Kevin asked:

What were the four corners that the Buddha said to respect instead of the four directions?

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The terms "four corners" and "four directions" can be found in various mystical traditions. However
they have not always the same meaning.

The question may refer to the teaching of the Japanese master Nichiren Daishonin (1222-1282) — a
monk honoured today by the controversial new religious movement Soka Gakkai — and the
symbolism of the mandala Gohonzon. (A mandala is a diagram or a painting that is contemplated
during meditation. Each mandala represents the Universe).

According to Soka Gakkai's interpretation of the Gohonzon, in the four corners are large characters
who represent the Four Heavenly Kings. They are believed to protect the community from the four
directions of north, east, west and south and support the practice throughout the universe of those
who aspire to become Buddhas. (SGI New Century series, "Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism", "The
Gohonzon" (Part 2), "The Essential Content of the Gohonzon").

Jean Nakos