Documents for SGI member
The Meaning of the Name "Shin'ichi Yamamoto"
"Shin'ichi Yamamoto" is a special name — one that carries profound meaning for members of the Soka Gakkai.
He is the central figure in the novel The Human Revolution, and at the same time, the pen name of SGI President Ikeda himself.
In that sense, "Shin'ichi Yamamoto" is synonymous with President Ikeda.
At one time, President Ikeda said, "Compassion is imagination."
Indeed, a person’s inner feelings are invisible to the eye.
Yet, when we truly care, we can imagine what kind of life another person is living, and what situation they are facing.
People normally try to understand others through what they see and hear.
But imagination—when guided by empathy—becomes the act of caring itself.
It arises from the wish for another’s happiness.
A person who says, "I don't care what happens to them," cannot be called compassionate.
Everything begins from one’s ichinen—one's inner determination.
To wish for another's happiness, to extend one’s heart toward others—this is imagination, and this is compassion, in the life of a true practitioner of Buddhism.
It is true that it is not easy to imagine what kind of life each member has lived.
Some are surely still confronting immense hardships today.
To face life, to confront one’s own struggles—this is why the human figure of Shin'ichi Yamamoto was portrayed in The Human Revolution.
Through his example, we learn how a person should live, and through his essays and guidance, we receive encouragement and strength.
That is why the name "Shin'ichi Yamamoto" holds such a deep and special meaning for sincere members striving to live their lives with integrity.
In recent years, however, many have begun to declare, "I am Shin'ichi Yamamoto."
This trend is particularly noticeable among SGI members overseas.
There is nothing wrong with expressing such determination or taking up challenges with that spirit.
It is even admirable when young members act with that kind of resolve.
Yet, I wish to share one small concern.
First, let us look squarely at the present state of our organization.
Were members in each country ever informed about Ikeda Sensei's true state of health?
In Japan, we were long told that “President Ikeda is in good health.”
Then, one day, without warning, we were suddenly informed only that he had already passed away.
When, then, was he last truly well? Many questions remain unanswered.
Next, we must consider the changes to the organization's doctrine.
Nichiren Daishonin is no longer upheld as the Original Buddha, and the concept of "the oneness of person and Law" has been removed.
The Doctrinal Essentials published in 2023 list President Ikeda as "supervising editor."
But did he truly instruct, "Change the doctrine"?
The current teachings differ entirely from the spirit of The Wisdom of the Lotus Sutra.
Can we really believe that President Ikeda approved such revisions? This, too, is deeply questionable.
Without ever being informed of the President's condition, and without consultation, the doctrine was altered.
Does this not raise concern among you, or those around you?
Can one who neither knows nor seeks to know truly be called a disciple?
And can such a person sincerely say, "I am Shin'ichi Yamamoto"?
For years, leaders may have used the President's name to manipulate members.
If members are being deceived or exploited, Shin'ichi Yamamoto would never allow it.
He would say:
"Young people, raise your voices!"
"Reveal the truth!"
"Fight for justice!"
Is that not what Shin’ichi Yamamoto would declare?
Anyone may say, "I am Shin'ichi Yamamoto."
But if one's conduct fails to embody his spirit, that declaration is hollow.
It bears no resemblance to the genuine article—it is a mere imitation.
If one claims that name, one must at least strive to approach his example.
Otherwise, it is nothing more than a kind of spiritual "costume play."
For those who treasure the oneness of mentor and disciple, such superficial displays are disheartening.
Because the name is sacred, many will naturally feel discomfort when they see it used in a way that lacks authenticity.
The attitude of "as long as I am fine, that's enough" has no place in faith.
A true believer in the Mystic Law must live with compassion.
And one who calls themselves Shin’ichi Yamamoto must have the resolve to become a true disciple.
As a member in Japan, I would like to ask my fellow members abroad:
Why do you invite Japanese leaders who belittle President Ikeda to your meetings, while calling yourselves Shin'ichi Yamamoto?
Why do you remain silent when the teachings that President Ikeda expounded are being betrayed?
We do not seek false Shin'ichis.
We welcome the appearance of the true Shin'ichi Yamamoto.
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