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

Main Theme: This chapter highlights the dedication of Bodhisattvas and monks. They are committed to spreading the Buddha’s teachings (Dharmaparyāya) after his passing. This mission persists despite the anticipated challenges and resistance.

Key Ideas/Facts:

• Commitment to Spreading the Teachings: Both the Bodhisattvas and monks pledge to share the Buddha’s teachings widely. They even risk their lives to do so. This demonstrates their unwavering devotion and belief in the transformative power of the Dharmaparyāya.
• Bodhisattva Medicine King and Great Wit, along with 200,000 Bodhisattvas, state: “Dear Lord, please find peace. Know that after you leave this world, we will share these complex spiritual teachings. We will share these Parāya with all beings… We will even risk our lives to spread these teachings. Rest assured, Lord, we are committed.”
• Five hundred monks declare: “We too, dear Lord, will go forth and spread these universal spiritual truths. We will share the Dharmaparyāya, even if we must travel to distant worlds to do so.”
• Acknowledgement of Future Challenges: The text acknowledges the difficult task ahead. It predicts that many will be lost in pride, greed, illusion, and resistance to the teachings. This highlights the importance of perseverance and resilience in spreading the Dharma.
• The Bodhisattvas recognize: *”…in those times, many will be lost. They will be filled with pride, greed, and illusion. They will lack goodness and resist love and understanding.” *
• The monks observe: “In this world, people are often misguided. They lack virtue and are trapped in harmful thoughts. They are naturally resistant to wisdom.”
• Unity and Assurance: Eight thousand monks are present. They have received the Buddha’s assurance of their future enlightenment. The monks collectively vow to continue the Buddha’s work. This signifies a unified front dedicated to spreading the Dharma and ensuring its continuity beyond the Buddha’s lifetime.
• They affirm: “Let your heart be at peace, Lord. We also vow to share these spiritual teachings, these Dharmaparyāya, after your time here has ended. We will continue your work, even in the most challenging times and places.”

Significance: This chapter emphasizes the crucial role of dedicated individuals in carrying forward the Buddha’s teachings. Their commitment is vital for ensuring the Dharma’s accessibility and influence. Their determination remains strong even in the face of adversity.