Please view the lesson offered by Shohaku Okumura-roshi regarding “true reality,” or the Dharma as Suchness (Inmo). This unfolding is the Dharma of the Lotus plant, a tree of anything else, when seen by a Buddha.
Now use the chart below to review the nine components of the Sutra. In this review pay attention to the relational nature of each as we develop an awakening of Buddha Nature.
Finally, compile your thoughts about the Sutra based on Okumra’s talk and the chart below in order to give a three minute presentation on Lotus Sutra.
Following each person’s brief talk I’ll give mine and the remainder of our time will be open discussion.
| Component | Connects To | Purpose |
| One Vehicle | All others | Framework of unity |
| Skillful Means | One Vehicle, Eternal Buddha, Parables | Method of teaching |
| Universal Buddhahood | One Vehicle, Bodhisattvas | Goal for all beings |
| Eternal Buddha | Skillful Means, Faith | Source of ongoing guidance |
| Bodhisattvas | Skillful Means, Universal Buddhahood | Exemplars of the path |
| Faith and Devotion | Eternal Buddha, Practice | Means to realization |
| Parables | All teachings | Teaching tools |
You may wish to review my previous notes on the Lotus Sutra and the references and videos in each.
Sangaku