But during those tempestuous periods, there were some top Gakkai leaders who not only refused to fight for what is right but actually joined forces with those who were plotting my downfall.

I stepped down from my post as third president of the Soka Gakkai (on April 24, 1979), during the first priesthood incident. I have also withstood storms of religious persecution stirred up by government authorities.

The majority of our members were pained by these events, and they spoke out in my support and prayed for my victory. But during those tempestuous periods, there were some top Gakkai leaders who not only refused to fight for what is right but actually joined forces with those who were plotting my downfall.

I was reminded of my mentor’s statement that it is the enemies within our organisation that we should fear most. The youth division must never forget these important lessons of history. Never allow this to ever happen again. A true disciple rigorously defends the mentor when he’s fighting against great persecution.

“Share your thoughts and celebrate the life of our beloved mentor by contributing a eulogy on the site https://daisakuikedalegacy.org/wordpress/eulogy. Your words will forever cherish his memory.”