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

Subject: Analysis of protective spells offered by Bodhisattva Pradanasura in Lotus Sutra, Chapter 25b.

Source: Excerpts from “The Lotus Sutra, Chapter 25b–The Invincible Spells of Bodhisattva Pradanasura”

Summary:

This document analyzes the excerpt from the Lotus Sutra, Chapter 25b, which features Bodhisattva Pradanasura (Generous Hero) offering protective spells to those who preach the teachings of the Lotus Sutra. The core theme revolves around protection from malevolent entities and assurance of safety for those dedicated to spreading the Dharma. The spells, described as magical words, act as a shield against harm and are validated by a vast multitude of Buddhas.

Main Themes & Key Ideas:

• Protection of Dharma Preachers: The central purpose of the spells is to safeguard individuals actively engaged in teaching and propagating the Lotus Sutra. Pradanasura specifically offers these spells for “the benefit of those who preach these teachings.” This highlights the importance of spreading Buddhist teachings and the commitment to protecting those who dedicate themselves to this task.
• Invocation of Protection Against Malevolent Entities: The spells are designed to ward off a diverse range of harmful entities, including “demons, giants, goblins, sorcerers, imps, or ghosts.” This demonstrates a belief in the existence of malevolent forces capable of causing harm and the need for spiritual protection against them. The spells aim to eliminate any “opportunity to surprise or harm” the practitioners.
• The Power of Magical Words/Mantras: The excerpt emphasizes the power of specific incantations to invoke protection. The passage directly quotes the magical words recited by Pradanasura: “In gvale and mahāgvale, find your strength…Tritti trityāvati svāhā, be bound by fear no more.” This underscores the significance of mantras within Buddhist practice as tools for spiritual empowerment and defense.
• Validation by Numerous Buddhas: The efficacy and authority of the spells are affirmed by the endorsement of countless Buddhas. Pradanasura states: “These protective spells, Lord, have been approved by as many Buddhas as there are grains of sand in the Ganges River.” This assertion reinforces the spells’ potency and elevates their importance by connecting them to a vast assembly of enlightened beings.
• Offending the Buddhas by Harming Dharma Preachers: The passage suggests that harming those who uphold the teachings would be a grave offense to all the Buddhas who validated the spells. This creates a strong deterrent against harming preachers, implying that such an act would invite negative consequences on a cosmic scale.

Key Quotes:

• “I, too, will offer protective spells for the benefit of those who preach these teachings. These spells will guard them against any who seek to harm them—be it demons, giants, goblins, sorcerers, imps, or ghosts.” – This quote directly states the purpose and target of the protection offered by Pradanasura.
• “In gvale and mahāgvale, find your strength…Tritti trityāvati svāhā, be bound by fear no more.” – This quote showcases the specific magical words used in the protective spell.
• “These protective spells, Lord, have been approved by as many Buddhas as there are grains of sand in the Ganges River. Any attempt to harm those who uphold these teachings would offend all these Buddhas.” – This quote emphasizes the widespread validation of the spells and the serious consequences of harming those who preach the teachings.

Conclusion:

The excerpt from the Lotus Sutra highlights the importance of protecting those who spread the Dharma, particularly through the use of protective spells offered by Bodhisattva Pradanasura. The spells are presented as potent tools capable of warding off malevolent entities and are validated by an immeasurable number of Buddhas, underscoring their significance within the Buddhist tradition. The passage underscores the inherent risks associated with teaching and the dedication of Bodhisattvas to safeguarding those who undertake this important task.

Chapter 25b–The Invincible Spells of Bodhisattva Pradanasura