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

Source: “The Heritage of the Ultimate Law of Life” by Nichiren Daishonin (1272)

Main Theme: This letter expounds on the concept of inheriting the “ultimate Law of life and death.” This inheritance happens through faith in and chanting of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. Nichiren emphasizes the interconnectedness of life, death, and Buddhahood. He stresses the eternal nature of this Law. He also emphasizes the importance of unwavering faith for its inheritance.

Key Ideas and Facts:

• Myoho-renge-kyo as the Ultimate Law: Nichiren asserts that the phrase “Myoho-renge-kyo” embodies the fundamental Law of life and death. This Law is inherited from an unbroken lineage of Buddhas. He breaks down the meaning: “Myō signifies death, and hō, life,” highlighting the cyclical nature of existence.
• Oneness of Life, the Sutra, and Buddhahood: The letter dismantles the perceived separation. It shows there is no separation between Shakyamuni Buddha, the Lotus Sutra, and ordinary people. It shows that Shakyamuni Buddha, the Lotus Sutra, and ordinary people are interconnected. Nichiren states, “Shakyamuni Buddha who attained enlightenment countless kalpas ago is in no way different.” He is not separate from the Lotus Sutra. The Sutra leads all people to Buddhahood. We ordinary human beings are also not different or separate from them.” This emphasizes the potential for Buddhahood inherent in all beings.
• Chanting as Inheritance: Chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo with profound faith is crucial. One should chant with the mindset that “now is the last moment of one’s life.” This approach is presented as the key to inheriting the Law. This urgency awakens one’s innate Buddhahood, transcending the cycle of life and death.
• Karma and Consequences: The letter evokes vivid imagery of consequences for belief and disbelief. Those who embrace the Lotus Sutra are met by “a thousand Buddhas” upon death. Those who reject it face the “wardens of hell.” This reinforces the karmic implications of one’s faith and actions.
• Unity and Propagation: Nichiren stresses the importance of unity among his disciples. He advocates for a “spirit of many in body but one in mind.” This harmonious collective is essential for the widespread propagation of the Law and the realization of a peaceful world.
• Faith as Paramount: The letter concludes with a powerful message: “Even embracing the Lotus Sutra would be useless.” Without the heritage of faith, it would not be effective. This emphasizes that simply acknowledging the teachings is insufficient; true inheritance requires unshakable faith.

Notable Quotes:

• “To chant Myoho-renge-kyo with this realization is to inherit the ultimate Law of life and death.”
• The heritage of the Lotus Sutra flows within the lives of those who never forsake it in any lifetime whatsoever. This is true whether in the past, the current, or the future.
• Think of those thousand Buddhas extending their hands to all of Nichiren’s disciples and lay supporters who chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. It is like melons or moonflowers extending their slender vines.
• “Even embracing the Lotus Sutra would be useless without the heritage of faith.”

Significance: This letter provides a concise yet profound explanation of Nichiren Buddhism’s core tenets. It underscores the accessible path to enlightenment through faith and practice. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings and the transformative power of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo.