A Lay Buddhist's Dharma Musings, #8 (In the Assembly Hearing the Dharma)

[@Hamza_12348]

Awesome 🤍🙏🏻

[@Gpenguin01]

Another great topic. Thank you! It reminds me of the “Pratyutpannabuddha Saṃmukhāvasthita Samādhi Sūtra” (or Sūtra on the Samādhi for Encountering Face-to-Face the Buddhas of the Present). I find these visualization exercises are quite helpful in reinforcing one’s practice and reinvigorating one’s vigilance in the Dharma.

[@namoamidabuts]

I really appreciate your feedback and comment. You have helped to reassure me that there is a valid basis for this kind of approach to the Dharma. I will try to find the sutra you mentioned. -John

[@Matt-qy7ls]

I love this idea of picturing yourself in the great assembly, surrounded and supported by Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. You are a true inspiration, John. Namo Amida Butsu!

[@namoamidabuts]

It's kind of far out, and I did a lot of meandering, but I appreciate your kind feedback, Matt. Namo Amida Butsu!

[@sifurayshepard5254]

Deep prostrations respect and submission to the Dharma, and to you, John, who elucidated the Dharma through your videos such as this. Speak of imagination. When I read sutras, I have assumed the personal means of feeling myself within the audience. Sometimes I'm sitting next to a group of nagas; rather uncomfortable, as they are not sociable, smell bad, and ... they know me by name!!! Sometimes I find myself beside Sariputra; he also knows me ... Or seems to! I won't extend this fantasy any further; I hope I made my point. Without imagination I would be bereft of that which makes Dharma live in my spirit and mind. Btw... I'm saving to purchase the BDK VERSION of the LOTUS SUTRA. Each translation has it's own peculiar merit. Invaluable. Thanks for being you, my Friend. Namo Myoho Renge Kyo. Ray

[@namoamidabuts]

Thanks for sharing your imaginings my friend. Meanwhile, save your money - I am having a copy sent to you. -John

[@sifurayshepard5254]

Deep prostration of gratitude, mg dear friend. As I've delved ever-more-deeply into the seemingly inexhaustible teachings within this peerless Sutra, I find plenty of inspiration for the imagination. Comfort, joy, reassurance, inspiration; all accessible within this incomparable sutra. Namo myo ho renge Kyo Ray

[@namoamidabuts]

May your immersion and appreciation of the Lotus continue to grow over time. Namu Myoho Renge Kyo