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

Source: Chapter 7c – The Plea of the Sixteen Princes for the Turning of the Dharma Wheel (Excerpt)

Main Theme: This excerpt depicts a pivotal moment. Sixteen young princes implore the Buddha, Mahabhignagnanabhibhu, to share his teachings. They ask him to set in motion the wheel of the Dharma.

Key Ideas & Facts:

• Reverence and Awe: The princes approach the Buddha with deep respect. They admire him greatly. This highlights the reverence associated with his enlightened status.
• Plea for Teachings: The core of the excerpt is the princes’ heartfelt request. They ask the Buddha to “preach the law”. They want him to share his knowledge for the benefit of all beings.
• Universal Compassion: The plea emphasizes the Buddha’s compassion. His teachings have the potential to bring “well-being and joy to the people.” They can also bring these benefits to the entire world.
• Longing for Guidance: The princes’ verses reveal a deep yearning for spiritual direction. They express a desire to “grasp supreme enlightenment.”
• Buddha’s Omniscience: The princes acknowledge the Buddha’s profound wisdom. They recognize his understanding. They state, “Thou knowest every path and hidden way / The deeds of past, the hearts that sway.”
• Call to Action: The excerpt ends with a powerful image of the “wheel” of Dharma. It urges the Buddha to set it in motion. The goal is to guide all beings toward enlightenment.

Significant Quotes:

• “Preach the law, O Lord; preach the law, O Sugata. Bring well-being and joy to the people, and show compassion to the world.” – This quote underscores the princes’ primary request and highlights the universal benefit of the Buddha’s teachings.
• “Release us, release these creatures too, / Display the Tathagata’s wisdom, pure and true, / That we, and all beings in this vast expanse, / May grasp supreme enlightenment, given the chance.” – This verse emphasizes the transformative potential of the Buddha’s teachings, offering liberation and enlightenment to all.
• “Move on the wheel, the sublime and exalted goal!” – This powerful concluding line calls on the Buddha to activate the wheel of Dharma and initiate the journey toward enlightenment for all.

Overall Impression: This excerpt shows the profound significance of the Buddha’s teachings. People eagerly sought his guidance. It highlights the transformative power of the Dharma and the universal desire for spiritual understanding and liberation.