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

Source: Chapter 11e of “The Great Teachings of The Lotus of the True Law”

Main Theme: This passage centers on the revelation of the Jewel Stūpa. It also features the appearance of Lord Prabhūtaratna. This highlights the unity and interconnectedness of all Tathāgatas (Enlightened Beings).

Key Ideas and Facts:

• Miraculous Opening: Lord Sākyamuni unlocks the Jewel Stūpa with a simple touch, revealing Lord Prabhūtaratna within. “With a mere touch of his right forefinger, Sākyamuni unlocked the heart of the great Stūpa of jewels… and it opened, as easily as the gates of a great city when unbolted.”
• Prabhūtaratna’s Presence: Prabhūtaratna passed into extinction eons ago. Yet, he is present and conscious within the Stūpa. He is praising Sākyamuni’s teachings of the Lotus Sutra. ““Excellent, excellent, Lord Sākyamuni. You have beautifully explained the Lotus of the True Law. You have taught it well to all who are gathered here. I myself have come to hear the teachings of the Lotus of the True Law.””
• Shared Seat: Prabhūtaratna offers half his seat to Sākyamuni, symbolizing the equality and shared enlightenment of all Tathāgatas. “Together, the two Enlightened Beings, or Tathāgatas, were seen as meteors in the sky, illuminating the great jewel Stūpa from within.”
• Elevation of the Assembly: Sākyamuni uses his mystical powers. He lifts the entire assembly to the sky. This fulfills their desire to be closer to the Tathāgatas. “Sensing this longing, Lord Sākyamuni, by his mystical power, lifted them all, and they became like meteors in the sky.”

Significance: This passage illustrates several key Buddhist concepts:

• The Eternal Nature of Enlightenment: Prabhūtaratna’s presence shows that enlightenment transcends death and time.
• The Interconnectedness of All Buddhas: The shared seat and the gathering of Tathāgatas emphasize the unity of all enlightened beings.
• The Accessibility of Enlightenment: The elevation of the assembly symbolizes that enlightenment is attainable for all beings.

Quote of Note: “This was a moment beyond their comprehension. They responded by showering both Lord Prabhūtaratna and Lord Sākyamuni with divine and earthly flowers.” This quote conveys the awe and wonder of the witnesses. It highlights the transformative power of these teachings.