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

Main Theme: The excerpt from Chapter 15d of the “Lotus Sutra” centers around the Bodhisattva Maitreya’s question. He asks about the seemingly impossible feat of the Buddha awakening countless Bodhisattvas to near enlightenment in a short period. This contrasts with their incredibly long journeys of spiritual cultivation. This starts a discussion on the nature of time. It also explores the limitations of conventional understanding in comprehending the Buddha’s actions.

Key Ideas and Facts:

• Maitreya’s Astonishment: Maitreya is amazed. He is with the assembly of Bodhisattvas. He is awestruck by the sheer number of Bodhisattvas who have attained near enlightenment. They achieved this under the Buddha’s guidance within a mere 40 years. He finds it perplexing considering the eons these Bodhisattvas have spent cultivating themselves.

“How is it possible that in such a brief span of time, countless Bodhisattvas have been awakened? How have they been brought to the brink of supreme and perfect enlightenment?”

• The Analogy of the Young Father: Maitreya presents a powerful analogy. He describes a young man claiming to be the father of centenarians. This highlights the seeming impossibility of the situation. He argues that the public would find it hard to believe. It is similar to the idea of the Buddha awakening Bodhisattvas. They have practiced for countless eons within a short timeframe.

“Imagine a young man, youthful and in the prime of his life at twenty-five years of age, with dark hair. He shows a group of centenarians and calls them his sons. He claims, ‘Look, these are my children.’ The centenarians confirm and say, ‘This is our father who gave us life.’ Such a statement would be unbelievable and hard for the public to accept.”

• The Accomplished Bodhisattvas: Maitreya describes the Bodhisattvas as beings who have been on a spiritual path for a long period. They have vast experience. They have mastered countless forms of meditation. They transcend ordinary wisdom and possess great spiritual power and vigor.

These are beings who have followed a spiritual path for endless eons. They have long been certain of Tathāgata-knowledge. They master countless forms of meditation. They have transcended ordinary wisdom. They are proficient in the Buddha’s teachings. They are known for their vigor, strength, and power.

• Concerns about Disbelief and Doubt: Maitreya expresses concern. He worries that future generations might doubt the Buddha’s teachings due to this apparent discrepancy. He fears that this disbelief could lead to actions that harm the Dharma, the Buddha’s teachings.

“After the Tathāgata’s passing, those who hear these teachings might reject and distrust them. Such disbelief could lead to actions that harm the spiritual law.”

• Plea for Clarification: Maitreya urges the Buddha to clarify the matter. He asks to dispel any doubts for those present and for future generations. This ensures that the truth of the Buddha’s teachings remains accessible and understandable.

“Therefore, O Lord, please explain this matter. Clarify it so that we may be free from confusion. This will ensure that future seekers, both young men and young ladies, do not doubt.”

Quotes from Maitreya’s Verses:

• “How will these Bodhisattvas believe this great tale? / Expel all doubt, let truth prevail”
• “Sons to so young, an appearance so odd, / Difficult to fathom, O Lord, O God”
• “Hearing from you, O Lord, doubt will subside, / Speak the truth, let understanding abide”

Significance:

This excerpt highlights a crucial element of the “Lotus Sutra”—the concept of skillful means (upaya). The Buddha uses seemingly paradoxical statements and analogies to challenge the limitations of ordinary thinking. These methods lead listeners towards a deeper understanding of reality. The passage introduces the Buddha’s explanation of “Buddha-nature.” This concept transcends linear conceptions of time. It enables the seemingly impossible feat of awakening countless beings in a relatively short period.