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

The Bodhisattvas of the Earth, also known as the Earth Treasure Bodhisattvas or Jigadzatva, are a group of bodhisattvas featured in the Lotus Sutra, particularly in Chapter 15, “Emerging from the Earth.” These bodhisattvas are said to dwell within the earth and emerge to receive the Buddha’s teachings and propagate them in the world. They are characterized by their vast numbers, unwavering commitment to the Buddha’s teachings, and a unique connection to Shakyamuni Buddha, considered their eternal teacher.

In Chapter 15 of the Lotus Sutra, four great leaders among the Bodhisattvas of the Earth are mentioned. These leaders are:

1. Superior Practices (Visistacaritra)
2. Boundless Practices (Anantacaritra)
3. Pure Practices (Visuddhacaritra)
4. Steadfast Practices (Supratisthitacaritra)

These four leaders represent the four virtues of a Buddha: True Self, Eternity, Purity, and Happiness. The Bodhisattvas of the Earth are devoted to practicing the six perfections (paramitas), helping sentient beings attain enlightenment, and upholding the Lotus Sutra’s teachings.

The emergence of the Bodhisattvas of the Earth in the Lotus Sutra is significant as it highlights the universal nature of the Buddha’s teachings, extending beyond any specific historical or geographical context. Additionally, their appearance signifies the boundless compassion of the Buddha, who has the power to transform living beings and guide them toward enlightenment. The Bodhisattvas of the Earth serves as an example of the potential of all sentient beings to attain Buddhahood and embody the Buddha’s teachings in their own lives.

The origin of these bodhisattvas is not explicitly detailed in the sutra. Still, their appearance symbolizes the Buddha’s profound influence and the potential for sentient beings to attain enlightenment. The idea of the Bodhisattvas of the Earth emerging from within the Earth could be interpreted metaphorically, suggesting that they are present in the world, hidden among ordinary people, and ready to receive and uphold the Buddha’s teachings when needed.

The Bodhisattvas of the Earth, as their name suggests, are said to dwell within the Earth. In the Lotus Sutra, particularly in Chapter 15, they emerge from the Earth in response to Shakyamuni Buddha’s call. This emergence signifies that these bodhisattvas have a deep connection with Shakyamuni Buddha, and they have been practicing the Buddha’s teachings for a long time, even before the Buddha’s appearance in the world.

Their emergence from the Earth also emphasizes the universality and timeless nature of the Buddha’s teachings. The Bodhisattvas of the Earth transcends geographical and historical boundaries, and their appearance demonstrates the accessibility of the path to enlightenment for all beings, regardless of their background or location. The sutra’s portrayal of these bodhisattvas aims to inspire practitioners to realize their potential for attaining Buddhahood and embodying the virtues of the Buddha in their own lives.

Once the Bodhisattvas of the Earth emerges from the Earth in Chapter 15 of the Lotus Sutra, they perform several significant actions that demonstrate their deep commitment to the Buddha’s teachings and their readiness to propagate the dharma for the benefit of all sentient beings.

1. Paying homage to Shakyamuni Buddha: The Bodhisattvas of the Earth pay their respects to Shakyamuni Buddha, acknowledging him as their eternal teacher and the source of their wisdom.
2. Receiving the teachings: The Bodhisattvas of the Earth welcome the Lotus Sutra’s teachings from Shakyamuni Buddha, confirming their understanding of the dharma and their dedication to upholding these teachings.
3. Vowing to propagate the teachings: The Bodhisattvas of the Earth make a solemn vow to propagate the teachings of the Lotus Sutra throughout the world, ensuring that the dharma will continue to benefit sentient beings far into the future. They pledge to spread the instructions, even in the face of challenges and difficulties, out of their boundless compassion for all beings.
4. Encouraging and guiding sentient beings: As bodhisattvas, the Bodhisattvas of the Earth are committed to training and helping sentient beings along the path to enlightenment. They assist beings in various ways, including teaching the dharma, relieving suffering, and offering encouragement and support on the spiritual journey.

The emergence and actions of the Bodhisattvas of the Earth serve as an inspiring example for Buddhist practitioners. They embody the virtues of the Buddha and the potential for all beings to attain Buddhahood. By following their example and upholding the teachings of the Lotus Sutra, practitioners can strive to transform their own lives and work toward the enlightenment of all sentient beings.