The Odaimoku is the mantra, "Namu Myoho Renge Kyo." It is an invocation by the 13th century Priest Nichiren. It means, "I devote and take refuge in the teachings of the Sutra of the Lotus Flower of the Wondrous Dharma." As successors to Nichiren, RK also chant the Odaimoku.
We begin and conclude events, ceremonies, and sutra recitations with the chanting of the Odaimoku.
Namu comes from the Sanskrit word namas, which means "taking refuge in" or "entrusting our whole body and soul to." Myoho Renge Kyo means "the Sutra of the Lotus Flower of the Wondrous Dharma."
"Namu Myoho Renge Kyo" expresses recognition and devotion to the Buddha's teachings. It is also devotion to put its truth into practice. It is a vow to spare no effort in working for the happiness of all people, not just our own. As we chant it, we place our palms together in reverence and pay homage to embody this sense of devotion fully.
By chanting the "Namu Myoho Renge Kyo," we vow to live the bodhisattva way and work for enlightenment for all. We continually learn and help others discover their buddha nature by letting our buddha nature shine in all that we do.