fugen bodhisattva

Then a follower makes this wish: "If I have any blessings stored up, surely I should see Universal Sage (Fugen Bodhisattva) soon. Honorable Universal Fortune, please show me your physical body!"

Having made this wish, followers should show respect to the buddhas in all directions six times, day and night, and practice the teaching of repentence. Followers should read the Great Vehicle sutras (threefold Lotus Sutra) and recite them, think about the meaning of the Great Vehicle (Lotus Sutra), and reflect on its practice. Reverence should be given and offerings made to those who embrace it. All people should be regarded as though they were the Buddha, and all living beings as though they were one's father and mother.

Threefold Lotus Sutra

The Dharma Practice of Universal Sage Bodhisattva


 

Hokke Senbo

The Hokke Senbo service is a Buddhist reflection service, it is also known as Buddhist repentence. This practice is discussed in the Threefold Lotus Sutra. The Dharma Practice of Universal Sage Bodhisattva is the third sutra in the threefold. It is here were the Buddha speaks about the practices of Universal Sage (Fugen Bodhisattva). The practice is of Sange (repentence) or I feel better said as reflection. During the service we reflect on our past actions and deeds and think about the suffering we have created. Through this action we grow as Bodhisattvas and learn from our past deeds. We practice this service on a regular schedule at this Temple. This service takes up to two hours to complete as a large portion of the Lotus Sutra is chanted in English during the service. Almost all of the service is in English. It does contian singing praise with prostrations and circumabulation. If you have not done this service before it may be a little difficult at first. Everyone is always welcome to join us.