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

by The William Altig Choir

(Verse 1) 
Woke up this mornin’, sun a-burnin’ gold 
Opened the Lotus Sutra, a story ages old 
Some folks say it’s too deep, too hard to understand 
Like a hidden treasure, buried deep within the land 
Oh, they say it’ll bring confusion, darkness to your mind 
That ain’t the Buddha’s purpose, no, that’s not the path you’ll find

(Verse 2) 
Nichiren said, “Don’t just chant it, study it too, my friend” 
For higher knowledge, wisdom’s light, it has no end 
You gotta read the words, every line and every phrase 
Comprehend its meaning, through all your weary days 
Like a lonely lantern, on a mountain peak so high 
Its light cuts through the darkness, when the shadows multiply

(Verse 3) 
It’s a journey of exploration, open heart and discerning mind 
Not just for scholars, for all of humankind 
Just one single verse, if you grasp its truth so deep 
Immeasurable merit, from the seeds that you do keep 
A living seed within you, waiting to take root 
Blossoms into wisdom, a life-transforming fruit.

(Verse 4) 
When distorted views rise up, tryin’ to lead folks astray 
Your understanding blazes, banishing the darkened way 
You got to rely on scripture, not on tales that float around 
For truth is in the Dharma, firmly on the Buddha’s ground 
Yeah, that’s how you discern the worth, of all the teachings known 
And help prevent the errors that through the land are sown.

(Verse 5) 
Now, the Buddha said, “Spread this truth with care and grace” 
To share this wisdom, in every time and place 
Be an envoy of the Thus Come One, with every word you speak 
For even one single phrase, strong Bodhisattvas seek 
It’s a guiding light for travelers, a boat across the sea 
Propagatin’ the Law, for all humanity.

(Verse 6) 
Encourage another, just to hear it for a spell 
The merit is immense, more than words can tell 
You’ll gain wisdom and keen faculties, a mind both clear and bright 
Helpin’ others toward enlightenment, with all your sacred might 
From keeping, reading, comprehending, teaching it far and wide 
The Lotus Sutra’s blessings, no longer can they hide.

(Outro) 
So keep on studyin’ the Sutra, let its wisdom fill your soul 
Comprehend its meaning, makin’ your spirit whole 
Discern the correct teachings, and spread the truth so true 
That’s the path to deeper faith, for me and for you.