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

In Chapter 6 of the Lotus Sutra,
Shakyamuni Buddha makes it clear,
That even his disciples can be,
A Buddha with a name so serene.

Maha-Kashyapa is first to know,
That he’ll be Resplendent Tathagata,
In Brilliant Virtue’s land he’ll grow,
With a lifespan of twelve kalpas show.

The True Law will last for twenty more,
His Pseudo Law the same, that’s the score,
Maudgalyayana, Subhuti, and Maha-Katyayana,
Ask for their own prophecies, a desire upon them.

For Subhuti, Shakyamuni said,
You’ll be Eminent Form Tathagata,
In Jewels Arise, with a lifespan of twelve,
True and Pseudo Laws will last, as well.

For Maha-Katyayana, Golden Light,
Jambunada Tathagata, what a sight!
His lifespan of twelve kalpas bright,
True and Pseudo Laws will shine so bright.

Last but not least, Maha-Maudgalyayana,
Sandalwood Fragrance, Tamalapatra Tathagata,
In Joy of the Mind, he’ll be a Buddha,
With a lifespan of twenty-four, his True Law, so sturdy.

These prophecies, in the Lotus Sutra,
Are teachings of hope, of guidance and armor,
For all to attain enlightenment, no matter what was before,
And inspire us to continue on the path, forevermore.