shōju ［摂受］ (): A method of expounding Buddhism in which one gradually leads another to the correct teaching according to that person’s capacity and without refuting his or her attachment to mistaken views. The term is used in contrast with shakubuku, or directly awakening another to the correct teaching by refuting that person’s mistaken views. These two methods are explained in the Shrīmālā Sutra, Great Concentration and Insight, and elsewhere. The shōju method was generally employed in the Former Day and Middle Day of the Law, but is also used in the Latter Day among those who have little or no knowledge of, or no prejudices against, Buddhism. In his 1272 treatise The Opening of the Eyes, Nichiren states: “When the country is full of evil people without wisdom, then shōju is the primary method to be applied, as described in the ‘Peaceful Practices’ chapter [of the Lotus Sutra]. But at a time when there are many people of perverse views who slander the Law, then shakubuku should come first, as described in the ‘Never Disparaging’ chapter [of the sutra]” (285). Here “evil people without wisdom” means people who are ignorant of the Buddhist teachings. “Evil” implies the unhappiness of not acquiring roots of goodness.