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

In ancient times, a text was scribed
To help those seeking peace inside
The Lotus Sutra, revered and old
In Mahayana, its teachings told

Chapter 17, “Distinctions in Merits”
Explains the benefits, no demerits
Of understanding the Buddha’s fate
Of the eternal lifespan, so great

Shakyamuni tells Ajita then
Benefits of hearing about when
The Buddha lived, that boundless grace
Can lead to enlightenment’s embrace

Receiving dharanis, spiritual tools
Abiding in non-regression’s rules
The ability to preach with joy
And Buddhahood, for each girl and boy

The second section speaks of faith
That those who respond, will attain with grace
Buddhahood in their future lives
Boundless benefits, as faith derives

Those who believe surpass in merit
Those who practice for eons, so explicit
Faith, Shakyamuni tells us, is key
To future lives and our destiny

Section three, with faith and deep thought
Brings the understanding we have sought
Those who embrace, the Tathagata on their head
Have already built pagodas, so it’s said

Reading, reciting, embracing the Sutra
Brings blessings infinite, like Buddha
Those who practice, foremost in virtue and love
Infinite blessings from below and above

In conclusion, the Lotus Sutra’s teachings
Remain essential for enlightenment’s reaching
Faith, belief, and understanding profound
Bring boundless benefits, like jewels around

Embracing the eternal lifespan of the Buddha
Is the path towards enlightenment, forever to go
Chapter 17 of the Lotus Sutra, a reminder
Of the Buddha’s teachings, an ever-burning ember.