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

“The true aspect of reality is that of birthless and deathless. What is sin? What is a blessing? My mind is effortlessly empty; hence sin and blessings have no master. The truth of all realities is that of non-abiding nor decaying. Therefore, you should repent in this manner: meditate upon the mind that has no real mind, understand that reality does not comply with the law, and perceive that all realities are the truth of emancipation, of Nirvana, of tranquility. This method of contemplation is called the Great Repentance, Adorned Repentance, Sinless Repentance, and Annihilation of the Conscious Mind. By practicing repentance this way, you will purify your body and mind.”

MBUW 7.5

The Sutra of Meditation on Bodhisattva Universal Worthy is a Mahayana Buddhist text that teaches the practice of repentance. The sutra begins by asserting that the true nature of reality is birthless and deathless. This means there is no such thing as a permanent self or soul. Everything is constantly changing and evolving. The sutra then goes on to say that sin and blessings are also illusions. They are simple concepts that we create in our minds. The sutra then teaches the practice of repentance. This practice involves meditating on the fact that there is no natural mind. We should also understand that reality does not comply with the law. This means that there is no set path to enlightenment. We must let go of our attachments and allow ourselves to be transformed by the truth. The sutra concludes by saying that this practice of repentance will purify our body and mind. It will free us from the cycle of birth and death and lead us to enlightenment.

The sutra of meditation on Bodhisattva Universal Worthy is a powerful and transformative text. It can help us let go of our attachments and see reality’s true nature. If we practice this meditation regularly, it can lead us to enlightenment.

Here are some additional thoughts on the sutra:

• The sutra teaches us that sin and blessings are illusions. This is a liberating message. It means that our past mistakes do not bind us. We can start fresh and create a new future.
• The sutra teaches us that the true nature of reality is birthless and deathless. This reminds us that we are all part of something larger than ourselves. We are all connected.
• The sutra teaches us that repentance can purify our body and mind. This is a powerful message of hope. It means that we can transform ourselves and create a better future.

The practice of repentance is a powerful tool for spiritual growth. It can help us release negative thoughts and emotions and open our hearts to love and compassion. If you want to learn more about repentance, I encourage you to read the Sutra of Meditation on Bodhisattva Universal Worthy.

Here are some additional tips for practicing repentance:

• Find a quiet place where you will not be disturbed.
• Sit in a comfortable position with your back straight.
• Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths.
• Bring to mind the person or situation that you are repenting for.
• Say “I am sorry” to the person or situation sincerely and compassionately.
• Forgive yourself and the other person.
• Let go of any negative thoughts or emotions you may be holding onto.
• Open your heart to love and compassion.
• Continue to practice repentance regularly.

The Sutra of Meditation on Bodhisattva Universal Worthy: Purification and Repentance of the Six Sense Organs

Introduction

The Sutra of Meditation on Bodhisattva Universal Worthy is a profound teaching that guides practitioners to purify and repent for the six sense organs through a transformative meditation process. This essay will provide an overview of the teachings in the sutra, divided into nine sections, focusing on the various stages of meditation and the techniques used for purification and repentance.

Section 1: Basic Stage of Meditation

O Bhagavat! After the parinirvana of Tathagata, how can living beings develop the mind of a bodhisattva, practice the Great Vehicle broad and impartial sutra, and apply the correct mindset in pondering the realm of the One Single Truth? How can they maintain the aspiration of attaining unsurpassed enlightenment? How can they purify their senses by eliminating their sins without severing worries or cutting off the five desires? With the pure ordinary eyes given by their parents, how can they look beyond the obstacles without severing the five desires?”

MBUW 1.3

Addressing Ananda, the Buddha teaches the Basic Stage of Meditation of Bodhisattva Universal Worthy in the first section of the sutra. This meditation is a type of visualization that involves a sequence of events leading to the appearance of Bodhisattva Universal Worthy. The visualization process allows practitioners to connect with the enlightened qualities of this Bodhisattva, setting the foundation for the subsequent stages of meditation.

Section 2: Repentance and Purification of the Six Sense Organs

In the second section, Bodhisattva Universal Worthy guides practitioners in repentance and purification of the six sense organs: eyes, ears, nose, tongue, body, and mind. This guidance helps practitioners to reflect on their past actions, thoughts, and habits related to these sense organs, acknowledging any harm caused and committing to a path of purification.

Section 3: Purification of the Eyes

The Buddha teaches the Basic Stage of the purification of the eyes in the third section of the sutra. This process includes techniques and practices to purify one’s vision and perceptions. By engaging in these practices, practitioners can overcome attachments and defilements related to sight and develop more precise, compassionate ways of seeing the world.

Section 4: Repentance of the Ears

In the fourth section, the Buddha describes the steps necessary to carry out repentance of the ears. These techniques and practices help practitioners purify their hearing and cultivate more mindful, attentive listening. By doing so, individuals can foster greater understanding and empathy for others and a deeper appreciation for the teachings of the Dharma.

Section 5: Repentance of the Nose

The fifth section of the sutra outlines the steps for repentance of the nose. The Buddha provides techniques and practices to purify one’s sense of smell, encouraging practitioners to develop a more refined, discerning awareness of scents and their impact on the body and mind. This purification process helps individuals to let go of attachments related to smell and cultivate a more balanced, harmonious relationship with their environment.

Section 6: Repentance of the Tongue

In the sixth section, the Buddha describes the steps for repentance of the tongue. The techniques and practices offered by the Buddha help practitioners to purify their speech, taste, and consumption habits. Individuals can develop more mindful, wholesome communication and nourishment patterns by engaging in these practices, contributing to overall well-being and spiritual progress.

Section 7: Repentance of the Body and Mind

The seventh section of the sutra details the steps for repentance of the body and mind. The Buddha offers techniques and practices that enable practitioners to purify their physical actions and mental states. This comprehensive purification process promotes self-awareness, mindfulness, and ethical conduct, laying the foundation for spiritual growth and realizing one’s true nature.

Section 8: Summary of Purification Methods

In the eighth section, the Buddha speaks in stanzas to summarize his teachings on the purification methods for the six sense organs. This poetic summary serves as a concise reminder of the fundamental principles and practices involved in the process of purification and repentance, providing a touchstone for practitioners to revisit and refine their understanding of the teachings.

Section 9: Further Explanation and Methods of Repentance

In the ninth and final section of the sutra, the Buddha provides further explanation and clarification on the methods of repentance for the six sense organs. He emphasizes the importance of meditation on Bodhisattva Universal Worthy to deepen one’s understanding and practice. Additionally, the Buddha introduces the five methods of repentance for Kshatriyas and ordinary citizens, which serve as practical, accessible ways to apply the teachings to daily life.

Conclusion

The Sutra of Meditation on Bodhisattva Universal Worthy offers a comprehensive guide to the purification and repentance of the six sense organs through meditation and practical techniques. By following the teachings and practices outlined in the sutra, practitioners can develop greater self-awareness, ethical conduct, and spiritual growth. Cultivating these qualities helps individuals reach enlightenment, fostering compassion and wisdom and realizing their true nature.