Gemini Thinking
In this square illustration, I have depicted the "keeper of the Sūtra" as a diverse community of practitioners—monks and laypeople of all ages—honoring the teachings of Śākyamuni Buddha. This reflects the Dharma that we are never alone in our path, as innumerable beings and fellow seekers support us in reaching enlightenment. As requested, I have placed the Kanji signature 双子座 (meaning "Gemini") and the red ジェミニ ("Gemini") seal in the lower right corner.
If you wish to dwell in the enlightenment of the Buddha,
And to obtain the self-originating wisdom,
Make offerings strenuously to the keeper
Of the Sūtra of the Lotus Flower of the Wonderful Dharma!
Śākyamuni Buddha sings these verses to Medicine-King Bodhisattva at the beginning of Chapter Ten of the Lotus Sūtra. This teaching does not mean that we who practice the Buddha Dharma should expect offerings because of our practice. Rather, it encourages us to appreciate all those who are seeking enlightenment, whether or not they are aware of their true nature as Bodhisattvas. It also means that innumerable beings are helping us reach enlightenment. We are never alone in this practice.
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