Sutra of the Past Vows of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, Volume 3
Chapter 10: Comparing the Merits and Conditions of Giving
At that time, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Mahasattva, empowered by the Buddha’s divine authority, rose from his seat, knelt with joined palms, and addressed the Buddha: “World-Honored One, I have observed the beings in the paths of karma and compared the merits of giving. Some are weighty and some are light; some bring blessings for one lifetime, some for ten lifetimes, and some bring great blessings for a hundred or a thousand lifetimes. How can this be? I humbly wish the World-Honored One to explain this to me.”
At this moment, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva — a great bodhisattva who vowed to save all suffering beings — felt the empowerment of the Buddha’s divine authority. He rose from his seat, knelt on both knees with palms joined, and respectfully said to the Buddha: “World-Honored One, I have observed beings in the six realms of rebirth and compared the merits of their giving — that is, sharing what they have with others. Some merits are light and some are weighty; some people enjoy blessings for one lifetime, some for ten lifetimes, and some enjoy great blessings for a hundred or even a thousand lifetimes. How can this be? I hope the World-Honored One will explain this to me.”
Then the Buddha said to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva: “I shall now, in this assembly at the Palace of Trayastrimsa Heaven, explain the relative weight of the merits of giving in Jambudvipa. Listen carefully, and I will tell you.”
The Buddha then said to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva: “Right now, in this great assembly at the Palace of Trayastrimsa Heaven — the palace on the thirty-third heaven — I will explain to everyone the varying degrees of merit from acts of giving in the human world. Listen carefully, and I will explain it to you.”
Ksitigarbha said to the Buddha: “I have doubts about this matter and would gladly hear your teaching.”
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva replied to the Buddha: “This is exactly the question I have in my mind. I would be most glad to hear your instruction.”
The Buddha said to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva: “In Jambudvipa, there are kings, ministers, great elders, great Kshatriyas, great Brahmins, and others. If they encounter the most destitute and impoverished — even those who are hunchbacked, disabled, mute, deaf, intellectually impaired, or blind, all those with various impairments — and when these great kings and others wish to give, if they can do so with great compassion, humbly and with a smile, personally distributing gifts to all, or having others do so, speaking gently with words of comfort, then the merit gained by these kings and others is equal to the merit of making offerings to Buddhas as numerous as the sands of a hundred Ganges Rivers. Why is this? Because these kings and others gave rise to great compassion toward those who are most destitute and impaired. Therefore, their blessings bring such a reward. For a hundred thousand lifetimes, they shall always possess the seven treasures in abundance, let alone clothing, food, and daily necessities.”
The Buddha told Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva: “In our human world — known as Jambudvipa — there are kings, ministers, wealthy elders, nobles, and spiritual practitioners of all kinds. If they encounter the poorest and most destitute people, even those who have physical disabilities, who cannot speak, whose ears cannot hear, or whose eyes cannot see — these unfortunate people with incomplete bodies. When these kings and ministers wish to give, if they can do so with great compassion, setting aside their status and wearing a smile, personally handing gifts to each person, or having others deliver them, and also speaking gentle words of comfort and encouragement — then the blessings these kings and ministers receive are as great as having made offerings to Buddhas as numerous as the sands of the Ganges! Why? Because these kings and ministers generated genuine compassion toward the most destitute, lowly, and physically impaired people, and that is why they receive such tremendous blessings. For a hundred thousand lifetimes, they will always possess the seven precious treasures — gold, silver, lapis lazuli, and so on — not to mention food, clothing, and everything else they need. They will never lack anything.”
“Furthermore, Ksitigarbha, if in future ages there are kings, down to Brahmins, who encounter Buddhist stupas and temples, or images of the Buddha, or even images of Bodhisattvas, Shravakas, or Pratyekabuddhas, and personally prepare offerings and give, these kings shall become Indra for three kalpas, enjoying supreme and wondrous bliss. If they can dedicate the merit of this giving to the Dharma Realm, these great kings shall become Great Brahma Kings for ten kalpas.”
The Buddha continued: “Ksitigarbha, if in the future there are kings or nobles who encounter Buddhist stupas, temples, or images of the Buddha, or even images of Bodhisattvas, Shravakas — those who attained awakening by hearing the Dharma — or Pratyekabuddhas — those who attained awakening by contemplating the laws of nature on their own — and they personally prepare offerings and give, then these kings will become Indra — the king of heaven — for three kalpas, an immensely long time, enjoying the most exquisite happiness. If they also dedicate this merit of giving to all sentient beings, these kings will become Great Brahma Kings — rulers of an even higher heavenly realm — for ten kalpas.”
“Furthermore, Ksitigarbha, if in future ages there are kings, down to Brahmins, who encounter ancient stupas and temples of former Buddhas, or sutras and images that have become damaged and dilapidated, and they can resolve to repair them — these kings, whether they undertake the work themselves or encourage others, gathering a hundred or even a thousand people to give and form connections — shall for a hundred thousand lifetimes always be Wheel-Turning Kings. And those others who joined in giving shall for a hundred thousand lifetimes always be rulers of small kingdoms. Moreover, if before the stupas and temples they give rise to the thought of dedication, these kings and all such people shall ultimately attain Buddhahood, for the rewards of such actions are immeasurable and boundless.”
“Furthermore, Ksitigarbha, if in the future there are kings or nobles who come across ancient Buddhist stupas, temples, or sutras and images that have fallen into disrepair, and they resolve to restore them — whether by funding the work themselves or by rallying others, even gathering hundreds or thousands of people to contribute together — then these kings will be Wheel-Turning Sage Kings — the greatest of kings who rule by righteous law — for a hundred thousand lifetimes. Those who joined in giving will also be kings of smaller kingdoms for a hundred thousand lifetimes. And if they can further make a vow before those stupas and temples, dedicating all merit to all sentient beings, then these kings and everyone who participated will ultimately attain Buddhahood. The rewards of such actions are truly immeasurable and boundless!”
“Furthermore, Ksitigarbha, in future ages, if there are kings and Brahmins who see the elderly and sick, and women in childbirth, and in a single thought give rise to great compassion, providing them with medicine, food and drink, and bedding, so that they may be at ease — the blessings from this are most inconceivable. For a hundred kalpas they shall constantly be lords of the Pure Abodes; for two hundred kalpas they shall constantly be lords of the six heavens of desire. They shall ultimately attain Buddhahood and never fall into the evil paths, and for a hundred thousand lifetimes their ears shall not hear the sound of suffering.”
“Ksitigarbha, in future ages, if kings and nobles see elderly people, those who are sick, and women in childbirth, and in that very instant give rise to great compassion in their hearts, providing them with medicine, food, and comfortable bedding so that they may be at ease — the blessings from this are simply inconceivable! For a hundred kalpas they will be lords of the Pure Abodes — a very pure heavenly realm. For two hundred kalpas they will be lords of the six desire heavens — the highest heavens in the realm of desire. They will ultimately attain Buddhahood, never fall into the evil paths — the three realms of great suffering: hell, hungry ghosts, and animals — and for a hundred thousand lifetimes, they will not even hear a single sound of suffering.”
“Furthermore, Ksitigarbha, if in future ages there are kings and Brahmins who can practice giving in this way, they shall gain immeasurable blessings. If they can further dedicate the merit, regardless of how much or how little, they shall ultimately attain Buddhahood — how much more so the rewards of becoming Indra, Brahma, or a Wheel-Turning King! Therefore, Ksitigarbha, exhort all beings to learn in this way.”
“Ksitigarbha, if in the future there are kings and nobles who can practice giving in this way, the blessings they gain are beyond counting. If they also dedicate the merit to all beings, no matter how much or how little, they will ultimately attain Buddhahood — let alone the lesser rewards of becoming Indra, Great Brahma King, or Wheel-Turning Sage King! Therefore, Ksitigarbha, you should widely urge all sentient beings to learn the practice of giving in this way.”
“Furthermore, Ksitigarbha, in future ages, if good men and good women plant even the slightest good roots within the Buddha-Dharma — even as small as a hair, a grain of sand, or a mote of dust — the blessings they receive are beyond all comparison.”
“Moreover, Ksitigarbha, in the future, if good men and good women plant even a tiny good root within the Buddha-Dharma — even something as small as a single hair or a grain of sand — the blessings they receive are so great that no analogy can describe them.”
“Furthermore, Ksitigarbha, in future ages, if good men and good women encounter images of the Buddha, Bodhisattvas, Pratyekabuddhas, or Wheel-Turning Kings, and make offerings and give, they shall gain immeasurable blessings and always enjoy supreme and wondrous happiness in the human and heavenly realms. If they can dedicate this merit to the Dharma Realm, the blessings of such a person are beyond all comparison.”
“Ksitigarbha, in the future, if good men and good women encounter images of the Buddha, Bodhisattvas, Pratyekabuddhas, or Wheel-Turning Sage Kings and sincerely make offerings and give, they will gain immeasurable blessings and constantly enjoy wonderful happiness in both the human and heavenly realms. If they further dedicate this merit to all sentient beings, the blessings of such a person are truly beyond words.”
“Furthermore, Ksitigarbha, in future ages, if good men and good women encounter Mahayana sutras, and upon hearing even a single verse or a single sentence, give rise to earnest reverence, praising, honoring, and making offerings — such a person shall gain a great reward, immeasurable and boundless. If they can dedicate this merit to the Dharma Realm, the blessings are beyond all comparison.”
“Ksitigarbha, in the future, if good men and good women encounter Mahayana sutras — scriptures in which the Buddha teaches the path to Buddhahood — and even upon hearing just one verse or one sentence, give rise to earnest reverence, praising, honoring, and making offerings, the reward they receive is immeasurable and boundless. If they further dedicate this to the Dharma Realm, the blessings are beyond all analogy.”
“Furthermore, Ksitigarbha, if in future ages there are good men and good women who encounter Buddhist stupas, temples, and Mahayana sutras — if these are new, they make offerings, pay reverence, praise, and bow with joined palms. If these are old or damaged, they repair and restore them, whether by their own initiative or by encouraging many others to join in. Such people, for thirty lifetimes, shall constantly be kings of various small kingdoms. The donors themselves shall constantly be Wheel-Turning Kings, and shall furthermore teach and transform the small kings with righteous Dharma.”
“Ksitigarbha, in the future, if good men and good women encounter Buddhist stupas, temples, and Mahayana sutras — if they are new, they make offerings, pay reverence, praise them, and bow with joined palms; if they are old or damaged, they resolve to repair and restore them. Whether one person initiates this alone or rallies many others to join together, such people will be kings of various small kingdoms for thirty lifetimes. The person who initiates the giving will be a Wheel-Turning Sage King and will furthermore teach and guide the other small kings with righteous Dharma!”
“Furthermore, Ksitigarbha, in future ages, if good men and good women plant good roots within the Buddha-Dharma — whether through offerings, repairing stupas and temples, or binding and restoring sutras — even deeds as small as a single hair, a mote of dust, a grain of sand, or a drop of water, so long as they can dedicate such good deeds to the Dharma Realm, the merit of such a person shall bring supreme and wondrous happiness for a hundred thousand lifetimes. But if they dedicate the merit only to their own family or for their own benefit, even so they shall enjoy happiness for three lifetimes, gaining ten-thousand-fold return for a single act of giving. Therefore, Ksitigarbha, the causes and conditions of giving are just so.”
“Ksitigarbha, in the future, if good men and good women plant good roots within the Buddha-Dharma — whether through making offerings, repairing Buddhist stupas and temples, or arranging and binding sutras — even something as small as a single hair, a speck of dust, a grain of sand, or a drop of water — as long as they dedicate the merit to all sentient beings, that person will enjoy the most wonderful happiness for a hundred thousand lifetimes. But if they dedicate the merit only to their own family or just for their own benefit, they will still enjoy happiness for three lifetimes, receiving a ten-thousand-fold return for every bit they give. So you see, Ksitigarbha, the causes and effects of giving work just like this.”
Chapter 11: The Earth Spirit’s Protection of the Dharma
At that time, the Firm and Steadfast Earth Spirit addressed the Buddha: “World-Honored One, from long ago until now, I have looked up to and paid reverence to countless Bodhisattva Mahasattvas, all of whom possess inconceivable spiritual powers and wisdom, and who broadly save sentient beings. Yet Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Mahasattva has vows that are deeper and weightier than all other Bodhisattvas. World-Honored One, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva has a great affinity with Jambudvipa. Bodhisattvas such as Manjushri, Samantabhadra, Avalokiteshvara, and Maitreya also manifest hundreds and thousands of forms to save beings in the six realms, yet their vows will one day be fulfilled. But the vows Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva has made to teach and transform all beings in the six realms span kalpas as numerous as the sands of a hundred billion Ganges Rivers.”
At this moment, the Firm and Steadfast Earth Spirit — the deity of the earth, the guardian of the land — respectfully said to the Buddha: “World-Honored One, from the most distant past until now, I have looked up to and paid reverence to countless great Bodhisattvas, all of whom possess inconceivable spiritual powers and wisdom, and who broadly save sentient beings. Yet Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva’s vows are deeper and weightier than those of all other Bodhisattvas! World-Honored One, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva has a particularly deep connection with our human world. Bodhisattvas such as Manjushri, Samantabhadra, Avalokiteshvara, and Maitreya also manifest hundreds and thousands of forms and go into the six realms — heavens, humans, asuras, animals, hungry ghosts, and hells — to save beings, but their vows will one day be complete. Yet the vows Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva has made to teach and transform all beings in the six realms span time as vast as the sands of a hundred billion Ganges Rivers — truly beyond counting!”
“World-Honored One, I observe that beings of the present and future, in their places of dwelling, may choose a clean spot on the south side and build a small shrine of earth, stone, bamboo, or wood. If within it they sculpt or paint — or even fashion from gold, silver, copper, or iron — an image of Ksitigarbha, and burn incense in offering, gazing reverently and praising — such a person’s dwelling shall gain ten kinds of benefits. What are these ten?”
The Firm and Steadfast Earth Spirit continued: “World-Honored One, I observe that beings of the present and future, in their places of dwelling, may choose a clean spot on the south side and build a small shrine of earth, stone, bamboo, or wood. If within it they sculpt or paint an image of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva — or even fashion one from gold, silver, copper, or iron — and then burn incense in offering, gazing reverently and praising, the person who lives there will gain ten kinds of benefits. What are these ten?”
“First, the land shall be fertile and abundant. Second, the household shall be forever at peace. Third, deceased relatives shall be reborn in heaven. Fourth, the living shall enjoy increased longevity. Fifth, all wishes shall be fulfilled. Sixth, there shall be no calamities of flood or fire. Seventh, all misfortunes and losses shall be averted. Eighth, nightmares shall be completely eliminated. Ninth, divine protection shall attend one’s coming and going. Tenth, one shall frequently encounter holy affinities.”
“First, the land will be fertile and harvests will be abundant. Second, the household will always be safe and at peace. Third, relatives who have already passed away will be reborn in heaven. Fourth, family members still living will enjoy longer lives. Fifth, whatever you wish for will come true. Sixth, you will not encounter floods or fires. Seventh, all kinds of losses and misfortunes will be warded off. Eighth, you will never have bad dreams again. Ninth, whether you go out or come home, divine beings will protect you. Tenth, you will frequently encounter good conditions that help your spiritual practice.”
“World-Honored One, in future ages and in the present, if sentient beings can make such offerings in their places of dwelling, they shall gain these benefits.”
The Firm and Steadfast Earth Spirit said: “World-Honored One, whether in the future or in the present, as long as sentient beings can make offerings to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva in their places of dwelling in this way, they will gain all these benefits.”
The Earth Spirit further addressed the Buddha: “World-Honored One, in future ages, if good men and good women have this sutra and an image of the Bodhisattva in their dwelling, and further recite the sutra and make offerings to the Bodhisattva, I shall day and night, with the power of my spiritual abilities, protect such a person. Even floods, fires, theft, robbery, and all calamities great and small — every manner of misfortune — shall be entirely eliminated.”
The Firm and Steadfast Earth Spirit then said to the Buddha: “World-Honored One, in the future, if good men and good women have this sutra and an image of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva in their home, and further recite the sutra regularly and make offerings to the Bodhisattva, I will certainly protect this person day and night with my spiritual powers. Floods, fires, thieves, robbers — whether great calamities or small misfortunes — every bad thing will completely vanish!”
The Buddha said to the Firm and Steadfast Earth Spirit: “Your spiritual powers are great; few other spirits can match you. Why is this? All the lands of Jambudvipa are under your protection. Even the grasses and trees, sand and stones, rice and hemp, bamboo and reeds, grains and precious gems — all that comes from the earth exists through your power. Moreover, you constantly praise the beneficial deeds of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. Your merit and spiritual powers are a hundred-thousand-fold greater than those of ordinary earth spirits. If in future ages there are good men and good women who make offerings to the Bodhisattva and recite this sutra, and who practice even a single teaching from the Sutra of Ksitigarbha’s Past Vows, you shall protect them with your spiritual powers. Do not let any disaster or unwelcome matter even reach their ears, let alone befall them. Not only will you alone protect such a person; Indra and Brahma with their retinues, and all the heavenly retinues, shall also protect this person. Why do they receive the protection of so many sages and worthies? It is entirely because they have gazed reverently at the image of Ksitigarbha and recited this Sutra of Past Vows. Naturally, they shall ultimately be freed from the sea of suffering and attain the bliss of Nirvana. For this reason, they receive such great protection.”
The Buddha said to the Firm and Steadfast Earth Spirit: “Your spiritual power is very great; few other spirits can compare. Why? Because all the lands of the human world are under your protection. Even the flowers, grasses, and trees, the sand and stone, the rice and hemp, bamboo and reeds, grains of all kinds, and all precious gems — everything that grows from the earth — exists through your power. And you constantly praise the deeds of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva that benefit sentient beings. Your merit and spiritual powers are a hundred-thousand-fold greater than those of ordinary earth spirits! If in the future good men and good women make offerings to the Bodhisattva and recite this sutra — if they practice even a single teaching from the Sutra of Ksitigarbha’s Past Vows — use your spiritual power to protect them. Do not let any calamity or misfortune even reach their ears, much less befall them. Not only will you alone protect them; Indra with his retinue and Great Brahma with his retinue, and all the heavenly hosts, will also protect this person. Why do they receive the protection of so many sages and worthies? It is entirely because they have reverently gazed upon the image of Ksitigarbha and recited this Sutra of Past Vows. Naturally, they will ultimately be freed from the sea of suffering and attain the bliss of Nirvana — eternal peace and liberation. This is why they receive such great protection!”
Chapter 12: The Benefits of Seeing and Hearing
At that time, the World-Honored One emitted from the crown of his head hundreds of thousands of millions of billions of great rays of light from the tuft of white hair between his brows: the White Tuft Light, the Great White Tuft Light, the Auspicious Tuft Light, the Great Auspicious Tuft Light, the Jade Tuft Light, the Great Jade Tuft Light, the Purple Tuft Light, the Great Purple Tuft Light, the Blue Tuft Light, the Great Blue Tuft Light, the Azure Tuft Light, the Great Azure Tuft Light, the Red Tuft Light, the Great Red Tuft Light, the Green Tuft Light, the Great Green Tuft Light, the Gold Tuft Light, the Great Gold Tuft Light, the Auspicious Cloud Tuft Light, the Great Auspicious Cloud Tuft Light, the Thousand-Wheel Tuft Light, the Great Thousand-Wheel Tuft Light, the Jewel-Wheel Tuft Light, the Great Jewel-Wheel Tuft Light, the Sun-Wheel Tuft Light, the Great Sun-Wheel Tuft Light, the Moon-Wheel Tuft Light, the Great Moon-Wheel Tuft Light, the Palace Tuft Light, the Great Palace Tuft Light, the Sea-Cloud Tuft Light, and the Great Sea-Cloud Tuft Light.
At this moment, the Buddha emitted from the crown of his head hundreds of thousands of millions of billions of rays of light, as splendid as a rainbow. These lights included: white light, great white light, auspicious light, great auspicious light, jade light, great jade light, purple light, great purple light, blue light, great blue light, azure-green light, great azure-green light, red light, great red light, green light, great green light, gold light, great gold light, light like auspicious clouds, light like great auspicious clouds, light like a thousand wheels, light like great thousand wheels, light like jewel-wheels, light like great jewel-wheels, light like the sun, light like a great sun, light like the moon, light like a great moon, light like palaces, light like great palaces, light like clouds over the sea, and light like great sea-clouds. What a magnificent spectacle it was!
Having emitted these great rays of light from the crown of his head, the Buddha then spoke in a subtle and wondrous voice, telling the great assembly — the gods, dragons, the eightfold division of beings, humans and non-humans: “Hear me now, as I today in the Palace of Trayastrimsa Heaven praise and extol Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva’s beneficial deeds among humans and devas — his inconceivable deeds, his deeds that transcend the causes of sagehood, his attainment of the Ten Stages, and his ultimate non-retrogression from Anuttara-Samyak-Sambodhi — supreme, perfect enlightenment.”
After emitting these rays from the crown of his head, the Buddha then spoke in a wondrous voice to the entire assembly — all the gods, dragons, the eightfold division of beings (the eight classes of guardian deities: devas, nagas, yakshas, and so on), and all manner of spirits: “Listen well, everyone! Today, in the Palace of Trayastrimsa Heaven, I shall praise Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva’s beneficial deeds in the human and heavenly realms — his inconceivable deeds, his deeds that surpass the causal practices of all sages, his attainment of the Ten Bodhisattva Stages, and his ultimate, irreversible realization of Anuttara-Samyak-Sambodhi — supreme, perfect enlightenment, which is Buddhahood.”
As the Buddha spoke these words, a Bodhisattva Mahasattva in the assembly named Avalokiteshvara — the Bodhisattva Who Perceives the World’s Sounds — rose from his seat, knelt with joined palms, and addressed the Buddha: “World-Honored One, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Mahasattva possesses great compassion and takes pity on beings suffering from their transgressions. In thousands of millions of billions of worlds, he manifests thousands of millions of billions of bodies. His merit and inconceivable spiritual powers are immense. I have heard the World-Honored One and countless Buddhas of the ten directions, all with one voice, praise Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, saying: ‘Even if all the Buddhas of the past, present, and future were to describe his merit, they could not exhaust it.’ Just now, the World-Honored One again announced to the great assembly his wish to praise the beneficial deeds of Ksitigarbha. I humbly wish the World-Honored One, for the sake of all beings present and future, to praise the inconceivable deeds of Ksitigarbha, so that the gods, dragons, and the eightfold division of beings may gain blessings through their reverence.”
As the Buddha was speaking, among the Bodhisattvas present was one called Avalokiteshvara — the Bodhisattva we all know well, the one who hears the cries of suffering beings and rushes to their aid. He rose from his seat, knelt on both knees with palms joined, and respectfully said to the Buddha: “World-Honored One, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva has an incredibly great compassionate heart. He takes pity on all beings suffering for their transgressions. In thousands of millions of billions of worlds, he manifests thousands of millions of billions of emanation bodies to save sentient beings. His merit and inconceivable spiritual powers are truly immense! I have heard that the World-Honored One and the countless Buddhas of the ten directions all praise Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva with one voice, saying: ‘Even if all the Buddhas of the past, present, and future were put together to describe Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva’s merit, they could not exhaust it.’ Just now, the World-Honored One once again told everyone his wish to praise the beneficial deeds of Ksitigarbha. I earnestly wish that the World-Honored One, for the sake of all beings present and future, would fully describe the inconceivable deeds of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, so that the gods, dragons, the eightfold division of beings, and everyone here may gain blessings through their reverence.”
The Buddha said to Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva: “You have a great affinity with the Saha World. Whether devas or dragons, men or women, spirits or ghosts, or even beings suffering in the six realms of existence — those who hear your name, see your form, long for you, or praise you — all such beings shall never retrogress from the unsurpassed Way. They shall always be reborn among humans and devas, enjoying wondrous happiness. When their causes and effects ripen, they shall meet a Buddha and receive a prediction of their future Buddhahood. You now possess great compassion and take pity on sentient beings, as well as the gods, dragons, and the eightfold division. Listen as I proclaim the inconceivable benefits of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. Listen carefully, and I shall now speak.”
The Buddha said to Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva: “You have a very deep connection with this Saha World — our world full of suffering. Whether they are heavenly beings or dragons, men or women, gods or ghosts, or even beings suffering in the six realms, those who hear your name, see your image, feel devotion toward you, or praise you — all of them will never turn back on the path to Buddhahood. They will always be reborn in the human or heavenly realms, enjoying wonderful happiness. When their karmic causes and effects have ripened, they will meet a Buddha and receive a prediction that they will one day attain Buddhahood. You now possess great compassion and take pity on all beings and the gods, dragons, and the eightfold division. Listen as I speak of the inconceivable benefits of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. Listen carefully, and I shall tell you now.”
Avalokiteshvara said: “Indeed, World-Honored One, I would gladly hear it!”
Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva replied: “Yes, World-Honored One! I would be most glad to listen!”
The Buddha told Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva: “In the worlds of the present and future, there are heavenly beings whose celestial blessings are exhausted, and the five signs of decay appear. Some are about to fall into the evil paths. If such heavenly beings, whether male or female, at the time these signs appear, see the image of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva or hear his name, and gaze reverently even once or bow even once, these heavenly beings shall have their celestial blessings renewed and increased. They shall enjoy great happiness and never fall into the retribution of the three evil paths. How much more so if they actually see the Bodhisattva and make offerings of incense, flowers, clothing, food, treasures, and necklaces — the merit and blessings they gain shall be immeasurable and boundless.”
The Buddha told Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva: “In the worlds of the present and future, there are heavenly beings who, after their celestial blessings are exhausted, show the five signs of decay — for example, their celestial flower crowns wilt and the radiance of their bodies fades — indicating that they are about to fall from heaven, perhaps even into the evil paths. Whether male or female, if at the time these signs of decay appear they can see the image of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva or hear his name, and just gaze reverently once or bow once, these heavenly beings’ blessings will be renewed and increased. They will continue to enjoy great heavenly happiness and will never fall into the three evil paths — hell, hungry ghosts, or the animal realm. How much more so if they actually see the Bodhisattva in person and make offerings of fragrant flowers, clothing, food, treasures, and jeweled necklaces — the merit and blessings they gain will be truly immeasurable and boundless!”
“Furthermore, Avalokiteshvara, in the worlds of the present and future, if beings of the six realms, at the time of death, hear the name of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva — even if just one utterance reaches their ears — such beings shall never again undergo the suffering of the three evil paths. How much more so if, at the time of death, the parents and family take the dying person’s dwelling, possessions, treasures, and clothing and commission a sculpted or painted image of Ksitigarbha. Or if the sick person, before passing, sees and hears that the family has used their property to commission an image of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva on their behalf — if this person’s karma warrants a severe illness, through this merit the illness shall soon be cured and their life extended. If this person’s karma dictates that their life must end, and they bear all manner of karmic obstructions and transgressions that would lead them to the evil paths, through this merit, after death they shall be reborn among humans or devas, enjoying supreme and wondrous happiness, and all karmic obstructions shall be entirely eliminated.”
“Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, let me tell you more: In the worlds of the present and future, if beings in the six realms of existence, at the moment of death, can hear the name of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva — even just one utterance reaching their ears — they will never again experience the suffering of the three evil paths. How much more so if, at the time of death, the parents and family take the dying person’s home, possessions, treasures, and clothing to commission a sculpted or painted image of Ksitigarbha. And if the sick person, before passing, can see and hear that their family has used their property to commission an image of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva on their behalf — if this person’s karma calls for a severe illness, through this merit, the illness will quickly be healed and their life will be extended. If this person’s lifespan is destined to end and they carry all kinds of karmic transgressions that would send them to the evil paths, through this merit, after death they will be reborn in the human or heavenly realms, enjoying wonderful happiness, and all their karmic obstructions will be completely eliminated.”
“Furthermore, Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, in future ages, if a boy or girl loses their parents while still nursing, or at age three, five, or before ten, or even loses brothers and sisters — when such a person has grown up, they think of their parents and relatives, not knowing into which realm they have fallen, in which world they were reborn, or in which heaven. If this person can sculpt or paint an image of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, or even just hear his name, and gaze reverently or bow even once, and from one day to seven days does not lose that initial resolve, hearing the name, seeing the form, gazing reverently, and making offerings — then if this person’s relatives, due to karmic retribution, have fallen into the evil paths and been suffering for however many kalpas, through the merit of this person sculpting or painting Ksitigarbha’s image and paying reverence, they shall be swiftly liberated and reborn among humans or devas, enjoying supreme and wondrous happiness. If the person’s relatives already possess sufficient blessings and have been reborn among humans or devas enjoying wondrous happiness, then through this merit, their holy causes shall be further increased and their happiness shall be boundless.”
“Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, here is another thing: In the future, if a boy or girl loses their parents while still being nursed, or at age three, five, or before the age of ten — or even loses brothers and sisters — when this person grows up and misses their parents and family, not knowing which realm they were reborn into, in which world, or in which heaven — if this person can sculpt or paint an image of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, or even just hear his name, gaze reverently once, or bow once, and from one day to seven days does not lose that initial sincerity, hearing the name, gazing at the image, bowing and making offerings — then their lost relatives, if because of past karma they have fallen into the evil paths and have been suffering for however long, through the merit of this person sculpting or painting the image of Ksitigarbha and paying reverence, they will immediately be liberated and reborn in the human or heavenly realms, enjoying wonderful happiness. If the relatives already have good fortune and are already enjoying happiness in the human or heavenly realms, through this merit their blessings will grow even greater, and their happiness will increase even more.”
“If this person can further, within twenty-one days, single-mindedly gaze at and pay reverence to the image of Ksitigarbha, reciting his name a full ten thousand times, they shall see the Bodhisattva manifest in a boundless body and be told directly where their relatives have been reborn. Or in a dream, the Bodhisattva shall display great spiritual powers, personally leading this person through the various worlds to see their relatives. Furthermore, if they can recite the Bodhisattva’s name a thousand times each day, continuing for a thousand days, this person shall have the Bodhisattva dispatch the local earth spirits and guardian deities to protect them for their entire life. In this present life, their food and clothing shall be abundant, and they shall be free of all illness and suffering. Not even unexpected misfortune shall enter their door, let alone touch their person. Ultimately, this person shall receive the Bodhisattva’s touch upon the crown of their head and a prediction of their future Buddhahood.”
“If this person can further, within twenty-one days, single-mindedly gaze at and pay reverence to the image of Ksitigarbha, and recite his name a full ten thousand times, the Bodhisattva will appear in a boundless body and personally tell them where their relatives have been reborn. Or in a dream, the Bodhisattva will display great spiritual powers and personally lead this person through the various worlds to see their family. Furthermore, if they can recite the Bodhisattva’s name a thousand times each day, continuing for a full thousand days, the Bodhisattva will dispatch the local earth spirits and guardian deities to protect this person for their entire life. In this lifetime, their food and clothing will be plentiful, they will not suffer from illness, and even unexpected misfortune will not enter their door — let alone harm their body. In the end, this person will surely receive the touch of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva upon the crown of their head and a prediction — a guarantee that they will one day attain Buddhahood.”
“Furthermore, Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, in future ages, if good men and good women wish to give rise to a vast compassionate mind to save all sentient beings, wish to cultivate unsurpassed Bodhi, or wish to leave the Three Realms — if such people see the image of Ksitigarbha or hear his name, and with utmost sincerity take refuge, or make offerings of incense, flowers, clothing, treasures, and food, gazing reverently — then the wishes of these good men and women shall be swiftly fulfilled, and they shall never encounter any obstacle.”
“Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, if in the future there are good men and good women who wish to give rise to a vast compassionate mind to save all sentient beings, who wish to cultivate unsurpassed Bodhi, or who wish to leave the Three Realms — the three levels of cyclic existence: the Desire Realm, the Form Realm, and the Formless Realm — if these people see the image of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva or hear his name, sincerely take refuge, or make offerings of incense, flowers, clothing, treasures, and food, gazing reverently — their wishes will be swiftly fulfilled, and they will never encounter any obstacle.”
“Furthermore, Avalokiteshvara, in future ages, if good men and good women wish to fulfill hundreds of thousands of millions of billions of wishes, or accomplish hundreds of thousands of millions of billions of undertakings, whether for the present or the future — they need only take refuge in, gaze reverently at, make offerings to, and praise the image of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. All their wishes and prayers shall be entirely fulfilled. Moreover, if they wish that Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, with his great compassion, forever protect them, such a person shall receive the Bodhisattva’s touch upon their head and a prediction of future Buddhahood, even in their dreams.”
“Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, in the future, if good men and good women wish to fulfill hundreds of thousands of millions of billions of wishes, or accomplish hundreds of thousands of millions of billions of things, whether for the present or the future — they need only take refuge in, gaze reverently at, make offerings to, and praise the image of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. All their wishes and prayers will be entirely fulfilled. And if they further express the wish that Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, with his great compassion, forever protect them, that person will receive the Bodhisattva’s touch upon their head and a prediction of future Buddhahood, even in their dreams.”
“Furthermore, Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, in future ages, if good men and good women deeply cherish Mahayana sutras, give rise to an inconceivable aspiration, and wish to read and recite them — yet even when they meet a wise teacher who instructs them, they learn but soon forget, and though months and years pass, they cannot commit the texts to memory. Such good men and women carry karmic obstructions from past lives that have not yet been eliminated, and therefore they lack the capacity to read and recite Mahayana sutras. If such a person hears the name of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva and sees his image, and with their original sincere heart respectfully states their plight, and further makes offerings of incense, flowers, clothing, food, and all manner of gifts to the Bodhisattva; and then places a cup of pure water before the Bodhisattva’s image for one day and one night, after which they join their palms, respectfully drink the water, turning to face the south; at the moment the water enters their mouth, they must be utterly sincere and solemn. After drinking, they must carefully abstain from the five pungent herbs, wine, meat, sexual misconduct, false speech, and all killing for seven or twenty-one days. Such good men and women shall see Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva manifest in a boundless body in their dreams and perform the consecration of pouring water upon their heads. Upon waking, they shall gain keen intelligence — and these sutras, once heard even a single time, shall be permanently remembered, never forgetting even a single sentence or verse.”
“Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, if in the future there are good men and good women who deeply cherish Mahayana sutras and have set their hearts on reading and reciting them — yet even when they find a good teacher to instruct them, they learn and forget, forget and learn again, and even after years they still cannot memorize them. This is because these people carry karmic obstructions from past lives that have not been eliminated, so they simply cannot retain the Mahayana sutras. If such a person hears the name of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, sees his image, and with the most sincere heart respectfully pours out their difficulties to the Bodhisattva, and further makes offerings of incense, flowers, clothing, food, and various gifts — then prepares a cup of pure water, places it before the Bodhisattva’s image for one day and one night, and afterward, with palms joined, respectfully drinks the water while turning to face south. At the very moment the water is about to enter their mouth, their heart must be utterly solemn and sincere. After drinking, they must carefully abstain from the five pungent herbs (garlic, onion, leeks, and similar strong-smelling foods), wine and meat, sexual misconduct, false speech, and all killing — observing this for seven or twenty-one days. These good men and women will then see Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva appear in a boundless body in their dreams, coming to perform the consecration of pouring water upon their heads. Upon waking, they will become keen and intelligent. From then on, whenever they hear the sutras, just one hearing passing through their ears will be enough to remember them forever — they will never again forget a single sentence or verse.”
“Furthermore, Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, in future ages, if there are people who lack sufficient food and clothing, whose desires go unfulfilled, who are frequently ill, who suffer repeated misfortune, whose households are not at peace, whose families are scattered, or who are beset by unexpected calamities, and who are frequently frightened in their dreams — if such people hear the name of Ksitigarbha and see his image, and with utmost sincerity recite his name a full ten thousand times, all these adversities shall gradually dissolve. They shall at once find peace and happiness, with food and clothing in abundance, and even in their dreams shall be entirely at ease.”
“Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, if in the future there are people who cannot get enough to eat or wear, whose wishes go unfulfilled, who are frequently sick, who keep running into bad luck, whose homes are not at peace, whose family members are scattered, or who are beset by one unexpected misfortune after another, and who are even frightened awake by nightmares — if such people hear the name of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, see his image, and with the most sincere heart recite his name a full ten thousand times, all these troubles will gradually disappear. They will quickly find peace and happiness, their food and clothing will become abundant, and even in their dreams everything will be peaceful and pleasant.”
“Furthermore, Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, in future ages, if good men and good women must enter mountain forests, cross rivers and seas or great waters, or travel dangerous roads — whether for their livelihood, public or private affairs, matters of life and death, or urgent business — such a person should first recite the name of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva ten thousand times. Then throughout the lands they pass, spirits and deities shall guard and protect them. Whether walking, standing, sitting, or lying down, they shall forever be safe and at ease. Even should they encounter tigers, wolves, lions, or any venomous and harmful creatures, none shall be able to harm them.”
“Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, if in the future there are good men and good women who, for whatever reason — making a living, handling public or private matters, attending to funeral affairs, or dealing with an emergency — need to enter deep mountain forests, cross rivers and seas or great waters, or travel along dangerous roads, they should first recite the name of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva ten thousand times. Then throughout every place they pass, spirits and deities will come to protect them. Whether walking, standing, sitting, or lying down, they will always be safe and at ease. Even if they encounter tigers, wolves, lions, or any venomous serpents or fierce beasts, none will be able to harm them in the slightest.”
The Buddha said to Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva: “Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva has a great affinity with Jambudvipa. Were I to speak of all the benefits that beings gain from seeing and hearing of him, even in a hundred thousand kalpas I could not exhaust them. Therefore, Avalokiteshvara, use your spiritual powers to spread this sutra widely, so that the beings of the Saha World may forever enjoy peace and happiness for hundreds of thousands of millions of kalpas.”
The Buddha said to Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva: “Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva’s connection with our human world is truly immeasurably deep. If I were to describe all the benefits beings gain from seeing and hearing of him, even speaking for a hundred thousand kalpas I could not finish. Therefore, Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, you must use your spiritual powers to spread this sutra far and wide, so that the beings of this world may enjoy peace and happiness forever, for hundreds of thousands of millions of kalpas.”
Then the World-Honored One spoke in verse:
At this moment, the Buddha spoke in elegant verse — sutra passages composed like poetry:
I behold Ksitigarbha’s awesome spiritual power, / Which kalpas as numerous as Ganges sands could not fully describe. / In the single instant of seeing, hearing, or paying reverence, / Immeasurable benefits reach both humans and devas.
I behold Ksitigarbha’s awesome spiritual power — even speaking for kalpas as numerous as Ganges sands could not exhaust it. Simply seeing, hearing, gazing reverently, or bowing — even in the span of a single thought — brings immeasurable benefits to both humans and heavenly beings.
Whether man or woman or dragon-spirit, / Whose blessings are spent and who should fall to evil paths — / If with utmost sincerity they take refuge in the Great Being, / Their lifespan shall increase and karmic obstacles be removed.
Whether man or woman or dragon-spirit, when their blessings are exhausted and they would otherwise fall to the evil paths — if they sincerely take refuge in Ksitigarbha, the Great Bodhisattva, their lifespan will be extended and their karmic obstacles removed.
Those who lost their loving parents in youth, / Not knowing to which realm their souls have gone — / Brothers, sisters, and all their kin, / Whom since growing up they have never known.
Those who lost their beloved parents in childhood, not knowing which realm their souls have gone to — brothers, sisters, and relatives whom they have never met since growing up.
If they sculpt or paint the Great Being’s form, / And with yearning devotion gaze and bow without cease, / Reciting his name throughout twenty-one days, / The Bodhisattva shall manifest in boundless body,
If they sculpt or paint the image of Ksitigarbha, and with longing and devotion gaze and bow without ceasing, reciting his name throughout twenty-one days, the Bodhisattva will appear in a boundless body,
Revealing in which realm their kin were born. / Even those who fell to evil paths shall swiftly be freed. / If they do not abandon this initial resolve, / They shall receive the touch upon the crown and the holy prediction.
Telling you which world your relatives were reborn in. Even those who fell into the evil paths will quickly be freed. If you do not abandon your initial sincerity, you will receive the Bodhisattva’s touch upon the crown and a prediction — a guarantee of future Buddhahood.
Those who wish to cultivate unsurpassed Bodhi, / Or even to leave behind the suffering of the Three Realms — / Having already given rise to the great compassionate mind, / Should first gaze reverently upon the Great Being’s image.
Those who wish to cultivate the highest awakening, or even to escape the suffering of the Three Realms — having already given rise to the great compassionate mind — should first gaze reverently upon and pay homage to the image of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva.
All their wishes shall swiftly be fulfilled, / With no karmic obstacle able to obstruct them. / There are those who resolve to recite the sutras, / Wishing to ferry the deluded multitudes to the other shore.
Then all their wishes will be swiftly fulfilled, and no karmic obstacle will ever be able to block them. There are those who resolve to recite the sutras, wishing to lead the deluded multitudes to the other shore of liberation.
Though their vow is inconceivable in its greatness, / They read and forget, read and forget, losing much. / Such people are hindered by karmic obstacles and delusion, / And therefore cannot retain the Mahayana sutras.
Though they have made such a remarkable vow, they read and forget, forget and read again, unable to retain anything. This is because past karmic obstructions are at work, and so the Mahayana sutras simply will not stay in their memory.
Make offerings to Ksitigarbha with incense and flowers, / Clothing, food, and all manner of gifts. / Place pure water before the Great Being’s image, / And after one day and one night, request to drink it.
Simply make offerings to Ksitigarbha with incense and flowers, along with clothing, food, and all manner of gifts. Place a cup of pure water before the Bodhisattva’s image, and after one day and one night, respectfully drink it.
With earnest and solemn heart, abstain from the five pungent herbs, / Wine, meat, sexual misconduct, and false speech. / For twenty-one days, refrain from all killing, / And with utmost sincerity recite the Great Being’s name.
With an earnest and solemn heart, abstain from the five pungent herbs like garlic and onion, stay away from wine and meat, sexual misconduct, and falsehood. For twenty-one days refrain from all killing, and sincerely recite the name of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva.
Then in a dream they shall see the Boundless One. / Upon waking they shall gain keen faculties of hearing; / Whenever this sutra’s teaching reaches their ears, / Through thousands of myriads of lives it shall never be forgotten.
Then in a dream you will see the Bodhisattva appear in a boundless body. Upon waking you will gain keen wisdom and sharp faculties. From then on, whenever the sutra’s teaching passes through your ears, through thousands of myriads of lifetimes it will never be forgotten.
Through the Great Being’s inconceivable power, / Such a person is enabled to gain this wisdom. / For those in poverty, sickness, and affliction, / Whose households decline and whose families scatter —
Through the Great Bodhisattva’s inconceivable power, such a person is enabled to gain this wisdom. For those in poverty, beset by illness, whose households suffer misfortune and whose families scatter —
Even in sleep and dreams they find no peace, / And all they seek goes contrary and unfulfilled. / If with utmost sincerity they gaze upon and bow to Ksitigarbha’s image, / All manner of evil shall be entirely eliminated.
Even in their dreams they find no peace, and everything they wish for goes awry. But if they sincerely gaze upon and bow to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva’s image, all manner of misfortune will be completely eliminated.
Even in dreams they shall be wholly at ease, / With food and clothing abundant and spirits and deities as guardians. / If they must enter mountain forests or cross the seas, / Encountering venomous beasts and evil people,
From then on, even their dreams will be peaceful. Their food and clothing will be abundant, and spirits and deities will protect them. If they must enter mountain forests or cross the great seas, encountering venomous serpents, fierce beasts, or wicked people,
Malevolent spirits, evil ghosts, and fierce winds — / All manner of hardships and afflictions. / They need only gaze reverently upon and make offerings to / The image of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, the Great Being.
As well as malevolent spirits, evil ghosts, and fierce winds — all manner of hardships and suffering. They need only gaze reverently upon and make offerings to the sacred image of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva,
Then amid those mountain forests and great seas, / All such evils shall be entirely eliminated. / Avalokiteshvara, listen with utmost sincerity to what I say: / Ksitigarbha’s merits are endless and inconceivable.
And amid those mountain forests and great seas, every danger and calamity will vanish. Avalokiteshvara, please listen with utmost sincerity to what I say: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva’s merits are endless and inconceivable.
Even speaking for hundreds of thousands of myriads of kalpas cannot fully describe them. / Broadly proclaim the Great Being’s power such as this. / If people hear Ksitigarbha’s name, / Or even see his image and pay reverence,
Even speaking for hundreds of thousands of myriads of kalpas could never fully describe them. You must broadly proclaim the great power of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. If people hear Ksitigarbha’s name, or even see his image and pay reverence,
And offer incense, flowers, clothing, food, and drink, / For a hundred thousand lives they shall enjoy wondrous bliss. / If they can dedicate this merit to the Dharma Realm, / They shall ultimately attain Buddhahood, transcending birth and death.
And make offerings of incense, flowers, clothing, food, and drink, for a hundred thousand lifetimes they will enjoy wondrous happiness. If they can dedicate this merit to all sentient beings, they will ultimately attain Buddhahood and transcend the cycle of birth and death.
Therefore, Avalokiteshvara, know this well, / And proclaim it throughout lands as numerous as the Ganges sands.
Therefore, Avalokiteshvara, know this well, and spread these teachings throughout lands as numerous as the sands of the Ganges!
Chapter 13: The Entrustment of Humans and Devas
At that time, the World-Honored One raised his golden arm and once again touched the crown of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Mahasattva’s head, and spoke thus: “Ksitigarbha, Ksitigarbha! Your spiritual powers are inconceivable, your compassion is inconceivable, your wisdom is inconceivable, your eloquence is inconceivable. Even if all the Buddhas of the ten directions were to praise and proclaim your inconceivable deeds, they could not exhaust them in thousands of myriads of kalpas.”
At this moment, the Buddha raised his golden arm and once again gently touched the crown of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva’s head, and spoke with deep feeling: “Ksitigarbha, oh Ksitigarbha! Your spiritual powers are inconceivable, your compassion is inconceivable, your wisdom is inconceivable, your eloquence is inconceivable. Even if all the Buddhas of the ten directions were to praise and proclaim your inconceivable deeds together, they could not exhaust them even in thousands of myriads of kalpas!”
“Ksitigarbha, Ksitigarbha! Remember that today, in Trayastrimsa Heaven, before this great assembly of hundreds of thousands of millions of billions — an unspeakable, unspeakable number — of all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, gods, dragons, and the eightfold division of beings, I once again entrust to you the beings of the human and heavenly realms — those who have not yet escaped the Three Realms and remain within the burning house. Do not allow these beings to fall into the evil paths, not even for a single day or night — how much less into the Five Uninterrupted Hells or the Avici Hell, where they would suffer for thousands of millions of billions of kalpas with no hope of release.”
The Buddha continued: “Ksitigarbha, oh Ksitigarbha! Remember that today, in the Palace of Trayastrimsa Heaven, before this great assembly of hundreds of thousands of millions of billions — a number too vast to speak — of all Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, gods, dragons, and the eightfold division of beings, I once again entrust to you all the beings of the human and heavenly realms — those who have not yet escaped the Three Realms and remain trapped in the burning house — this world of cyclic existence as perilous as a house on fire. You must not let these beings fall into the evil paths, not even for a single day or night, let alone fall into the Five Uninterrupted Hells or the Avici Hell — the most terrifying hell where suffering never ceases for even an instant. Once there, they would endure torment for thousands of millions of billions of kalpas with never a hope of escape!”
“Ksitigarbha, the beings of Jambudvipa are unstable in their dispositions; most are habituated to unwholesome ways. Even if they give rise to a wholesome thought, it is quickly abandoned. Should they encounter unwholesome conditions, their evil thoughts grow from moment to moment. For this reason, I have divided my form into hundreds of thousands of billions of emanations, adapting to each being’s capacity and nature in order to liberate them.”
“Ksitigarbha, the beings of the human world are unsteady in their minds, and most have many unwholesome habits. Even if they manage to give rise to a good intention, it vanishes in the blink of an eye. But if they encounter unwholesome influences, their bad thoughts multiply one after another, growing ever stronger. For this very reason, I have divided my form into hundreds of thousands of billions of emanation bodies, adapting to each being’s capacity and nature, using all kinds of methods to save them.”
“Ksitigarbha, today I earnestly entrust to you the multitude of humans and devas. In future ages, if there are heavenly beings, good men, or good women who plant even the slightest good root in the Buddha-Dharma — a single hair, a mote of dust, a grain of sand, a drop of water — use your spiritual power to protect such a person, guiding them gradually toward the unsurpassed Way. Do not let them regress.”
“Ksitigarbha, today I solemnly entrust all the beings of heaven and humanity to you. In the future, if there are heavenly beings or good men and women who plant even the tiniest good root in the Buddha-Dharma — as small as a single hair, a speck of dust, a grain of sand, or a drop of water — use the power of your practice to protect them, guiding them gradually toward the highest awakening. You must not let them fall back!”
“Furthermore, Ksitigarbha, in future ages, whether heavenly beings or humans, if according to their karmic retribution they are to fall into the evil paths — and at the very moment of falling, or when they have reached the threshold — if these beings can recite even one Buddha’s name, one Bodhisattva’s name, or a single sentence or verse of a Mahayana sutra, you shall use your spiritual powers to rescue them by every expedient means. Before such a person, manifest your boundless body, shatter the hells, and see that they are reborn in heaven, enjoying supreme and wondrous bliss.”
“Moreover, Ksitigarbha, in the future, whether heavenly beings or humans, if because of their own karma they are about to fall into the evil paths — at that very moment of falling, or when they have already reached the doorway of the evil realm — if these beings can utter even one Buddha’s name, one Bodhisattva’s name, or a single sentence or verse from a Mahayana sutra, you must use your spiritual powers to rescue them by every possible means. Before these people, manifest your boundless body, shatter the hells, and ensure they are reborn in heaven, enjoying the most wonderful bliss!”
Then the World-Honored One spoke in verse:
At this moment, the Buddha once again spoke in verse:
The beings of heaven and humanity, present and future, / I today earnestly entrust to you. / With great spiritual powers and skillful means, deliver them — / Do not let them fall into the evil paths.
The beings of heaven and humanity, present and future — I today earnestly entrust them all to you. Use your great spiritual powers and all manner of skillful means to save them. You must not let them fall into those paths of suffering!
At that time, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Mahasattva knelt with joined palms and addressed the Buddha: “World-Honored One, I humbly ask the World-Honored One not to worry. In future ages, if good men and good women have even a single thought of reverence within the Buddha-Dharma, I shall use hundreds of thousands of expedient means to liberate such a person, swiftly freeing them from the cycle of birth and death. How much more so for those who hear of wholesome deeds and cultivate them thought after thought — they shall naturally never retrogress from the unsurpassed Way.”
At this moment, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva knelt on both knees with palms joined and respectfully said to the Buddha: “World-Honored One, please do not worry! In the future, if good men and good women give rise to even a single thought of reverence within the Buddha-Dharma, I will use hundreds of thousands of methods to save this person, swiftly freeing them from the cycle of birth and death. How much more so for those who hear of all manner of wholesome deeds and diligently practice them moment by moment — they will naturally and surely never turn back on the path to Buddhahood.”
As these words were spoken, a Bodhisattva in the assembly named Akashagarbha — Treasury of Space — addressed the Buddha: “World-Honored One, since arriving at Trayastrimsa Heaven, I have heard the Tathagata praise and extol the awesome spiritual powers of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva as inconceivable. In future ages, if good men and good women, or any gods and dragons, hear this sutra and the name of Ksitigarbha, or gaze reverently upon his image, how many kinds of blessings shall they gain? I humbly wish the World-Honored One to explain this briefly for all beings present and future.”
As Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva finished speaking, a Bodhisattva in the assembly named Akashagarbha — the Treasury of Space, a Bodhisattva whose wisdom and merit are as vast and boundless as the sky — said to the Buddha: “World-Honored One, since arriving at Trayastrimsa Heaven, I have been listening to you praise the awesome spiritual powers of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, and they are truly inconceivable. I would like to ask: in the future, if good men and good women, or any gods and dragons, hear this sutra and the name of Ksitigarbha, or gaze reverently upon his image, how many kinds of blessings will they gain? I humbly wish the World-Honored One to explain this briefly for all beings present and future.”
The Buddha said to Akashagarbha Bodhisattva: “Listen carefully, listen carefully! I shall explain this to you in detail. In future ages, if good men and good women see the image of Ksitigarbha, hear this sutra, or even read and recite it, and make offerings of incense, flowers, food, clothing, and precious treasures, praising, gazing reverently, and bowing — they shall gain twenty-eight kinds of benefits: First, protection and mindfulness from gods and dragons. Second, daily increase of wholesome fruits. Third, accumulation of supreme and holy causes. Fourth, non-retrogression from Bodhi. Fifth, abundance of food and clothing. Sixth, freedom from plague and illness. Seventh, freedom from calamities of flood and fire. Eighth, freedom from the peril of robbery and theft. Ninth, being respected and admired by all who see them. Tenth, being aided and upheld by spirits and deities. Eleventh, a woman’s body transformed into a man’s. Twelfth, being reborn as a daughter of kings and ministers. Thirteenth, having an upright and handsome appearance. Fourteenth, being frequently reborn in the heavens. Fifteenth, sometimes being born as a sovereign ruler. Sixteenth, possessing the penetration of knowledge of past lives. Seventeenth, having all requests granted. Eighteenth, joy and harmony among one’s family and kin. Nineteenth, elimination of all unexpected misfortunes. Twentieth, permanent removal of the karmic paths to lower rebirths. Twenty-first, always arriving safely wherever one goes. Twenty-second, peaceful and happy dreams at night. Twenty-third, departed relatives freed from suffering. Twenty-fourth, being reborn on the strength of past blessings. Twenty-fifth, being praised by all the sages. Twenty-sixth, keen intelligence and sharp faculties. Twenty-seventh, a heart full of compassion and kindness. Twenty-eighth, ultimate attainment of Buddhahood.”
The Buddha told Akashagarbha Bodhisattva: “Listen carefully! I shall explain each one to you. In future ages, if good men and good women see the image of Ksitigarbha, hear this sutra, or even read and recite it, and make offerings of incense, flowers, food, clothing, and precious treasures, praising, gazing reverently, and bowing — they shall gain twenty-eight kinds of benefits: First, gods and dragons will protect and be mindful of them. Second, their wholesome fruits will increase daily. Third, they will accumulate supreme and holy causes. Fourth, they will never retrogress from Bodhi. Fifth, they will enjoy abundance of food and clothing. Sixth, they will be free from plague and illness. Seventh, they will be free from calamities of flood and fire. Eighth, they will be free from the peril of robbery and theft. Ninth, all who see them will feel respect and admiration. Tenth, spirits and deities will aid and uphold them. Eleventh, a woman’s body will be transformed into a man’s. Twelfth, they will be reborn as daughters of kings and ministers. Thirteenth, they will have an upright and handsome appearance. Fourteenth, they will frequently be reborn in the heavens. Fifteenth, they may sometimes be born as sovereign rulers. Sixteenth, they will possess the penetration of knowledge of past lives — the ability to recall previous existences. Seventeenth, all their requests will be granted. Eighteenth, their entire family will be joyful and harmonious. Nineteenth, all unexpected misfortunes will be eliminated. Twentieth, the karmic paths to lower rebirths will be permanently removed. Twenty-first, they will always arrive safely wherever they go. Twenty-second, their dreams at night will be peaceful and happy. Twenty-third, their departed relatives will be freed from suffering. Twenty-fourth, they will be reborn in good circumstances on the strength of past blessings. Twenty-fifth, they will be praised by all the sages. Twenty-sixth, they will have keen intelligence and sharp faculties. Twenty-seventh, their hearts will be full of compassion and kindness. Twenty-eighth, they will ultimately attain Buddhahood!”
“Furthermore, Akashagarbha Bodhisattva, if in the present or the future, gods, dragons, ghosts, and spirits hear the name of Ksitigarbha, pay reverence to Ksitigarbha’s image, or hear of Ksitigarbha’s past vows and deeds and praise and pay reverence — they shall gain seven kinds of benefits:”
The Buddha continued: “Akashagarbha Bodhisattva, if in the present or future, gods, dragons, ghosts, and spirits hear the name of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, pay reverence to his image, or hear of the past vows and deeds of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva and then praise and pay reverence — they will gain seven kinds of benefits:”
“First, swiftly transcending to the stage of sagehood. Second, elimination of all evil karma. Third, protection and presence of all Buddhas. Fourth, non-retrogression from Bodhi. Fifth, increase of one’s inherent powers. Sixth, complete knowledge of all past lives. Seventh, ultimate attainment of Buddhahood.”
“First, they will quickly transcend to the stage of sagehood. Second, all their past evil deeds will be completely eliminated. Third, all the Buddhas will come to protect and watch over them. Fourth, they will never retrogress on the path to Buddhahood. Fifth, their inherent powers will grow. Sixth, they will gain complete knowledge of their past lives. Seventh, they will ultimately attain Buddhahood!”
At that time, all the Buddhas who had come from the ten directions — an unspeakable, unspeakable number of Buddhas, Tathagatas — along with great Bodhisattvas, gods, dragons, and the eightfold division of beings, heard Shakyamuni Buddha praise and extol the great and awesome spiritual powers of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva as inconceivable, and all marveled that such a thing was unprecedented.
At that moment, all the Buddhas who had come from the ten directions — their number so vast it cannot be spoken — along with the great Bodhisattvas and the gods, dragons, and the eightfold division, heard Shakyamuni Buddha praise and extol the awesome spiritual powers of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva as so inconceivable, and they all marveled: “Never before have we heard of anything so extraordinary!”
At that moment, the heavens of Trayastrimsa rained down immeasurable fragrant flowers, celestial garments, and strings of pearls and jewels as offerings to Shakyamuni Buddha and Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. When the offerings were complete, the entire assembly once more gazed reverently, bowed with joined palms, and withdrew.
At that moment, the skies of Trayastrimsa Heaven showered down, like rain, countless fragrant flowers, celestial garments, and strings of pearls and jewels, as offerings to Shakyamuni Buddha and Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. When the offerings were complete, everyone in the great assembly once more gazed reverently and paid reverence, then joined their palms together and joyfully departed.
Dedication of Merit
May this merit adorn the Buddha’s Pure Land.
May it repay the fourfold kindness above, and relieve the suffering of the three lower realms below.
May all who see or hear of this give rise to the Bodhi mind.
And when this life in a mortal body is done, may we all be reborn together in the Land of Ultimate Bliss.
May the merit of reciting this sutra be used to adorn the Buddha’s pure and beautiful land. May it repay the fourfold great kindness — the kindness of parents, teachers, the nation, and all sentient beings — and relieve the suffering of beings in the three evil paths of hell, hungry ghosts, and animals. May all who see or hear this sutra give rise to the Bodhi mind — the aspiration for awakening. And when this lifetime comes to an end, may we all be reborn together in the Land of Ultimate Bliss!
Reference
- Sutra of the Past Vows of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva - Prajna Literature Library (Traditional Chinese)
- Sutra of the Past Vows of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva - Dharma Drum Mountain E-Sutra Library
- Sutra of the Past Vows of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva — 78-Minute Recitation (Female Voice) 20191022 - YouTube
- “Sutra of the Past Vows of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva” (Volume 1) Recitation - YouTube
- “Sutra of the Past Vows of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva” (Volume 2) Recitation - YouTube
- “Sutra of the Past Vows of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva” (Volume 3) Recitation - YouTube
- A Life-Changing Revelation: Why Can Reciting Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva’s Name Even Once Change Your Destiny? Why Is Earth Itself a Great Place of Practice? The Most Extraordinary Among Bodhisattvas — His Prophecy for Humanity’s Ultimate Fate… [She’s Xiaowu] - YouTube
- Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva: He Is Truly the Most Supreme Among Bodhisattvas — The Secret of Liberating Souls | seeker大师兄 - YouTube