Rissho Kosei-kai Buddhist Center of San Antonio

Rissho Kosei-kai members take refuge in the teachings of the Buddha found in the Threefold Lotus Sutra.  The Lotus Sutra teaches that all beings have the potential to attain Buddhahood (Buddha Nature) through the development of our Wisdom, our Compassion, and our Practice. The concept of interconnectedness taught in the Lotus Sutra can be transformative in our society, in which we sometimes struggle with social division, seeming inequality, and a growing sense of isolation. The Lotus Sutra inspires a deep sense of unity and shared humanity through the idea that every living being has within themselves the potential to attain enlightenment. ​ Within the foundational Buddhist teaching called The Four Noble Truths, is the Truth that all beings experience dissatisfaction/suffering. Through practical application of the wisdom in the Dharma teachings, dissatisfaction and suffering can be transcended. Many people may feel overwhelmed by the pressures of fast-paced life and a pervasive sense of disconnection. The Lotus Sutra's teachings offer a profound solution, encouraging individuals to view their suffering clearly, understand its causes, and apply compassionate wisdom to transform it. The Lotus Flower for which the Lotus Sutra is named, thrives not in spite of the mud it rises from, but because of the mud it rises from!  We too are encouraged to transform and awaken to the Truth of the Dharma by transforming our challenges into wisdom. Rissho Kos-kai emphasizes the importance of compassionate action and humanistic values.  The Lotus Sutra's unifying message has the potential to bring people together, fostering social healing and inclusivity.  In the United States, a melting pot of diverse cultures and religions, this teaching is particularly relevant. The Lotus Sutr's message of unity amidst diversity resonates with our traditional ideals of respect for all cultures, beliefs, and practices.  A pivotal teaching in the Lotus Sutra is the doctrine of the One Vehicle (Ekayana), which explains that while different paths to enlightenment may seem distinct, they ultimately lead to the same goal. This teaching encourages inclusivity and the recognition that different spiritual traditions and paths can coexist harmoniously, each leading to the same ultimate truth. ​ By applying the teachings of the Lotus Sutra, our Practice can inspire a vision of a society flourishing together, engaging with one another in acts of kindness, compassion, and shared responsibility.