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

In lifetimes yet to come,
Should seekers find the Lotus Sutra’s grace,
As Buddha’s children, they shall dwell,
Within benevolence’s pure embrace.

When Buddha’s earthly form does cease,
The Lotus Sutra’s truth perceived,
As eyes to heaven and to earth,
By human hearts and gods believed.

In times of fear, the Lotus taught,
E’en for a fleeting moment’s glance,
These teachers hold a sacred place,
Deserving worship and reverence.

In celestial realms and mortal plains,
Their offerings and praises given,
To those who, steadfast, share the light,
Of Lotus Sutra’s wisdom-driven.

Inspired by the Lotus Sutra
Chapter 11:03.39-41

These verses convey the following meanings:

The first verse highlights the transformative potential of the Lotus Sutra in future lifetimes for those who discover and embrace its teachings. By doing so, these individuals become spiritual children of the Buddha, connecting with the enlightened being in a deeply profound and intimate manner.

“As Buddha’s children, they shall dwell, within benevolence’s pure embrace” implies that by following the Lotus Sutra’s teachings, practitioners cultivate virtues such as compassion, wisdom, and loving-kindness. This ultimately leads them to live in harmony with the principles of Buddhism and in a state of spiritual purity.

The term “benevolence’s pure embrace” suggests a metaphorical realm or state of being where individuals embody the Buddha’s teachings and experience a profound connection to the Buddha’s wisdom and love. This ideal state promotes personal growth and enlightenment, guiding practitioners on their spiritual journey toward Buddhahood.

In essence, the first verse emphasizes that in future lifetimes, seekers who find and engage with the Lotus Sutra will be on a path towards enlightenment. As spiritual children of the Buddha, they will experience a deep connection to the Buddha’s wisdom and compassion, cultivating virtues that bring them closer to their inherent Buddha-nature and the ultimate goal of enlightenment.

In the second verse, the focus is on the time after the Buddha’s passing, known as parinirvana. The reference to the Buddha’s earthly form ceasing highlights the impermanence of the physical body, even for an enlightened being like the Buddha. Despite this impermanence, the teachings of the Lotus Sutra remain to guide future generations.

The Lotus Sutra’s truths are described as being perceived by individuals who become “eyes to heaven and to earth.” This suggests that these individuals act as spiritual visionaries or guides, helping both celestial beings and humans to see the deeper wisdom and truth of existence. By understanding and sharing the teachings of the Lotus Sutra, they serve as bridges between the spiritual and the physical realms, carrying on the Buddha’s message and making the teachings accessible to others.

The phrase “by human hearts and gods believed” emphasizes the importance and influence of the Lotus Sutra’s teachings, not only for humans but also for heavenly beings. This highlights the universal relevance of the sutra’s wisdom, transcending the boundaries of worldly and celestial domains. Through understanding the teachings of the Lotus Sutra, these individuals contribute to the spiritual growth and enlightenment of both humans and gods. Their insights and teachings help guide others on the path to enlightenment, nurturing a deeper understanding of the Buddha’s wisdom and compassion.

The third verse emphasizes the power and impact of the Lotus Sutra’s teachings, even during difficult or fearful times. The teachings of the Lotus Sutra act as a source of comfort, guidance, and wisdom that can provide relief and insight to people facing challenges or uncertainties.

When the verse states, “In times of fear, the Lotus taught, e’en for a fleeting moment’s glance,” it highlights the notion that even a brief encounter with the teachings of the Lotus Sutra can bring about a transformative effect on an individual’s life. The sutra’s profound wisdom has the ability to offer solace and spiritual understanding in the face of adversity.

The verse then goes on to mention the importance and reverence of those who teach the Lotus Sutra. “These teachers hold a sacred place, deserving worship and reverence.” These individuals play a vital role in spreading the wisdom and message of the sutra, often providing support and guidance for others during challenging times.

By sharing the teachings of the Lotus Sutra, these teachers contribute to the spiritual well-being and growth of others, helping them navigate life’s difficulties with greater wisdom, compassion, and understanding. Due to their important role in preserving and propagating the sutra’s teachings, they hold a special and respected position in the spiritual community and are considered deserving of worship and reverence.

The fourth verse brings attention to the dedication and commitment of those who share the teachings of the Lotus Sutra across both heavenly and earthly realms. These individuals, steadfast in their pursuit to spread the sutra’s wisdom, are honored and appreciated for their efforts.

“In celestial realms and mortal plains, their offerings and praises given” illustrates that both heavenly beings and humans acknowledge and express gratitude for these devoted teachers. They recognize the essential role these individuals play in perpetuating the profound teachings of the Lotus Sutra and facilitating the spiritual growth of countless beings.

The verse concludes with “To those who, steadfast, share the light, of Lotus Sutra’s wisdom-driven.” This line emphasizes the unwavering dedication of these teachers who act as beacons of light, guiding others through the darkness of ignorance and suffering. By sharing the wisdom-driven teachings of the Lotus Sutra, they illuminate the path to enlightenment for those who seek to understand and embrace the sutra’s profound message.

Overall, the fourth verse acknowledges the valuable contributions made by those who commit themselves to teaching and spreading the Lotus Sutra. These individuals are honored and celebrated for their efforts in both heavenly and earthly realms, as they work tirelessly to bring the transformative wisdom of the sutra to all beings, fostering spiritual growth and enlightenment.