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

In chapter 20 of the Lotus Sutra, Shakyamuni Buddha narrates the story of Bodhisattva Never Disrespectful, who lived during the age of King of Majestic Voices Buddha. Despite not spending his time learning and studying the sutras, Bodhisattva Never Disrespectful treated everyone he met with the utmost respect by bowing to them and giving praise and verbal affirmation of their ability to attain Buddhahood. As a result of his constant spirit of reverence, he received the teaching of the Lotus Sutra from the sky when he was about to pass away, which was the key to his swift attainment of Buddhahood.

The story of Bodhisattva Never Disrespectful serves as a reminder that the state of Buddhahood is inherent in every individual. By affirming and recognizing the potential of people to attain Buddhahood, one has planted the seed to achieving Supreme Perfect Enlightenment within the depth of his or her life. Bodhisattva Never Disrespectful’s behavior and character serves as an example of how treating others with respect and reverence can have a profound impact on their lives and their journey towards enlightenment.

However, the Law of Cause and Effect is strict, and any sins or negative karma committed will have to be cleansed and purified in the state of Hell. Those who mistreated Bodhisattva Never Disrespectful went through suffering in the state of Hell for a thousand kalpas without ever having the opportunity to encounter a Buddha. Despite this, the Buddha’s compassion is unfailing, and even former detractors can be led to enlightenment through the Lotus Sutra.

Shakyamuni Buddha reveals that he himself was Bodhisattva Never Disrespectful in his former life. Those who previously treated him contemptuously were now his disciples in the assembly. This serves as a reminder that one’s actions and behavior have a significant impact on the lives of others, and that even the most unlikely individuals can become great teachers and leaders.

In section 2 of the chapter, Shakyamuni Buddha speaks in poetic stanzas to summarize the history of Bodhisattva Never Disrespectful. This poetic summary serves as a beautiful and powerful tribute to Bodhisattva Never Disrespectful’s character and behavior, and serves as a reminder of the importance of treating others with respect and reverence.

In conclusion, the story of Bodhisattva Never Disrespectful serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing and affirming the potential for enlightenment in every individual. By treating others with respect and reverence, we can have a profound impact on their lives and their journey towards enlightenment. The power of the Lotus Sutra in attaining Buddhahood cannot be overstated, and Shakyamuni Buddha urges his disciples to read, embrace, and expound the Lotus Sutra to lead themselves and others to enlightenment.