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

Source: Chapter 17c–The Boundless Virtue of Faith from The Great Teachings of the Lotus of the True Law, by William Altig, a Buddhist text.

Main Theme: This chapter centers on the extraordinary merit accrued by having faith in the infinite lifespan of the Enlightened One (likely referring to Buddha). It contrasts this with the comparatively lesser virtue gained through eons of practicing the five perfections, emphasizing the overwhelming power of faith.

Key Ideas and Facts:

• Unfathomable Virtue of Faith: A single moment of genuine belief in the Buddha’s infinite life generates immeasurable virtue, surpassing countless eons of practicing charity, morality, patience, energy, and meditation (excluding wisdom).

• “The virtue accumulated by the first, even after endless eons of practice, does not equal even the one-hundredth part of the virtue in the second case. It doesn’t even equal one-thousandth part. It’s beyond calculation, counting, comparison, or any secret teaching.”

• Guaranteed Enlightenment: Anyone, regardless of background, who possesses such immense virtue derived from faith is destined to achieve complete and perfect enlightenment.

• “Ajita, a person possessing such an incredible accumulation of virtue, whether a young man or young woman of noble character, will undoubtedly reach complete and perfect enlightenment. It cannot be otherwise.”⁠”

• Path to Accumulating Merit: While faith holds supreme value, the text also outlines traditional Buddhist practices for cultivating merit, such as:

1. Generously offering alms to the wise, Buddhas, and disciples.
2. Building and maintaining monasteries and places of refuge.
3. Upholding moral precepts and pursuing wisdom.
4. Practicing patience and enduring hardships.
5. Dedications to meditation and striving for enlightenment.

• Aspiration to Emulate Buddha: The verses encourage aspiring Bodhisattvas to develop unwavering faith in the Buddha’s infinite life and strive to attain a similar state, ultimately working towards the liberation of all beings.

• “May I become such, releasing beings in need,
  Like the Lion of the Sakya race, in wisdom and deed,
  On the terrace of enlightenment, may I roar,
  Releasing others, forever and more.’”

Significance: This chapter highlights the paramount importance of faith within this Buddhist tradition. It suggests that genuine belief in the Buddha’s teachings, particularly the concept of his infinite lifespan, holds transformative power capable of propelling individuals toward enlightenment far more effectively than conventional practices alone. It inspires followers to cultivate such faith and aspire to emulate the Buddha’s compassionate mission of liberating all beings from suffering.