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

“O Splendid Virtue! Bodhisattva Wonderful Music can save and protect various living beings in the Saha world. This is because Bodhisattva Wonderful Music transforms and manifests himself differently to expound the Lotus sutra for all living beings in the Saha world. Yet his divine powers, transformations, and wisdom will never be undermined or deteriorated.”(LS 24:2.8)…

In assembly vast of seekers wise,Bodhisattvas claim the highest prize,As Lotus Sutra’s wisdom sings,The foremost scripture, king of kings! Just as Buddha’s sovereign reign,Guides the Law on Dharma’s plane,The Lotus Sutra, a peerless gem,Rules all sutras, none condemn. The Lotus Sutra 23: 2.16 (Poetic Version) This verse celebrates the Lotus Sutra, which is considered one…

“For countless eons, I’ve practiced the highest, hard-to-achieve enlightenment. Now, I pass this knowledge to you. Focus on spreading these teachings to improve everyone’s lives, bringing them more happiness and success.” The Lotus Sutra, Chapter 22:1.1 The above passage highlights the importance of diligently practicing and propagating the Dharma, or the teachings of the Buddha.…

Introduction The Lotus Sutra is a central text in the Mahayana tradition of Buddhism, containing essential teachings that guide practitioners towards enlightenment. This essay focuses on Chapter 21, “Divine Powers of the Tathagata,” which explores the vow of bodhisattvas-mahasattvas, the manifestation of divine powers, and the significance of the Lotus Sutra in Buddhism. To better…

I. Introduction The Lotus Sutra, one of the essential texts in Mahayana Buddhism, presents a wide range of teachings that promote enlightenment and spiritual growth. Among its numerous chapters, Chapter 20, titled “The Bodhisattva Never Disparaging,” conveys the importance of respect and reverence for all beings. This essay will explore the story of Bodhisattva Never…

Introduction “The Benefits of the Teacher of the Law,” the nineteenth chapter of the Lotus Sutra, presents a comprehensive examination of the merits and rewards derived from upholding, teaching, and practicing the Lotus Sutra. This essay will discuss the key themes of the chapter, highlighting the profound impact of propagating the Lotus Sutra and the…

Introduction: The Lotus Sutra is a central Buddhist scripture that teaches the concept of the Bodhisattva, individuals who vow to attain enlightenment to help others. It is highly regarded in Mahayana Buddhism for its emphasis on the universal potential for Buddhahood. Chapter 18, titled “The Merits of Joyful Acceptance,” highlights the importance of a positive…

Introduction In Chapter 18 of the Lotus Sutra, the text discusses the profound effects of joy as a catalyst for the successful propagation of the Law. Bodhisattva Maitreya, curious about the extent of the benefits received by those who feel spontaneous pleasure upon hearing the Lotus Sutra, poses this question to the Buddha. This essay…

The Lotus Sutra, a central text in Mahayana Buddhism, elucidates the teachings of the Buddha to guide individuals on their journey toward enlightenment. It presents the concept of skillful means and the potential for every being to attain Buddhahood. Chapter 17, titled “Distinctions in Merits,” delves into the advantages of embracing the eternal lifespan of…