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

At that moment, other Tathāgatas (enlightened beings) who had come from countless worlds were present. These were creations of Lord Sākyamuni, and they were teaching the law to beings in other realms. Seated around Lord Sākyamuni on magnificent jewel thrones beneath jeweled trees in every direction, they too were filled with wonder at the sight of the immense gathering of Bodhisattvas emerging from the earth and filling the sky.

Equally amazed, the followers of these Tathāgatas asked their respective enlightened leaders, “Where do all these innumerable Bodhisattvas come from? How can there be so many?”

The Tathāgatas responded to their followers, saying, “Wait a moment, young seekers of truth. The Bodhisattva Mahāsattva Maitreya, who has just received a revelation about his destiny for supreme enlightenment, has questioned Lord Sākyamuni about this very matter. Listen now, for Lord Sākyamuni is about to explain, and then you will understand.”^⁠

The Lord then addressed the Bodhisattva Maitreya, saying, “Well done, Ajita, well done. You have asked a profound question, Ajita, and it is fitting to ask.”

Then the Lord turned to the entire assembly of Bodhisattvas and said, “Pay close attention, young seekers of truth. Be ready and steadfast in your positions, all of you. The Tathāgata, the Arhat, and others will now reveal the wisdom of the Tathāgata. You will witness the leadership, the work, the creative display of power, the might, and the energy of the Tathāgata.”

At that moment, the Lord recited the following verses:

Be attentive all, young seekers of truth,
I’ll utter a word, infallible and uncouth,
Refrain from disputing, O sages so wise,
Tathāgata’s science is beyond reason’s guise.

Be steady, be thoughtful, attentive remain,
A law yet unknown, today you’ll attain,
Wonder of Tathāgatas, mystery profound,
Listen with open hearts, let truth resound.

Doubt not, O sages, I’ll strengthen your way,
Leader of truth, my words never stray,
Knowledge unlimited, wisdom so deep,
Trust in my guidance, the secrets I keep.

Profound laws known to Sugata I bear,
Above reasoning, argument, and worldly care,
I’ll reveal these laws, so hear them and see,
Embrace the wisdom, let your minds be free.

After reciting the verses, the Lord spoke to the Bodhisattva Mahāsattva Maitreya, also known as Ajita, saying, “I announce to you, Ajita, these countless Bodhisattvas, beyond number and comprehension, whom you’ve never seen before and who have just now emerged from the depths of the earth. These Bodhisattvas, Ajita, were awakened, inspired, and guided by me to the path of supreme and perfect enlightenment after I myself attained such enlightenment in this world. I have nurtured, established, and perfected them in their journey as Bodhisattvas.

These Bodhisattvas, Ajita, dwell in the ether below this world. Focused solely on their spiritual studies and committed to deep understanding, they avoid social gatherings and bustling crowds. They are diligent and do not procrastinate on their tasks. They delight in solitude, preferring to be away from gods and men, avoiding the distractions of busy gatherings. They find joy in the teachings of the law and immerse themselves in the wisdom of the Buddha.”

At that moment, the Lord recited the following verses:

Bodhisattvas immense, beyond measure and thought,
Magic and wisdom, in learning they’re wrought,
Progressed in knowledge through eons untold,
Many kotis of time, their stories unfold.

I’ve matured them for light, in my field they reside,
Brought to full bloom, as my sons they abide,
These Bodhisattvas, my children, my kin,
Nurtured by me, in enlightenment’s wind.

Hermits devoted, from bustle they flee,
Walking detached, these sons follow me,
Lofty and pure, they heed my decree,
In wisdom they thrive, in seclusion they’re free.

Dwelling in ether’s domain they reside,
Heroes unwearied, in knowledge they glide,
Day and night striving, superior they seek,
The wisdom of sages, the truth that they speak.

Strenuous, mindful, intelligence strong,
Serene sages preaching, radiant throng,
My sons they are called, radiant and wise,
Preaching the law, under infinite skies.

Since reaching enlightenment, foremost and pure,
In Gayā town, the tree’s foot, the allure,
All-surpassing wheel’s motion, the law’s endless dance,
Matured them for light, given each one a chance.

My words are faultless, the truth I convey,
Believe me, dear hearers, in me find your way,
Superior enlightenment reached, alone I embrace,
Matured all these beings, in wisdom and grace.