[One Thousand Characters a Day] The Lotus Sutra for Humanities Readers <5> - Gwanse-eum Bosal

Editor's NoteThe turbulent sea of life, also called 'Gohae (苦海),' is always bound to have waves. However, just as a deeply rooted tree does not easily fall, if one understands well who they are and finds their place in the world, they can become more steadfast even amidst fierce storms. By knowing oneself and grasping the extent of one's potential, one moves toward a greater world of happiness. "The Lotus Sutra is, in short, a story about the Buddha, and at the same time, your story, which means that you are a precious being." These are the words of Professor Ha Young-su, author of The Lotus Sutra for Humanities Readers. Word count: 737.

"If countless sentient beings, when suffering all kinds of anguish, call upon the name of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva with a single-minded heart, Avalokitesvara immediately hears that voice and frees them from all suffering."

(Omitted)

Life is a continuous series of hardships. This world is also called 'Gohae (苦海).' It is truly reassuring when someone watches over and accompanies us warmly on our journey across this sea of suffering. In such a journey, encountering Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva is to form a very precious connection.

With the help of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, we can escape the dangers and sufferings we face. Also, when studying the Buddha’s teachings, Avalokitesvara appears in forms suited to our abilities and circumstances to expound the Dharma.

Just as a mother lovingly cares for her child to help them grow, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva spares no effort in helping us become mature beings endowed with compassion and wisdom. Perhaps for this reason, reading the Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva’s Universal Gate Chapter or chanting Avalokitesvara’s name brings warm comfort and courage. The Lotus Sutra often uses the metaphor of the relationship between Buddha and sentient beings as that of a father and child; if the Buddha is the father, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva can be seen as the mother of sentient beings.

Furthermore, in the latter part of the Lotus Sutra, several great bodhisattvas appear alongside Avalokitesvara. This reminds us that our lives are not lived by our own strength alone. Although we may not be aware of it, we are who we are today because of the help of many others. I believe this is the meaning behind the Buddhist teaching of dependent origination.

- Ha Young-su, The Lotus Sutra for Humanities Readers, Bulgwang Publishing, 16,000 KRW