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

In the eastern lands, Bodhisattva Mahāsattva Samantabhadra, accompanied by an incalculable number of other great Bodhisattvas, made his majestic arrival. As fields vibrated, showers of lotuses descended, and countless musical instruments played, Samantabhadra advanced, showcasing the grandeur, transformational ability, magnificence, power, brilliance, dignified procession, and miraculous manifestations characteristic of a Bodhisattva. This grand procession, a fantastical spectacle featuring gods, Nāgas, goblins, Gandharvas, demons, Garudas, Kinnaras, great serpents, humans, and non-human entities—all brought forth by his magical prowess—moved towards this Saha-world. Upon reaching the Gridhrakūta mountain, Samantabhadra approached the Buddha, paid his respects, circled him seven times clockwise, and expressed his purpose: to hear the teachings of the Lotus Sutra, brought alongside a multitude of Bodhisattvas. He requested the Buddha to share the profound teachings of this sutra with them.

The Buddha acknowledged Samantabhadra and his companions’ keen intellect and readiness for the teachings of the Lotus Sutra, emphasizing its nature as a pure truth. The assembly, including monks, nuns, and lay followers, especially the women among them, was reassured of their capacity to understand and uphold these teachings. The Buddha specified four essential qualities for a female disciple to be entrusted with the Lotus Sutra: guidance under the Buddhas, cultivation of virtuous deeds, adherence to discipline, and a commitment to the ultimate enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. These prerequisites highlight the inclusive spirit and profound wisdom of the Lotus Sutra, open to all who are dedicated to the path of enlightenment.

“Whenever a teacher of this Lotus Sutra goes for a walk, imagine this: I’ll appear riding a majestic white elephant with six tusks, surrounded by an entourage of Bodhisattvas, just like a VIP escorted by top security. I’ll ensure their safety.”

“And if a teacher ever forgets even a single word of the Lotus Sutra, I’ll show up on my white elephant to remind them of the text. Seeing and hearing the Sutra from me will fill them with joy and motivation. They will not only remember the teachings but also gain special skills, like entering deep meditations and even obtaining powerful spells for protection.”