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The Skillful Physician: A Parable of Compassion and Expedient Means
Once a skillful physician and father, Had children, whom he loved like no other, He had to leave on a long journey, And left them in the care of a nanny. While he was gone, the children ingested poison, And their condition became quite worsen, When the father returned, he found them delirious, And knew…
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The Parable of the Skillful Physician
The parable of the Skillful Physician is found in Chapter 16 of the Lotus Sutra, a Buddhist scripture. The parable is about a wise and skillful doctor who is also the father of many children. One day, the father goes on a long journey, leaving his children in the care of a trustworthy nanny. However,…
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Chapter 15: Insights in Poetic Form
The Lotus Sutra, revered and true Expounds the nature of Buddha too Chapter 15, with its teachings profound Reveals the path to enlightenment found Section 1 tells of the Bodhisattvas’ request To spread the Sutra, but the Buddha stayed abreast He summoned billions of bodhisattvas to show Compassion and power that in him flow Four…
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The Precious Pearl: A Parable of Courage, Victory, and Ultimate Reward
In a land of grandeur and might,A Holy King reigned with wisdom and light.With justice fair, he was loved by all,His kingdom flourished, with peace to recall. The King’s soldiers, brave and bold,Were awarded treasures, of riches untold.Mansions grand, and garments fine,For battles fought, and devils declined. But there was one treasure, so rare and…
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Peace and Joy in the Age of Evil: A Lotus Sutra Poem
In the age of evil, darkness reigns, Where fear and pain and sorrow pains, But for the bodhisattva-mahasattva true, There’s a path to peace and joy, shining bright and new. The Lotus Sutra, a treasure divine, Teaches the way to a heart that’s kind. The Four Principles, a guide to follow, Leading to peace and…
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How to Avoid Greedy and Conceited Monks
Avoiding greedy and conceited monks requires one to be aware of their behavior and to exercise caution when dealing with them. Here are some steps that may be taken to avoid such individuals: Remember, it’s important to be respectful and kind in all interactions, even when dealing with individuals who may not be acting in…
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Embracing the Law with Love and Care
The Lotus Sutra chapter 13, a guide so true, Encouragement to Embrace the Law, for me and you. It highlights the power of a great vow, To spread its teachings, no matter what obstacles may show. Bodhisattvas vow to spread its word, With perseverance, not to be deterred. In the future, two nuns will become…
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The Cultivation of the Paramitas
Siddhartha, young and true of heart, Embarked on a journey from the start, To find enlightenment, to reach the goal, And learn the ways to make his soul whole. He traveled far, he talked to wise, And learned of paramitas, ten in size. Generosity, ethics, patience, too, Diligence, concentration, wisdom too. Skillful means, aspiration, power…
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Inspired by Devadatta
The Lotus Sutra, a guide to enlightenment Chapter 12, Devadatta, its message so bright Shakyamuni Buddha, a king in his past Abandoned his throne, a vow to last To serve the seer who taught him the way A thousand years, he learned day by day Devadatta, the former seer in sight A friendship so strong,…
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The Dragon Girl’s Buddha Realm
Once there was a dragon girl so young and fair, With scales so bright, her eyes shone like a pair, Of diamonds in the sun, as she swam in the sea, Her kin looked up to her, full of joy and glee. One day, she heard of a wondrous, sacred place, A realm where all…