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

The Great Teachings of The Lotus of the True Law, Chapter 7m–The Profound Impact of the Sixteen Novices: Spreading the Lotus of the True Law

Main Themes:

• Profound Impact of the Sixteen Novices: The text highlights the immense influence of the sixteen novices. They spread the teachings of the Lotus of the True Law. Their efforts guide countless beings toward enlightenment.
• Transmission of the Dharma: The story emphasizes the lineage of teaching. It starts with the Tathagata Mahabhignagnanabhibhu. Then it goes to the sixteen novices and finally to the vast number of beings they enlightened.
• Power of the Lotus Sutra: The Lotus of the True Law is presented as a profound teaching. It is capable of leading anyone to supreme enlightenment, regardless of their current spiritual path.

Most Important Ideas/Facts:

• The Tathagata Mahabhignagnanabhibhu entrusted the sixteen novices with a mission. They were to continue sharing the teachings of the Lotus of the True Law during his prolonged meditation.
• They diligently studied and mastered the teachings, demonstrating their exceptional wisdom and understanding.
• The Tathagata prophesied that the sixteen novices would achieve supreme enlightenment. He urged everyone to honor them and follow their teachings.
• The novices’ influence extended over countless eons, with their followers numbering “as vast as the sands of the river Ganges.”
• The text underscores the promise of swift enlightenment for anyone who accepts and embraces the teachings of the sixteen novices.

Key Quotes:

• “This extensive text was a guide for those aspiring to become Bodhisattvas and was considered suitable for all enlightened beings.” This highlights the universality of the Lotus Sutra’s teachings.
• “He urged the monks to honor these sixteen novices repeatedly. The Lord proclaimed that anyone who accepted the teachings of these promising young men would swiftly attain supreme enlightenment. Embracing these teachings leads to the profound wisdom of the Tathagatas.” This underlines the significance of the novices and the transformative power of their teachings.
• “They had awakened innumerable beings to enlightenment. These beings were as vast as the sands of the river Ganges. They followed the example set by the sixteen novices.” This illustrates the far-reaching impact of the novices’ teachings and their legacy.

Overall:

The excerpt highlights the crucial role of the sixteen novices. They transmit the profound teachings of the Lotus of the True Law. It emphasizes their dedication, wisdom, and the lasting influence they had in guiding countless beings towards enlightenment. The text reinforces the power of the Lotus Sutra as a path to supreme enlightenment accessible to all.