Chapter 17. Distinction of Merits
In this chapter, the Buddha states that if we hear these teachings without doubt, we will gain immense merit.
If one hears of the long life span of the Tathagata and understands its profound meaning, the merit they obtain will be limitless, and they will certainly open the same unexcelled wisdom as the Buddha. Furthermore, if virtuous men or women hear of the Buddha’s eternal life and believe it without doubt, understanding its essence, they will be able to see the Buddha always present on Vulture Peak, surrounded by a host of Great Bodhisattvas and Voice-hearers, preaching the Lotus Sutra. If the Buddha is neither born nor extinguished, he is here right now. If we are virtuous people with pure senses and pure hearts, we can witness the assembly of the Lotus Sutra. I believe everyone here also believes this without doubt; it is only that we do not yet fully grasp the profound meaning, which is why we have not yet seen the scene on Vulture Peak.
Chapter 18&19
Chapters Seventeen and Eighteen both discuss the merits of hearing the “Life Span of the Tathagata” chapter and upholding the Lotus Sutra. Chapter Nineteen, “The Merits of the Teacher of the Law,” also explains the benefits of upholding, hearing, reading, reciting, copying, and explaining the Lotus Sutra.