Predictions occur on six occasions [in the Lotus Sutra]; on five occasions the prediction is given by the Buddha and in one occasion it is given by a bodhisattva. The predictions given by the tathāgatas include those for Śāriputra, Mahākāśyapa and the other well-known [disciples]. Since they will have different names [as buddhas], they receive their predictions separately. The five hundred disciples, including Pūrṇa and the others, and the twelve thousand disciples are given their predictions at the same time, since they will all have the same name [as buddhas]. Those who have more to learn and those who do not [have more to learn] all have the same name [as buddhas], and since they are not well known they are given their predictions together. That the Tathāgata gives Devadatta his prediction separately shows the Tathāgata has no enmity. That the nuns and maidens of the heavenly realm receive their predictions from the Buddha shows that women, either lay Buddhists or renunciants, who cultivate the bodhisattva practice will also realize the fruit of buddhahood.

It should be known that the prediction of enlightenment given by a bodhisattva is illustrated as follows in the chapter “Bodhisattva Sadāparibhūta” [where it says]:

[D]oing obeisance and praising them, he would make this proclamation, “I do not disrespect you. You will all certainly become buddhas.” This shows that all living beings have buddha-nature.

Regarding the disciples’ attainment of a prediction, [it should be known that] there are four types of disciples: 1) disciples who are fixed [in the path of the Small Vehicle], 2) arrogant disciples, 3) disciples who have retreated from the thought of enlightenment, and 4) transformation disciples.

The two types of disciples who receive a prediction from the tathāgatas are the transformation disciples and the disciples who have retreated from the thought of enlightenment. Since disciples who are fixed [in the path of the Small Vehicle] and arrogant disciples have faculties that are not yet mature, they are not given predictions of enlightenment.

Regarding a bodhisattva giving a prediction, it shows expedient means being used to cause [the disciples] to produce the thought of enlightenment.