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

And at that profound moment, the Lord expressed his thoughts through the following verses:

Kitradhvaga questioned with mind so unsealed,
“Why is Avalokitesvara so named and revealed?”

Akshayamati, with insight’s deep ocean vast,
Replied to Kitradhvaga, “Listen to the past:

Learn from my words, see how the vow was fulfilled,
Through inconceivable eons, and Buddhas instilled.

To hear, see, and ponder both night and day,
Will wash away suffering, grief, and dismay.

If cast into fire by a foe’s wicked aim,
Think only of Avalokitesvara’s name,
The flames will extinguish, as if touched by the rain.

If plunged into oceans where monsters reside,
Hold Avalokitesvara in thought, and the tide
Will never engulf you, but cradle you wide.

If hurled from the Meru, to perish below,
Think Avalokitesvara, and sun-like you’ll glow,
Unmoved in the sky, unharmed from the throw.

If thunderbolts threaten your head from above,
Remember Avalokitesvara’s peace and love,
And no harm shall befall you, protected thereof.

If swords surround you, with intent to strike dead,
Think Avalokitesvara, and kindness will spread,
The blades turn to kindness, compassion instead.

If executioners await with cold, steel embrace,
Keep Avalokitesvara in heart and in grace,
And their swords shall shatter; you’ll find a safe place.

In shackles of wood or iron-bound,
Think of Avalokitesvara, freedom’s found.

Spells and spectres threatening your way,
Think of Avalokitesvara; they’ll not stay.

Goblins, Nâgas, demons all around,
Think of Avalokitesvara; they can’t confound.

Beasts with sharp teeth, claws that affright,
Think of Avalokitesvara; they’ll take flight.

Snakes with flames and poison severe,
Think of Avalokitesvara, no need to fear.

Thunderbolts from clouds, lightning’s fierce embrace,
Think of Avalokitesvara; they’ll leave no trace.

Avalokitesvara, savior in Sorrow’s Night,
Beholds all creatures, brings them light.

With magic and wisdom, he’s present everywhere,
In all directions, regions, his loving care.

Birth, age, and illness, those pains so real,
In Avalokitesvara’s grace, they’ll all heal.