Nichiren Daishonin states in the gosho, "On Itai Dōshin" ("Itai Dōshin-ji"),
Even an individual who is at cross-purposes with himself will never succeed, due to his conflicted mind. Yet, even 100 or 1,000 people certainly can accomplish their goals if they become single-minded. Though numerous, the Japanese people will find it difficult to accomplish anything, because they are in dōtai-ishin. In contrast, I believe that even though Nichiren and his followers are few in number, because they act in itai-dōshin, they will accomplish their great mission of propagating the Lotus Sutra.
(Gosho, p. 1389)
This gosho is dated sixth day of the eighth month. The year is not given and was most likely written in between the first year of Kenji (1275) and the third year of Kō'an (1280). This letter was given to lay priest Takahashi, whose wife was aunt to the second High Priest Nikkō Shonin.
In this letter, the Daishonin references the story of King Chou of Yin and King Wu of Chou. King Wu only had a force of 800 feudal lords, while King Chou had a large force of 700,000 cavalry men. Despite his tiny numbers in comparison, King Wu prevailed in this battle because of perfect unity amongst his army, while King Chou was defeated due to disunity.
The great aspiration of the Nichiren Daishonin is achievement of Kosen-rufu and the establishment of the Buddha Land. This may seem like a very daunting and almost impossible goal. But when such feelings arise it is important to remember the Daishonin's golden words about unity, and realize that through our strong faith in the Dai-Gohonzon, our consistent practice, and our deep compassion that even the greatest goals such as Kosen-rufu can be realized. Thus, regarding this, the Daishonin states in "On the Heritage of the Ultimate Law of Life and Death" ("Shōji ichidaiji kechimyaku-shō"),
Thus, there should be solid unity amongst Hokkeko believers and unity between priesthood and laity. We should never judge or degrade our fellow Hokkeko members, and always strive to help each other out in order to establish a strong spirit of unity. In order to develop our faith and practice and not develop arrogant and distorted views on Buddhism, we should strive to follow the High Priest's guidance, based on the master-disciple relationship. High Priest Nichinyo Shonin states:All disciples and believers of Nichiren should chant Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo with the spirit of many in body, one in mind (itai dōshin), overcoming all differences among themselves, just like fish being inseparable from the water in which they swim. This is called the Heritage of the ultimate Law of life and death. This is also what Nichiren is trying to propagate now in the Latter Day of the Law. When you are so united, even the great aspiration for kosen-rufu can be fulfilled without fail.
(Gosho, p. 514)
In striving to accomplish the solid unity of different bodies but one mind, it is essential for each one of us to uphold the achievement of kosen-rufu as our personal mission and to thoroughly challenge ourselves, based on our determination to never regress or slacken in our faith. We must follow the Daishonin’s sacred instructions precisely, embracing the attitude of “single mindedly yearning to see the Buddha, they do not begrudge their lives.” Through this challenge to achieve kosen-rufu, in total unity of one mind, we can create true solidarity. Herein lies the essential key to accomplish our designated objectives and to defeat the obstacles and devils.
(Goshinan-shu, No. 14, p. 60)
Thus, I hope we can all strengthen our practice and deepen our faith and strive to propagate the true Law. I sincerely pray for the peace and happiness of everyone on this forum and for your goold health during these times.
Thank you!
Unity Between Priesthood and Laity - During Ushitora Gongyo, the High Priest takes his seat on the Mokushiza (Nichimoku Shonin's seat) facing east, while priests and lay believers face north