united nations....let the members of united nations decide what is good and bad for the world.....
Lol you are literally insane!!! Oh my days - what on earth gave you issues with the SGI?! I have been a member since day 1 I came in to contact with chanting - 11 years ago , nothing but people striving to be happy based on realising that EVERYONE - including you (I know - shocking) has an eternal , enlightened quality hidden in their life - that you can bring to the surface by chanting ... Its about GENUINE friendship - and TRUST ! No one tells me to continue - I watch my potential come out and my friends lives develop and its truly amazing !! This article is really just a crazy rant grasping at thin air and lies - just to drag down the name of the SGI - find your self something more productive to do for goodness sake!!
Wondering if you ever found those - aweful, terrifying cult photos - all those smiles and conversations and friends chanting and encouraging each other-you must be really frightened! Hahahaha - this post is such a joke. I've been a member for 11 years - best thing I ever could do with my life without any exception, I'm strong, confident , happy and know I can turn any problem in to a benefit - I turned my intense anxiety issues in to abilities as a therapist and creativity as an artist , working with autistic people ... Please go and talk TO people and ask questions rather than make meaningless judgements..
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My daughter 15 years old was attacked evil when I am burning all my daughter’s things and book and statue from sukagakkai religion and now the evil attackimg my daughter and I saw how my daughter suffered upon burning the things ｆｒｏｍ ｓｕｋａｇａｋｋａｉ ｒｅｌｉｇｉｏｎ
Ｔｈｉｓ ｒｅｌｉｇｉｏｎ ｉｓ ｈａｖｉｎｇ ｅｖｉｌ ｐｏｗｅｒ ｂｅ ｃａｒｅｆｕｌ ｔｏ ｎｏｔ ｊｏｉｎ ．
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