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

Chapter 6 of the Lotus Sutra, Prophecies of Attaining Buddhahood, focuses on the prophecies of four prominent disciples of the Buddha: Maha-Kashyapa, Subhuti, Maha-Katyayana, and Maha-Maudgalyayana. The chapter highlights that through unwavering devotion, rigorous practice, and steadfast determination, anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, can attain Buddhahood.

The prophecy for Maha-Kashyapa is that he will become a Buddha named Light Bright Tathagata in the land of Brilliant Virtue during the kalpa of Great Glory. Subhuti’s prophecy is that he will become a Buddha named Universal Light Tathagata in the land of Jewels Arise during the kalpa of Presence of Jewels. Maha-Katyayana’s prophecy is that he will become a Buddha named Jambunada Gold Light Tathagata, and Maha-Maudgalyayana’s prophecy is that he will become a Buddha named Tathagata Tamalapatra Sandalwood Fragrance in the land of Joy of the Mind during the kalpa of Abundant Joy.

The significance of these prophecies lies in the idea that even disciples of the Buddha can attain Buddhahood and that enlightenment and Buddhahood are attainable by anyone, regardless of their circumstances. The Lotus Sutra reinforces the universality of Buddhist philosophy and encourages practitioners to persevere in their quest for enlightenment.