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

Learn this Buddhist classic, the Lotus Sutra

The Profound Significance of Respecting the Keeper of the Lotus Sutra: An Analysis of the Buddha’s Instruction to Universal-Sage Bodhisattva

The Lotus Sutra, revered as the “king of sutras” within Mahayana Buddhism 1, holds a central position due to its revolutionary teaching that all beings, without exception, possess the inherent potential to attain Buddhahood.2 This profound scripture culminates in Chapter 28, titled “The Encouragement of Bodhisattva Universally Worthy,” where the Buddha imparts crucial instructions regarding the era following his parinirvana.9 Within this chapter, the Buddha’s specific instruction to Universal-Sage Bodhisattva to rise, greet, receive, and respect the “keeper of this sūtra” as one would respect the Buddha carries immense weight, underscoring the extraordinary value and importance attributed to those who dedicate themselves to upholding the Lotus Sutra. The placement of this directive at the very conclusion of the Lotus Sutra suggests its paramount importance as a final message, emphasizing the practical implications of the entire teaching for the period after the Buddha’s earthly presence. Furthermore, the direct address to a prominent bodhisattva like Universal-Sage highlights the gravity and authority of this instruction, indicating that it is not merely a suggestion but a significant directive for all followers of the Mahayana path.

Chapter 28 commences with the majestic arrival of Bodhisattva Universal Worthy from the east, accompanied by an immeasurable assembly of great bodhisattvas, alongside various heavenly beings, dragons, and other mythical creatures, all manifesting their freely exercised transcendental powers, dignity, and virtue.9 The very lands they traversed quaked and trembled, jeweled lotus flowers rained down, and countless forms of music played, signifying auspiciousness.9 Upon reaching Mount Gridhrakuta in the saha world, Bodhisattva Universal Worthy paid homage to Shakyamuni Buddha, circumambulating him seven times to the right, and declared that he had journeyed from afar, from the land of the Buddha King Above Jeweled Dignity and Virtue, specifically to listen to and accept the Lotus Sutra.9 Following this declaration, Universal-Sage Bodhisattva posed a significant question to the Buddha, inquiring how good men and women would be able to obtain this Lotus Sutra in the time after the Thus Come One (the Buddha) had entered extinction.9 This inquiry sets the stage for the Buddha’s subsequent teachings in the chapter, which include the profound instruction regarding the respect due to the “keeper of this sūtra.” The arrival of Universal-Sage from a distant Buddha-land emphasizes the universal reach and profound impact of the Lotus Sutra, drawing beings from other realms to partake in its transformative teachings. Moreover, the timing of Universal-Sage’s question, immediately after hearing the Lotus Sutra expounded, reveals a deep concern for the future preservation and accessibility of these vital teachings, especially in the absence of the Buddha’s physical form.

The “keeper of this sūtra,” as described in Chapter 28, encompasses anyone who wholeheartedly embraces and diligently practices the Lotus Sutra.9 This includes individuals who accept, uphold, read, recite, memorize correctly, and practice the sutra as it prescribes, and even those who undertake the task of copying it.9 The designation applies to all practitioners, whether they are monks, nuns, laymen, or laywomen.9 These keepers are characterized by their dedicated cultivation of the teachings and their earnest efforts to comprehend the profound principles contained within the Lotus Sutra.9 The research material highlights a deep and significant connection between the “keeper” and the Buddha himself.9 Such individuals are regarded as having essentially seen Shakyamuni Buddha and heard the sutra directly from his own mouth.9 They are deemed worthy of the Buddha’s highest praise, being told “Excellent!” and are likened to those who have been caressed on the head and covered with his robe, symbolizing a profound spiritual connection and blessing.9 Furthermore, those who uphold the Lotus Sutra are considered to be actively carrying out the very practices of Universal Worthy Bodhisattva.9 The chapter also emphasizes the substantial merits, virtues, and future spiritual attainments associated with being a “keeper”.9 These practitioners accumulate immense merit and virtue through their devotion.9 They are assured of making progress towards enlightenment, overcoming negative influences such as Mara, and ultimately attaining Buddhahood.9 Moreover, they receive the unwavering protection and support of Universal-Sage Bodhisattva, as well as other Buddhas, ensuring their well-being on their spiritual journey.9 The text also promises positive future rebirths and the fulfillment of their spiritual aspirations.9 The definition of “keeper” transcends mere intellectual understanding or the act of recitation; it signifies a profound commitment to embodying the teachings of the Lotus Sutra in the entirety of one’s life. The deep connection established between the “keeper” and the Buddha elevates the status of these practitioners, suggesting they are not simply followers but vital and indispensable links in the ongoing transmission and perpetuation of the Dharma in the world.

Characteristic of a “Keeper of the Sūtra”Associated Benefit/Connection
Accepts, upholds, reads, recites, practicesEngages in the core activities that preserve and transmit the Lotus Sutra.
Memorizes correctly, copies the sutraDeepens understanding and ensures accurate transmission of the teachings.
Seen Shakyamuni BuddhaIndicates a profound spiritual connection and recognition by the Buddha.
Heard the sutra from the Buddha’s mouthSignifies direct reception and understanding of the ultimate teaching.
Praised by the Buddha (“Excellent!”)Acknowledgment and validation of their dedication and practice.
Likened to being caressed and coveredSymbolizes the reception of blessings and the inheritance of the Buddha’s Dharma.
Practices of Universal WorthyDemonstrates a commitment to the bodhisattva path and the ideals of the Lotus Sutra.
Gains immense merit and virtueAccumulates positive karma leading to spiritual progress.
Progresses towards enlightenmentAdvances on the path to awakening and liberation.
Conquers Mara and attains BuddhahoodAchieves the ultimate goal of Buddhist practice.
Receives protection from BuddhasEnsured safety and guidance on the spiritual journey.
Experiences positive rebirthsContinues to benefit from their practice in future lives.
Wishes fulfilledSpiritual aspirations and needs are met as a result of their devotion.
Not attached to worldly pleasuresDemonstrates progress in detaching from suffering-causing desires.
Upright, with correct memoryEmbodies ethical conduct and mindfulness, essential for spiritual growth.
Free from the three poisonsOvercomes greed, anger, and ignorance, the root causes of suffering.
Desires little, knows contentmentCultivates inner peace and freedom from material attachments.
Practices like Universal-SageEmulates the conduct of a highly revered bodhisattva, deepening their own practice.

The Buddha’s instruction to respect the “keeper of this sūtra” is deeply rooted in the foundational Buddhist principle of respecting all beings.15 This ethic is built upon several core tenets. The First Precept, a cornerstone of Buddhist morality, emphasizes refraining from taking life and cultivating a profound respect for all living creatures.15 This extends beyond merely abstaining from killing to actively fostering non-violence and compassion towards every form of existence. Furthermore, Buddhism espouses the concept of equality, recognizing that all beings share the fundamental desire to experience happiness and avoid pain, suffering, and death.16 This shared aspiration forms the basis for treating all life with inherent dignity. The principle of reciprocity further reinforces this ethic, advocating that one should not act towards others in any way that one would not want them to act towards oneself.16 In Mahayana Buddhism, the Bodhisattva Ideal plays a crucial role, embodying the aspiration to attain enlightenment not just for personal liberation but for the benefit of all sentient beings, driven by profound compassion and altruism.15 This ideal encourages the recognition of the interconnectedness of all life, fostering a sense of empathy and responsibility towards others, as the well-being of each being is understood to be intertwined.15 The cultivation of compassion (karuna), the empathetic understanding of the suffering of others and the desire to alleviate it, and non-violence (ahimsa), the abstention from causing harm in any form, are central to this ethical framework.15 These ethical principles are underpinned by profound philosophical understandings. The doctrine of no-self (anatman) and emptiness (sunyata) reveals the lack of an inherent, permanent self and the interdependent nature of all phenomena.17 This understanding dissolves the illusion of separate, isolated existence, highlighting the interconnectedness of all beings. The law of karma further guides ethical conduct, emphasizing that actions, whether wholesome or unwholesome, have corresponding consequences, both in the present and future.19 Dharma is understood as the universal law that governs both the physical and moral order of the universe, providing an ultimate foundation for ethical behavior.17 Moreover, the concept of Buddhist humanism emphasizes faith in the inherent dignity and potential of all human beings.18 The principle of respecting the “keeper of this sūtra” is therefore a natural extension of this broader Buddhist ethic of respecting all beings, amplified by the particular significance and transformative power of the Lotus Sutra. The foundational principles of compassion and non-harming inherently extend to those who dedicate themselves to preserving and practicing the Dharma, especially a sutra held in such high regard. Furthermore, the philosophical understanding of emptiness and no-self reinforces the interconnectedness of all beings, making the respect for a “keeper” a reflection of respect for the potential Buddhahood within oneself and all others. Recognizing the lack of inherent self and the interdependent nature of reality dissolves the boundaries between individuals, making the well-being and spiritual progress of others, particularly those upholding the Dharma, intrinsically important.

The profound instruction to respect the “keeper of this sūtra” finds further resonance in the Mahayana Buddhist doctrine of Buddha-nature (tathagatagarbha).23 This concept posits that within every sentient being lies an inherent potential for enlightenment, a seed of Buddhahood waiting to be awakened.24 This potential is often described as the presence of the “embryo” or “womb” of the Tathagata within each individual.24 Buddha-nature is also understood as the luminous, pure mind, which is temporarily obscured by defilements and negative emotions.24 While interpretations of Buddha-nature vary across different schools of thought, ranging from a latent potential to an intrinsic essence or even the fundamental nature of reality itself 24, the core understanding remains that the capacity for enlightenment is universal. This doctrine of Buddha-nature provides a compelling rationale for the necessity of respecting all beings, including the devoted “keeper of this sūtra”.3 If every sentient being inherently possesses the potential for Buddhahood, then each individual holds intrinsic worth and is deserving of the utmost respect.3 The “keeper of this sūtra” is actively engaged in the process of cultivating and realizing this inherent potential, making them particularly worthy of reverence as both an exemplar and a guide for others on the path. Therefore, respecting the “keeper” can be understood as an act of honoring the Buddha-nature that resides within them and acknowledging their dedicated efforts towards achieving enlightenment. The doctrine of Buddha-nature offers a robust ontological foundation for the instruction to respect the “keeper,” as it recognizes the inherent sacredness and untapped potential within every individual. Because the very essence of Buddhahood is believed to reside within all beings, anyone committed to realizing and propagating this profound truth, such as the keeper of the Lotus Sutra, embodies this potential in a significant way and thus warrants the highest regard. Furthermore, recognizing Buddha-nature helps to overcome any feelings of contempt for others and fosters a strong sense of confidence in one’s own potential for enlightenment.28 This aligns perfectly with the respect encouraged for those who are further along the path, such as the dedicated “keeper of this sūtra.” Understanding that everyone shares the same fundamental potential eliminates any basis for arrogance or for belittling the spiritual endeavors of others. Instead, it encourages practitioners to recognize and deeply value the efforts of those who are actively engaged in the path of Dharma.

Various commentaries and analyses of Chapter 28 of the Lotus Sutra offer valuable insights into the meaning and significance of the Buddha’s instruction.6 These interpretations often highlight the pivotal role of Universal Worthy Bodhisattva as the one who requests the Dharma on behalf of all beings with the appropriate potential, emphasizing his pervasive presence and influence.14 Commentaries also underscore the importance of the four conditions that the Buddha outlines for obtaining the Lotus Sutra in the era following his passing.9 Furthermore, they detail Universal Worthy’s profound vows to protect and provide unwavering support to those who diligently uphold the Lotus Sutra during the challenging times of the Latter Day of the Law.9 These analyses also delve into the rewards promised to those who show respect to the “keeper” and the severe consequences awaiting those who choose to disparage them, as described within the chapter.9 Some commentaries emphasize the deep veneration for the Law that is implied in Chapter 28, highlighting the sacred nature of the Lotus Sutra.31 The consistent assertion across various sources that the Lotus Sutra stands as the foremost of all sutras further elevates the significance of those who dedicate themselves to its practice.1 These commentaries collectively illuminate the profound meaning and critical importance of respecting the “keeper” as one would the Buddha himself. They emphasize the fundamental idea that honoring the “keeper” is, in essence, a direct way of honoring the Lotus Sutra and the Buddha’s ultimate teachings. The detailed accounts of Universal-Sage Bodhisattva’s protective vows in these commentaries further underscore the notion that practitioners of the Lotus Sutra are under a special dispensation of care and guidance from a highly revered bodhisattva, thus warranting profound respect from all others.

The instruction to respect the “keeper of this sūtra” is interpreted and practiced in diverse ways across different Buddhist traditions. In Nichiren Buddhism, the Lotus Sutra is revered as the highest teaching of Shakyamuni Buddha, and practitioners of the sutra are considered to be the Buddha’s envoys in the Latter Day of the Law.4 The example of Bodhisattva Never Disparaging, who showed profound respect to all individuals recognizing their inherent Buddha-nature, serves as a guiding principle.41 Respect among fellow practitioners is strongly emphasized, as they are viewed as future Buddhas, and slander against them is strictly avoided.41 In Theravada Buddhism, while the Pali Canon holds primary authority and the Lotus Sutra is not typically recognized as the Buddha’s direct word 3, the Dhamma itself is considered the teacher after the Buddha’s passing.55 Respect for Dharma teachers, who act as spiritual friends (kalyana-mitta) guiding practitioners on the path, is highly valued.55 While the Lotus Sutra may not be central, the underlying principles of respect for those who uphold the Dharma resonate with Theravada ethics. Zen Buddhism views the Lotus Sutra as an important Mahayana text, often interpreted through the lens of Zen principles such as Buddha-nature and skillful means.8 The teacher-student relationship is paramount, with deep respect accorded to qualified Zen teachers (Roshi) who have received Dharma Transmission and guide students towards realizing their own Buddha-nature.8 In Tibetan Buddhism, the Lotus Sutra is generally accepted as a significant Mahayana scripture.2 There is profound reverence for the Guru or Lama, considered essential for spiritual progress, particularly within Vajrayana practices.73 Respect is also shown to those who uphold and teach the Dharma, recognizing their crucial role in guiding others towards enlightenment.89 While the specific interpretations and practices may differ across these traditions, the fundamental principle of respecting those who dedicate themselves to the Dharma, especially the profound teachings of the Lotus Sutra, remains a significant common thread. Notably, the Nichiren tradition places a particularly strong emphasis on respecting practitioners of the Lotus Sutra, aligning very closely with the Buddha’s instruction in Chapter 28.

The instruction to respect the “keeper of this sūtra” is deeply intertwined with the broader themes that permeate the Lotus Sutra.2 It directly supports the central theme of the universality of Buddhahood by recognizing the inherent Buddha-nature within the “keeper” and, by extension, all beings.2 The “keeper” is actively engaged in the bodhisattva path through their dedication to practicing and propagating the Dharma, a path emphasized throughout the Lotus Sutra as the noblest form of Buddhist practice.3 The Buddha’s instruction itself can be understood as a skillful means (upaya) to encourage the preservation and continued practice of the Lotus Sutra in the ages to come.2 By honoring those who uphold the Lotus Sutra, the continuity of the eternal nature of the Buddha and the Dharma is ensured, as these keepers serve as vital links in the transmission of these timeless teachings.3 This specific instruction powerfully reinforces the overall message of the Lotus Sutra by highlighting the profound value of its teachings and those who dedicate their lives to them. It fosters a supportive and respectful environment that is conducive to the flourishing of the Dharma in the world. The directive to respect the “keeper” aligns perfectly with the Lotus Sutra’s core message of universal Buddhahood by acknowledging the potential for enlightenment that is embodied by these dedicated practitioners. By emphasizing the importance of those who uphold the Lotus Sutra, the instruction actively promotes the continuation of the bodhisattva path, inspiring others to follow their noble example in striving for enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings.

In conclusion, the Buddha’s instruction to Universal-Sage Bodhisattva in Chapter 28 of the Lotus Sutra to rise, greet, receive, and respect the “keeper of this sūtra” as one would respect the Buddha holds profound significance within the context of Mahayana Buddhism. It underscores the immense value placed on those who dedicate themselves to the preservation and practice of the Lotus Sutra, a scripture that proclaims the universal potential for Buddhahood. This instruction is deeply rooted in core Buddhist ethics, including respect for all beings, compassion, and the understanding of interconnectedness, and is further illuminated by the doctrine of Buddha-nature, which recognizes the inherent potential for enlightenment within every individual. Commentaries on the Lotus Sutra consistently highlight the supreme importance of this scripture, thus elevating the status of its practitioners. While interpretations and practices may vary across different Buddhist traditions, the underlying principle of respecting those who uphold the Dharma remains a common thread. The Nichiren tradition, in particular, closely aligns with this instruction, emphasizing profound reverence for practitioners of the Lotus Sutra. This teaching is intrinsically linked to the broader themes of the Lotus Sutra, such as the universality of Buddhahood and the importance of the bodhisattva path. The Buddha’s directive serves as a timeless guide for fostering a thriving spiritual community, emphasizing the critical importance of honoring the Dharma and those who dedicate their lives to its transmission. The instruction to respect the “keeper of this sūtra” as one would respect the Buddha stands as a powerful testament to the value of the Dharma and those who commit themselves to its preservation and practice, offering enduring wisdom for cultivating a vibrant and supportive spiritual community.

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