A Buddhist Approach to Peace

The book is organized around the movement from Buddhist doctrine to practical peace engagement. The opening section, “Buddhism: The Teaching of Peace,” presents the Buddha as a model of compassion and nonviolence, using scriptural narratives to show that peace requires the overcoming of revenge, hatred, and self-centeredness. The following section, “The Peace Teaching of the Lotus Sutra,” explains the Lotus Sutra’s worldview, including universal dignity, the possibility of Buddhahood for all beings, the value of religious perseverance, and the ideal of saving the living. The third section, “Peace Through Religious Cooperation,” broadens the discussion from Buddhist teaching to interfaith collaboration, arguing that religions must work together to build peace rather than remain divided by doctrine or institution. “Religion and World Peace” records Niwano’s reflections on major encounters, including Vatican impressions, cooperation with Unitarians, and participation in world conferences on religion and peace. “On the Road to Peace” presents concrete experiences and lessons from peace activism, including the rejection of ideology, overcoming nationalism, and moving beyond differences. The final section, “A Promising Future,” turns toward practical hope, discussing cooperation among nations, religious leaders, and ordinary people, while emphasizing donation, shared responsibility, and sustained commitment to peace as a living Buddhist practice.