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

The Buddha spoke, “Those who embrace,
The name of Bodhisattva’s grace,
Their blessings will be just the same,
As those who rarely praise his name.

For millions of kalpas on end,
Their blessings will not reach their end.
The blessings, merits, benefits,
Immeasurable and infinite.

So, O Infinite Intention, see,
The power of this name to be,
A source of boundless grace and love,
To lift us to the realms above.”

Inspired by the Lotus Sutra,
Chapter 25,
Universal Gateway of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara,
Section 1, paragraph 14

The Lotus Sutra, chapter 25, Universal Gateway of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, is a remarkable text in the Buddhist tradition. The chapter is divided into two sections. The first section, paragraphs 1-23, focuses on Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara and his incredible power to alleviate suffering and give strength to people in need. The second section, paragraphs 1-25, is a poetic description of the compassionate actions of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara. The chapter contains many key messages, including the importance of keeping Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara in mind for protection and the fulfillment of prayers, and the significant role played by Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara in leading people to attain Buddhahood through the Lotus Sutra.

In Section 1, Bodhisattva Infinite Intention asks Shakyamuni Buddha why Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara is called Avalokitesvara. Shakyamuni Buddha explains that the name means “Perceiver of the Voices of the World,” reflecting the bodhisattva’s ability to compassionately respond to the voices, pleas, and cries of all living beings. Shakyamuni Buddha describes Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara as having extraordinary divine powers, and the ability to transform himself into various forms to save living beings. Moreover, the bodhisattva is known as the Bestower of Courage, capable of giving strength and courage to people in emergencies.

The key messages of Section 1 center on the power and compassion of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara. This bodhisattva is one of the most renowned in East Asia, thanks to the many personal experiences of divine assistance he has provided to those in need. The name “Perceiver of the Voices of the World” reflects the bodhisattva’s deep connection to all living beings, and his ability to respond to their needs with compassion and strength. Shakyamuni Buddha urges people to keep Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara in mind, as he can offer protection and help fulfill prayers.

In Section 2, Shakyamuni Buddha speaks in poetic stanzas about the compassionate actions of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara. This section highlights the importance of the bodhisattva in Buddhism, describing him as the epitome of profound love and compassion. The Universal Gateway of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara is the title of the chapter, implying that many people around the world can gain indirect access to the Lotus Sutra by reading and reciting this chapter. As such, Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara plays a significant role in leading people to attaining Buddhahood via the Lotus Sutra.

The key messages of Section 2 underscore the importance of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara in Buddhism, and his role in leading people to attain Buddhahood. The chapter describes the bodhisattva’s incredible compassion and his ability to help people in need, as well as his significance in the Buddhist tradition.

In conclusion, the Lotus Sutra, chapter 25, Universal Gateway of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, is a powerful text that provides insight into the compassionate and powerful nature of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara. The chapter contains many key messages, including the importance of keeping the bodhisattva in mind for protection and the fulfillment of prayers, and his role in leading people to attain Buddhahood through the Lotus Sutra. Overall, the chapter is an important text in the Buddhist tradition, and its lessons are relevant and impactful for people of all faiths and backgrounds.