Faith is deepened through practice, while the experiences gained through practice lead to strengthened conviction. This could be described as the ongoing effort to orient one’s heart toward the ideal of Buddhahood—the continual unfolding of one’s inherent potential for good, the ability to transform any negative circumstance into a source of growth and benefit, and a life dedicated to helping others do the same.

Soka Gakkai members study the teachings of Nichiren in order to deepen their understanding of the principles of Buddhism. These writings (referred to as the Gosho, literally “honorable writings”) comprise letters he wrote to his disciples as well as treatises and doctrinal interpretations. Study of these writings strengthens faith and conviction, which finds expression in practice.