The Lotus Sutra is the holy scripture of which tradition?

• A. Zen Buddhism
• B. Nichiren Buddhism
• C. Theravada Buddhism
• D. Pure Land Buddhism

Answer: (B)

The Lotus Sutra is the central scripture for Nichiren Buddhism. In this tradition, the sutra is regarded as the ultimate teaching of the Buddha, revealing that all beings possess buddha-nature and that enlightenment is universally accessible. Practitioners commonly chant Nam Myōhō Renge Kyō as a direct expression of devotion to the Lotus Sutra and as a practical method to reveal one’s inherent enlightenment. This emphasis on the Lotus Sutra as the definitive teaching distinguishes Nichiren from other traditions: Zen centers its practice on experiential realization and meditation (often without a single scriptural focus), Theravada relies on the Pali Canon as its primary scriptures, and Pure Land centers on the vows of Amitābha and the practice of recitation or contemplation of his name, rather than the Lotus Sutra.