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

Source: Chapter 13d – The Resolve of the Magical Bodhisattvas. It is from The Great Teachings of The Lotus of the True Law by William Altig.

Main Themes:

• Prophecy of the Buddha’s Extinction: The chapter begins with the Buddha foretelling his extinction. He challenges his Bodhisattva followers to carry on his teachings.
• Vow of the Bodhisattvas: The Bodhisattvas pledge to spread the Dharma despite facing persecution and hardship in the future.
• Characteristics of the “Dreadful Times”: The Bodhisattvas anticipate a future where people will be wicked and ignorant. They will also be materialistic. These traits will make it difficult to spread the true teachings.
• Endurance and Patience: The Bodhisattvas emphasize the importance of patience and forbearance in the face of adversity. They are determined to uphold the Buddha’s teachings despite facing abuse and slander.

Key Ideas and Facts:

• The “Wheel that Never Rolls Back”: The Bodhisattvas in this chapter are described as “gifted with magical spells.” They are capable of moving forward the wheel that never rolls back. This imagery symbolizes their power to continue the Buddha’s teachings and propel them forward into the future.
• The Dharmaparyâya: The text refers to the “Dharmaparyâya.” It can be understood as the universal spiritual truths. These truths were taught by the Buddha through complex parables and metaphors. The Bodhisattvas commit to spreading this truth.
• Challenges and Persecution: The Bodhisattvas predict that they will face significant challenges in spreading the Dharma. They anticipate:
• Physical abuse: “We’ll endure threats, blows, and stick…Though the injuries they bestow, We’ll patiently endure the woe.”
• Slander and false accusations: “Greedy ones will preach and claim, Six transcendent qualities, a fame…Wicked men with household care, Enter forest, spread despair, Our defamation they’ll construe.”
• Opposition from other religious groups (“Tīrthikas”): “Tīrthikas, for profit bent, Accuse us with malevolent intent…Evil spoken, spread with haste, Tīrtha-doctrine leaves no taste.”
• Unwavering Commitment: Despite these anticipated difficulties, the Bodhisattvas are resolute in their commitment. They declare: “Body or life, we’ll not protect, But enlightenment, thine entrusted respect.” They are willing to sacrifice their own well-being to ensure the Buddha’s teachings are preserved and shared.

Significance:

This chapter highlights the vital role of the Bodhisattvas in Buddhist tradition. They are not merely passive followers but active agents tasked with ensuring the survival and propagation of the Dharma. Their courage, dedication, and commitment to truth serve as a powerful inspiration for all Buddhists.