91 - Was the Buddha Always a Buddha? (The Lotus Sutra's Chapter 16)

91 - Was the Buddha Always a Buddha? (The Lotus Sutra's Chapter 16)

May 29, 2026 · 30 min · Episode 91

About this episode

This episode explores the teaching in the Lotus Sūtra that the Buddha's enlightenment was not a singular event but a timeless awakening.

In this episode, we explore one of the most surprising teachings in the Lotus Sūtra : the idea that the Buddha didn’t become a Buddha under the Bodhi tree, but awakened countless ages ago. His birth, enlightenment, and even his passing are presented as skillful means and are compassionate appearances meant to guide us, not limits on who he is. This teaching reminds us that awakening / enlightenment isn’t distant or rare. It’s timeless, ever‑present, and something we can uncover in ourselves right now. Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer

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