“Oko” generally means a ritual assembly to recite sutras, to offer prayers, and to preach the teachings of Buddhism in order to praise a particular Buddha or object of worship. In Nichiren Shoshu, we conduct Oko ceremony to repay our debt of gratitude for the profound benefit of the Three Treasures: Nichiren Daishonin (the Buddha), the Dai-Gohonzon (the Law), and Nikko Shonin (the Priesthood).
The ceremony begins with an offering of traditional foods to the Three Treasures (Kenzen) and is then followed by the recitation of the Hoben and Juryo chapters of the Lotus Sutra. After chanting Daimoku and offering the silent prayers, the Chief Priest gives a lecture on True Buddhism.
Nichiren Daishonin teaches:
“No matter what, be close to the priest who knows the heart of the Lotus Sutra, keep learning from him the truth of Buddhism and continue you journey of faith”.
We are able to establish unshakable and strong faith only by going to the Oko ceremony and listening to the priest’s lecture. Therefore, it is important for you and your family to go to the Oko ceremony every month.