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

As the teachings about the infinite lifespan of the Enlightened One were shared, countless beings found wisdom and understanding. The Lord then spoke to Maitreya, a great spiritual leader:

“While these teachings were being shared, Ajita, many spiritual seekers—vast as the sands of a great river—have embraced the eternal truth that has no beginning. A thousand times more spiritual leaders have obtained blessings and spiritual strength; others, as numerous as the particles in part of the universe, have gained a clear and unrestricted view of truth.

Others still, equal to the particles in two-thirds of the universe, have obtained a powerful spiritual mantra that circles a hundred thousand times. More spiritual leaders, as numerous as the particles in an entire universe, have set the unending wheel of spiritual progress in motion.

Some, as numerous as the particles in an average universe, have propelled the wheel of pure, radiant wisdom. Others, as many as the particles in a smaller universe, are now on a path that will lead to complete enlightenment after eight more lifetimes.

Others, equivalent to the particles in worlds with four continents, will attain complete enlightenment in four more lifetimes. Some, equivalent to the particles in three such worlds, will need three more lifetimes; those equivalent to two such worlds will need two more lifetimes; and those equivalent to one such world will need just one more lifetime before attaining complete, perfect enlightenment.

Finally, by hearing these teachings, spiritual leaders as numerous as the particles in eight vast universes have embraced the highest goal of perfect enlightenment.”

A miraculous event unfolded as soon as the Lord shared these teachings, defining the eternal nature of truth. From the heavens, a shower of exquisite Mandarava flowers rained down, covering and adorning all the innumerable Buddhas seated beneath the sparkling jewel trees in countless worlds. The flowers also graced the Lord Sâkyamuni, the Enlightened One, and the Lord Prabhutaratna, another Enlightened One who sat in a transcendent state, along with all the spiritual leaders and the diverse audience present.

A rain of celestial sandalwood and fragrant resin powder trickled down from the sky, and the sound of heavenly drums filled the air with a soothing melody, though no one was seen playing them. Hundreds and thousands of fine heavenly cloths drifted down from above, along with dazzling necklaces and precious gems that hung suspended in the sky in every direction.

Thousands of jewel censers filled with priceless, exquisite incense moved on their own, creating a mesmerizing display. Spiritual leaders held jewel-encrusted umbrellas above each Enlightened One, reaching as high as the divine Brahma world, honoring all the countless Buddhas in this way. They celebrated these Buddhas with verses and sacred hymns, singing their praises.