Mr. Altig’s Overview of the Wonderful Dharma of the Lotus Sutra

Gandharvas are celestial beings in Hindu and Buddhist mythology. They are usually depicted as musicians, dancers and celestial attendants of the god Indra and are known for their beauty and musical talents. They are also believed to be powerful protectors of the Buddhist teachings and practitioners.

The Four Gandharva Kings mentioned in the first chapter of the Lotus Sutra are celestial beings known as Gandharvas, who are said to possess supernatural powers and are protectors of the Buddhist teachings and practitioners. They are known to have a close relationship with the Buddha and are considered as powerful allies in spreading the Buddhist teachings.

Gandharva King Joy: He is associated with joy and is believed to help practitioners find happiness and contentment in their practice.

Gandharva King Joyful Music: He is associated with joyful music and is believed to help practitioners develop a deeper understanding of the teachings through music and sound.

Gandharva King Lovely: He is associated with loveliness and is believed to help practitioners develop a deeper appreciation for the beauty of the teachings.

Gandharva King Lovely Music: He is associated with lovely music and is believed to help practitioners find joy and inspiration in their practice through music and sound.

In summary, the Four Gandharva Kings are celestial beings mentioned in the Lotus Sutra, who are believed to have a close relationship with the Buddha and are considered as powerful allies in spreading the Buddhist teachings. They are not commonly known figures in Buddhism and their role is not well defined in the text. They are known for their beauty and musical talents and believed to be powerful protectors of the Buddhist teachings and practitioners.