By the single practice of taking faith in Myoho-Renge-Kyo, there are no benefits that will not be drawn to you; and there are no benefits that will fail to come and no good causes that will fail to be accumulated.
written by Nichiren Daishonin, 13th century Japan
The Lotus Sutra is the king of all sutras. Furthermore, in the same chapter, the great benefit of the Lotus Sutra is expounded using 12 similes. From these 12 similes, we can understand that the Lotus Sutra is able to save all living beings, release them from their sufferings, bestow benefits upon them, and fulfill their wishes. For example, the Lotus Sutra is like:
A clear, cool pond satisfying those who are thirsty
A fire for one who is cold
A robe for one who is bare
A group of merchants finding a leader
A child finding her mother
Someone finding a ship in which to cross the water
A sick man finding a physician
Someone in the darkness finding a lamp
A poor person finding riches
The people finding a ruler
An export trader finding his way to the sea
A torch that illuminates the darkness
In the same way, the Lotus Sutra can enable all people to be free from discomfort, illness, and pain. It can break the chains of birth and death.*
Visit Myosenji Temple Sunday, June 3rd
Sunday, June 3rd, we will host a lecture on the Ten Worlds by our Chief Priest. Rev Sakabe will explain about the Lotus Sutra and why acquiring the Buddha’s wisdom through the practice of chanting lets you change your life and find happiness.
- Learn how to chant Nam Myoho Renge Kyo and properly use the Juzu Beads, Buddhist prayer beads.
- Q&A with our Chief Priest.
- The meeting starts at 2:00 pm and concludes around 3:15 pm. Open to the public.
- 310 University Blvd West, Silver Spring, MD 20901
If you have decided to become a Buddhist or are interested in learning how to become a Buddhist, after Sunday’s meeting (about 3:30 pm) Rev Sakabe will be performing the Acceptance of the Precept Ceremony, the ceremony where you become a Buddhist.
