Kanjin in Chinese

Kanjin occurs as we focus intently chanting to the Gohonzon. Kanjin commonly translates as "observing one’s mind" or "observing one’s mind/life/circumstance and perceiving Buddha[s] therein."

The "kan" [kuan in Chinese] of Kanjin is composed of four more elemental characters. On the right is a picture of an eye with legs. It means "to gaze upon," "to examine," "to appear [before the eyes]," and "to see".

On the left is the stem of a plant forcing its way to the surface, indicating strength of purpose, expansion of mental capacity, power, talents, endowments, and gifts.

The "jin" of Kanjin is "the heart/mind/life." The heart directs the mind; they are the same thing. How the heart/mind perceives determines life.

To enable an expand of awareness (kan) of our mind/life/capacity/talents/endowments/ and gifts [Buddha nature] (jin), we have the perfect object -- the Great Mandala inscribed for all living beings -- the Gohonzon.