The relationship between a Buddha and his disciples is not limited to a single lifetime. Fundamentally, the mentor-disciple relationship is maintained eternally over the three existences of past, present and future.​​

He (Shakyamuni) says in effect: “After I die, people will make offerings to my relics and thirst to see me. Someone who arouses an earnest seeking mind for the Buddha can meet me without fail. I will appear here on Eagle Peak with many disciples.”  These words abundantly convey the Buddha’s spirit of concern for all those in the world after his passing.​

The relationship between a Buddha and his disciples is not limited to a single lifetime. Fundamentally, the mentor-disciple relationship is maintained eternally over the three existences of past, present and future. I am always together with President Toda. This I understand from having struggled as I have.​

Although the Buddha is close at hand, we cannot sense our connection with the Buddha if we just idly sit around. This passage of the sutra concretely elucidates the attitude we need to have toward the Buddha.