From: Nichiren Buddhist Community Date: April 1 Subject: April 1st, 2024 NBC Newsletter
The Sun and the Moon
On Monday, April 8, 2024, the community of RIT will have an incredible view of the upcoming total solar eclipse. The sun will be hidden between 3:15 to 3:30 pm, immersing us in the darkness of the moon’s shadow. We will not be in the path of a total solar eclipse again until 2044.
The sun and the moon are sister deities named Nitten (the sun) and Gatten (the moon). On Monday, April 1st we gather in the Jones Chapel to closely examine the siblings and their identifying iconography. Nitten and Gatten are seen to be almost identical as they stand side by side. Some differences are the disks they hold and the animals they are associated with.
In addition to Nitten and Gatten we will also look at Sanmen Daikokuten, who is invoked for the April omamori. Sanmen Daikokuten comprises three of the deities that make up the Seven Lucky Gods.
Just a reminder, we will not meet on Monday, April 8. Please enjoy the eclipse and remember to appreciate Nitten and Gatten!
Gassho,
Ryumon
First of the month omamori
It is the first of the month and the time to bring back omamori you have received from the Nichiren Buddhist Community group for ceremonial cremation.
Sanmen Daikokuten
Also at this time, we offer the new omamori for the month. This month’s invocation is for good fortune such as wealth and luck.
We will offer a weekly talk on the Buddha's teaching, followed by open discussion and daily liturgical service (which includes elements of meditation and contemplation).
You are free to join us for the entire Buddhist practice above or simply for community in observation.
Contact nbc@rit.edu for any questions and/or concerns.
