The Philosophy and Expression of Life Through Nichiren, Jung, and My Near-Death Experience

Introduction

In the realm of humanity's spiritual exploration, many themes transcend cultures and eras. Nichiren Buddhism and Carl Jung’s psychology, while originating from seemingly different philosophical backgrounds, share similarities in their understanding of the collective unconscious, mandalas, and the deep layers of the psyche. My photographic expression has evolved, resonating deeply with these ideas, particularly following a near-death experience. In this essay, I will draw parallels between the thoughts of Nichiren and Jung and my own creative work, based on my near-death experience, to approach the truth of life.

The Collective Unconscious and the Theory of Nine Consciousnesses

Jung’s collective unconscious refers to a layer of unconsciousness that includes a universal system of symbols beyond individual experiences, with archetypes representing ancient knowledge and intuition shared by humanity at its core. This structure resonates with the "Amala-consciousness" in Nichiren Buddhism’s theory of Nine Consciousnesses. The Nine Consciousnesses extend beyond the surface-level five senses (the functioning of sensory organs) and present the "Amala-consciousness" as the purity of life itself, located deep within the mind. This Amala-consciousness is the realm of fundamental awakening and corresponds with Jung's archetypes in the collective unconscious.

My own near-death experience was a moment where I intuitively felt this deep unconscious structure. When life crossed the boundary of death, I experienced a sense of "continuity" and "light" at the depths of my consciousness. This was a moment when I touched the world of universal knowledge spoken of through Jung’s archetypes and the purity of the Amala-consciousness as taught by Nichiren. This experience has profoundly influenced my creative work, with my photographs now serving as expressions of life’s deeper layers.

Jung’s Mandala and Nichiren’s Mandala Gohonzon

Jung used the mandala as a symbol for dialogue with the unconscious, visually representing the process of reaching the center of the individual’s psyche. The mandala is understood as a means to restore spiritual integration and balance, playing an important role in Jungian psychotherapy. In contrast, Nichiren’s Mandala Gohonzon inscribes the central teaching of the Lotus Sutra, "Nam-myoho-renge-kyo," serving as a symbolic tool for uniting with the ultimate truth of the universe.

During my near-death experience, I also encountered mandala-like visual images. Light took on countless forms, flowing in a way that revealed the harmony between life and the cosmic order. This experience became the foundation of my creative work, leading me to consciously incorporate mandala-like structures in my photography. Like Jung and Nichiren, I too express the truth at the depths of life through the mandala.

Theories of Salvation in Nichiren Buddhism and Jungian Psychology

Nichiren Buddhism emphasizes drawing out one’s Buddha nature through chanting and developing the strength to overcome suffering. The process of realizing one’s inner truth and uniting with Buddha nature parallels Jung’s process of self-realization. In Jungian psychology, facing archetypes in the unconscious and achieving self-integration leads to spiritual salvation. Both explore the connection to an existence beyond the self and the search for salvation from within.

Through my own near-death experience, I also felt a connection to an existence beyond my limits, and since then, I have sought salvation through my creative work. By taking photographs, I continue to touch the infinite potential within myself and the archetypes of the unconscious, seeking harmony between my inner world and the external world. The ideas of Nichiren and Jung are deeply rooted in my creative process, providing my work with a universal force.

Conclusion

Despite the differences in era and culture, Nichiren and Jung arrived at similar ideas regarding the deep structure of life. The collective unconscious in Jung’s thought, the theory of Nine Consciousnesses in Nichiren’s, and the symbol of the mandala all indicate the process of spiritual growth and connection to an existence beyond the self. My own near-death experience was also an encounter with this universal truth, and my photography reflects the ongoing exploration of life’s deep layers.

The thoughts of Nichiren, Jung, and my own creative work resonate in their pursuit of truth beyond individual consciousness, positioning them as part of humanity’s shared spiritual exploration. Through my photography, I continue to explore the essence of life and fundamental questions about human existence, a mission I feel deeply compelled to pursue.

Photography Exhibition Information:
Dates: Sep. 26, 2024 – Oct. 29, 2024  
Venue: Liike
(1-35-5-2F, Ebisu Nishi, Shibuya-ku)  
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM  
Artist in Gallery: October 1, 14, 15, 22, 29  

Takaaki Sano 佐野貴明 | Japanese art photographer based in Tokyo