Dominating tradition, Soka Gakkai and the creation of history

grantor: University of TorontoSince the foundation of the So¢ka Gakkai, its history and tradition have been rewritten by its second and third presidents, Toda Josei and Ikeda Daisaku. This historical revision has also included the rewriting of the history of Nichiren Sho¢shu¢, the Buddhist group from which the So¢ka Gakkai originated. In doing so, they have defined a world-view for millions of So¢ka Gakkai adherents. This study addresses the reasons why these leaders defined and redefined their tradition, and the effect constant redefinition of key concepts and beliefs within the So¢ka Gakkai has had on the organization and its membership. This will illustrate the So¢ka Gakkai tradition as one of justification of new religious activity as sanctioned by tradition, and rationalization of the personal power of the postwar presidents in relation to the lineage from which it claims to be derived.M.A