On Reprimanding Hachiman Chapter19
Now this Great Bodhisattva Hachiman, whose original form is the preacher of the Lotus Sutra in India, a sutra that speaks no lies, has appeared in a temporary manifestation in the country of Japan, proclaiming the word “uprightness,” which represents the sutra, and vowing that he will dwell on the head of a worthy person. If so, then although the Great Bodhisattva has burned down his sanctuary and ascended to the heavens, still, if there are practitioners of the Lotus Sutra here in Japan, he should take up his abode where they are.
The Lotus Sutra says in its fifth volume, “The heavenly beings day and night will for the sake of the Law constantly guard and protect them.”47 If we go by this passage of the sutra, then it would seem that Brahmā, Shakra, the gods of the sun and moon, and the four heavenly kings ought day and night to guard and protect those persons who chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo.
Again, in its sixth volume it says, “Sometimes I speak of myself, sometimes of others; sometimes I present myself, sometimes others; sometimes I show my own actions, sometimes those of others.”48 Bodhisattva Perceiver of the World’s Sounds manifests himself in thirty-three different forms, and Bodhisattva Wonderful Sound manifests himself in thirty-four forms. Why then should not Shakyamuni Buddha, the lord of teachings, manifest himself as Great Bodhisattva Hachiman?
T’ien-t’ai says, “The Thus Come One manifests his form in all of the Ten Worlds, taking on a variety of different appearances.”49
Notes
49. The Profound Meaning of the Lotus Sutra