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

Oh Universal Worthy, we beseech,
Five hundred years since Tathagata’s parinirvana breach,
Those who embrace, accept, read, and recite
The Lotus Sutra, should be seen in a new light.

For before long, they shall arrive,
At the sanctuaries of enlightenment, they shall thrive,
Vanquishing armies of devils with ease,
Attaining Supreme Perfect Enlightenment, the mind at peace.

Turning the Wheel of the Law with might,
Beating the drum of the Law in delight,
Blowing the couch of the Law, spreading its sound,
Showering the rain of the Law, everywhere abound.

Sitting on lion thrones of the Law, they shall rest,
Amidst great assembly of heavenly gods and humans, at their best,
For those who accept the Lotus Sutra with all their might,
Shall attain the ultimate truth and bask in its glorious light.

Inspired by the Lotus Sutra,
Chapter 28,
Encouragement of Bodhisattva Universal Worthy,
Section 2, paragraph 5

The Lotus Sutra is one of the most revered texts in Mahayana Buddhism. It contains the teachings of the Buddha Shakyamuni and provides guidance on how to attain enlightenment. In Chapter 28 of the Lotus Sutra, entitled “Encouragement of Bodhisattva Universal Worthy,” we are introduced to a figure who personifies great vows, actions, and meditation – Bodhisattva Universal Worthy. This chapter is rich with valuable teachings, and in this essay, we will explore its key messages and their significance.

The first section of the chapter tells us about Bodhisattva Universal Worthy’s encounter with the Lotus Sutra. In the land of King of Precious Dignity and Superior Virtue Buddha, he hears the teachings being expounded by Shakyamuni Buddha. Bodhisattva Universal Worthy is so moved by what he hears that he travels all the way to the Saha world to listen to the teachings again. He asks the Buddha a question and bestows the dharani for the protection of the practitioners of the Lotus Sutra. Moreover, he makes a vow to protect the Lotus Sutra, ensuring its widespread propagation throughout Jambudvipa.

The significance of this section lies in the importance of vows and actions in the practice of Buddhism. Bodhisattva Universal Worthy is an embodiment of the power of vows and the importance of acting on them. By making a vow to protect the Lotus Sutra and its practitioners, he sets in motion a force that ensures the teachings will continue to spread throughout the world. This message is particularly relevant in today’s world, where many people are searching for meaning and purpose. It reminds us that we can make a difference in the world by taking action towards our goals, no matter how small they may seem.

The second section of the chapter further emphasizes the importance of the Lotus Sutra and its practitioners. Shakyamuni Buddha tells us that those who embrace the Lotus Sutra have already seen him. He also says that honest and upright practitioners will not be troubled by the Three Poisons – desire, anger, and ignorance. Moreover, he reminds us that practitioners of the Lotus Sutra should be treated with the utmost respect, the same as is accorded to the Buddhas. People who practice gratitude and contentment with daily necessities will have all their prayers and dreams fulfilled. In contrast, those who slander and disparage the practitioners of the Lotus Sutra will receive their due recompense.

This section of the chapter is valuable because it provides us with guidance on how to live our lives in accordance with Buddhist principles. It reminds us that our actions have consequences and that we must strive to live with integrity and compassion. The teachings of the Lotus Sutra can help us overcome the negative emotions that can cloud our minds and prevent us from achieving our goals. It also reminds us that we should respect all beings, regardless of their background or beliefs.

In conclusion, Chapter 28 of the Lotus Sutra, “Encouragement of Bodhisattva Universal Worthy,” is a rich source of teachings that are valuable for practitioners of Buddhism and anyone seeking to live a meaningful life. The chapter emphasizes the importance of vows and actions, the power of the Lotus Sutra, and the importance of living with integrity and compassion. Bodhisattva Universal Worthy is a symbol of the power of vows and the importance of acting on them. By following his example, we can make a difference in the world and live a life that is in line with Buddhist principles.

Bodhisattva Universal Worthy spoke with care,
To Buddha, he made a vow beyond compare:
“In the last five hundred years of the evil age,
I’ll shield those who embrace the Lotus Sutra’s sage.

No harm shall come their way,
As I’ll protect them night and day,
Against those who seek to harm,
Their weaknesses, I’ll disarm.

The devil, devil’s son, and daughter too,
Shall have no power over those who pursue
The Lotus Sutra’s teachings, so grand,
Under my vow’s protection, they shall stand.

Yaksha, rakshasa, kumbhanda, and pishacha,
And other evil beings shall have no cha-cha,
As I’ll keep them all at bay,
So that the Lotus Sutra’s light may shine each day.

My vow’s power shall never wane,
As I’ll protect them again and again,
The Lotus Sutra’s truth shall be my guide,
And all who embrace it shall thrive and abide.”

Inspired by the Lotus Sutra,
Chapter 28,
Encouragement of Bodhisattva Universal Worthy,
Section 1 paragraph 5