“Suppose the various trees and grasses… including herbs growing in the thickets, forests, mountains, ravines, and valleys, on the ground, and by the rivers – All these plants being different in names and forms – Were covered with a dark cloud, and then watered by a rainfall at the same time. “ Simile of Herbs chapter Lotus Sutra Been thinking a lot recently about how the Lotus Sutra invites us to not simply respect our…
The transition from Chapter II to Chapter III in the Lotus Sutra is a precious gift in that one chapter ends with a theme and the next chapter conveniently picks up that theme. It doesn’t always present us with those smooth transitional moments. I wonder though if others give it much thought. It’s hard to tell what one writer will find interesting and of value in their creation. The idea of Joy being an important…
Folks who have practiced with me at the temple know that when I begin leading Odaimoku during our services I always begin with the preface “Let us chant with great joy and confidence.” I’d like to share with you some background behind this as we meditate on the Lotus Sutra. Joy and confidence are two characteristics that arise from within. While it is certainly possible for conditions to be present to induce joy or confidence,…
“Thereupon the World-Honored One said to Gautami (a woman): ‘Why do you look at me so anxiously? You do not think that I assured you of your future attainment of Anuttara-samyak-sam-bodhi because I did not mention you by name, do you? Gautami! I have already said that I assured all the Sravakas of their future attainment of [Anuttara-samyak-sambodhi. Now you wish to know my assurance of your attainment [of Anuttara-samyak-sambodhi].’” Lotus Sutra Chapter XIII To…
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