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Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Fundamental
Vow Sutra
Dedication: On the behalf of my mother, brother and father, I dedicate all merits generated from
this endeavor to the Dharmadhatu. May they expeditiously attain Enlightenment.
Version 1.00
Chapter 01: Display of Divine Power in the Palace of the Trayastrimsas Heaven
Chapter 04: The Karmic Retributions to the Sentient Beings' Actions in Jambudvipa
Thus have I heard. Once [Shakyamuni] Buddha was in [the Palace of]
Trayastrimsas Heaven to give a Dharma sermon for his mother.
At that time, the Tathagata smiled and radiated trillions of great bright lights,
which like clouds manifested into innumerable forms. Among these were the
bright light of great perfection, great mercy and compassion, supreme wisdom,
great Prajna, great Samadhi, great Srivatsa, great blissful virtues, great meritorious
virtues, great refuge, and great praise.
After radiating these inexpressible bright lights, the Tathagata released all kinds of
subtle and wondrous sounds. Among these were the sound of the Dana-Paramita
(Alms Giving Paramita), Sila-Paramita (Moral Precepts Paramita), Ksanti-
Paramita (Perfect Patience Paramita), Virya-Paramita (Diligence Paramita),
Dhyana-Paramita (Meditation Paramita), Prajna-Paramita (Wisdom Paramita),
Mercy and Compassion, Rejoicing and Abandonment, Deliverance, Non-Outflow
(refers to "non-outflow" of thoughts and other actions), Wisdom, Great Wisdom,
Lion's Roar, Great Lion's Roar; the sound of the Tathagata's voice echoing like
thunder, and echoing like Great Thunder [audible to all worlds of the Ten
Directions].
Also, deities from other lands and the Saha world came to the gathering, such as
the deities of the seas, rivers, trees, mountains, earth, lakes, crops, day, night,
space, sky, food, and vegetations. All these and other deities assembled there.
There also came from other lands and the Saha world such great ghost kings as the
Evil-Eye Ghost King, Blood Drinking Ghost King, Vital-Energy Consuming Ghost
King, Ova-fetus Devouring Ghost King, Disease-Spreading Ghost King, Poisons-
Halting Ghost King, Compassionate Ghost King, Blessing-Bestowing Ghost King,
and Great Love-Respect Bestowing Ghost King. These and other ghost kings also
came to assemble.
At that time, Shakyamuni Buddha said to the future Dharma King, Manjushri
Bodhisattva-Mahasattva, "Look onto all these Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and eight
classes of supernatural beings gathering here at Trayastrimsas from various worlds.
Do you know how many of them are here?"
Manjushri replied, "World Honored One, [even] if I use my divine power, I cannot
determine the number after thousands of kalpas."
Manjushri said to the Buddha, "World Honored One, in the past, I have long
cultivated virtuous practices and have achieved Unobstructed Wisdom. Upon
hearing the Buddha's truthful words, I immediately believe and accept. However,
the beings of the lesser vehicles, eight classes of supernatural beings, as well as
sentient beings of the future generations will certainly have doubts. Although they
heard the Tathagata's truthful statement and respectfully accepted it, there would
unavoidably arise some slandering. I only hope that the World Honored One will
elaborate on what Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva-Mahasattva did in the `Causal Grounds'
and what vows did he take, so that he is able to accomplish such inconceivable
deeds."
The Buddha said to Manjushri, "As an analogy, imagine if every grass blade, tree,
bush, straw, hemp, bamboo, reed, mountain, stone, dust and every object of three
trillion worlds are each a separate Ganges River. Then imagine that each grain of
sand of these countless Ganges Rivers represents a world. Additionally, every
speck of dust from each and every one of these worlds represents a kalpa. Then
convert every speck of dust that accumulates in these worlds in one kalpa time to
kalpas. The time since Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva had achieved the Tenth Level of
Bodhisattva-hood (highest level Bodhisattva) is thousands of times longer than [the
sum of all of the kalpas in] the previous analogy. This is not mentioning the length
of time Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva spent in Sravaka-hood and Pratyeka-Buddhahood.
Manjushri, this Bodhisattva's majestic, solemn vow is, indeed, inconceivable!"
"In the future, there may be virtuous men or women who after hearing this
Bodhisattva's name, say praises, pay homage, recite his name, make offerings, or
even paint, carve or mold his images. They will have hundreds of consecutive
rebirths into the thirty-three heavens and will never fall into the suffering realms
(hell, hungry ghosts, animals)."
"The Mighty Lion Myriad Deeds All Accomplished Tathagata told the sage, `If
you want to attain this form, you must rescue all suffering sentient beings for long
and extended time.'"
"Manjushri, at that time, the sage vowed, `From now to incalculable kalpas in the
future, I will provide extensive expedient means of deliverance to all of the sinful
and suffering beings in the six realms of samsara, leading all of them to liberation.
Then, I, myself, will realize Buddhahood.' He took such a great vow in front of
that Buddha, and even now, after trillions of inexpressible numbers of kalpas, he
still remains a Bodhisattva."
"During the Semblance Dharma Era of that time, there was a holy Brahman
woman. She was profoundly blessed because of the enormous amount of virtuous
deeds she performed in her previous lives. Admired and respected by the people,
she was also protected by the devas at all times and places. However, her mother
had deviant beliefs and would often disrespect the Three Jewels. At the time, the
Brahman woman tried many expedient means to persuade and lead her mother to
adopt righteous views. Yet, the mother did not completely change her ways. Soon
thereafter, the mother passed away, and her soul fell into Avici (Uninterrupted)
Hell."
"Suddenly she heard a voice from the sky, saying, `Crying holy woman, restrain
your sorrow, for I shall reveal your mother's whereabouts.'"
"The Brahman woman faced skyward with her palms joined and replied, `May I
ask who is the holy Virtuous Being? Who is the one to relieve me of my worries?
Since losing my mother, she has been in my thoughts constantly both day and
night. Yet, there is no place for me to go to find out my mother's place of rebirth.'"
"The voice from above responded again, saying, `I am the one whom you are
worshiping, the Awakened By Flower Meditation Self-Mastery King Tathagata.
Seeing that you [had performed numerous virtuous deeds in your previous lives
and your current life, and] cherish your mother much more than ordinary beings, I
have come to inform you of her place of rebirth.'"
"Upon hearing this, the Brahman woman prostrated herself abruptly onto the
ground [to show her gratitude]. She was badly injured and her attendants came to
hold her steady for quite a long time as she slowly regained consciousness. She
then addressed the sky again, saying, `May the Buddha, in his mercy and
compassion, quickly tell me of my mother's whereabouts, for I feel that my heart
and physical body are about to die!'"
"The Brahman woman returned to her residence after completing the offerings.
Wishing to find out her mother's whereabouts, she reposed herself in seated
meditation and contemplated the title of Awakened By Flower Meditation Self-
Mastery King Tathagata."
"After one day and night [of contemplation, her mind was in a deep meditative
state]. She saw herself being transported to the shore of a boiling sea. On that sea,
there were many beasts with bodies made of iron, flying over or running upon it,
and chasing [people] in all directions. She saw men and women, numbering in the
hundreds of thousands, struggling to stay afloat [in that sea]."
"[She saw] the iron beasts competed with each other to snatch up and devour these
men and women. There were also yaksas in various forms, some with many arms
and numerous eyes, others with many legs and multiple heads, all with teeth as
sharp as swords protruding from their mouths. These yaksas chased and herded
both men and women into [the claws of] the iron beasts, which seized and snapped
at these men and women by either their heads or feet. The various [ensuing
gruesome dismemberments] were too horrible and frightening to be looked upon.
Yet, the Brahman woman felt no fear in her heart because of the strength generated
by her mindfulness of the Buddha."
"Then, a ghost king named No Poison (Vandana) came and prostrated himself
before her. He greeted her, inquiring, `Bodhisattva, for what reason did you come
here?'"
"The Brahman woman replied by inquiring the ghost king, `What is this place?'"
"Vandana answered, `This is the first great sea to the west of the Great Cakravada
Mountain.'"
"Then, the holy woman asked, `I have heard that hells are in the midst of the
Cakravada. Is this true?'"
"Vandana replied, `If not by the use of the divine power, then it must be caused by
karmic forces. Other than these two forces, there is no other way to gain entrance
[into hell].'"
"The Brahman woman asked again, `What causes this seawater to rise and boil?
And why are there so many suffering people and fierce beasts here?'"
"Vandana replied, `Those suffering people are the newly deceased beings from
Jambudvipa, who committed evil deeds. For the period of forty-nine days after
their deaths, none of their relatives performed virtuous acts on their behalf to ease
and deliver them from their suffering. Since they did not perform many virtuous
deeds while alive, their negative karma is guiding them into the various hells.
Consequently, they must first pass through this Great Sea. One Hundred thousands
yojanas to the east of this Great Sea, there is another Great Sea. The suffering in
that Great Sea are twice of the suffering here. To the east of that second Great Sea
there is yet another Great Sea, where the suffering is doubled yet again. These
suffering is the result of the negative karma arisen from these people' negative
speeches, actions and thoughts; and these seas are known collectively as the
Karmic Seas.'"
"The holy woman also asked Ghost King Vandana, `Where are these hells?'"
"Vandana replied, `All hells are within these three seas, and they number in the
hundreds of thousands. Each one is different from the others. There are eighteen
great hells . Then, there are five hundred secondary ones, and within each there is
boundless suffering. Additionally, there are hundreds of thousands of hells in the
next category, and within each is also immeasurable suffering.'"
"The Brahman woman asked the great ghost king, `My mother died recently. Do
you know the whereabouts of her spirit?'"
"The ghost king asked her, `What malicious acts did your mother commit in her
lifetime?'"
"The holy woman replied, `Both my father and mother were Brahmans. My father's
name was Silo Sardrsa; my mother's name was Yue Di Li.'"
"Vandana joined his palms and addressed the holy woman, saying, `I wish that you
would return to your proper realm without concern, remembrance or sorrow. It has
been three days since the sinner, Yue Di Li, ascended to heaven. It is said that her
ascension was the result of her dutiful daughter's offerings, on her behalf, to
Awakened By Flower Meditation Self-Mastery King Tathagata's stupa and temple.
Not only was the Bodhisattva's mother able to leave hell, on that day, all the
sinners in Avici Hell with her also benefited and were reborn with her into
heaven.'"
"Having said this, the ghost king withdrew with his palms joined. Then, the
Brahman woman awoke as if it was a dream and realized this matter had come to a
close. [Afterward], in front of the stupa and image of the Awakened By Flower
Meditation Self-Mastery King Tathagata, the Brahman woman vowed: `Through
all of the future kalpas, for the sake of all suffering sentient beings, I shall provide
extensive expedient means for their deliverance and liberation.'"
The Buddha then told Manjushri, "That ghost king, who was named Vandana at
that time, is now Foremost in Wealth Bodhisattva, and the Brahman woman is now
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva."
At that time, the World Honored One reached out his golden-colored arm and
simultaneously touched the heads of all of the countless manifestations of
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva-Mahasattva from all the unthinkable, immeasurable, and
inexpressible asankhyeya numbers of worlds.
Then, the Buddha told Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, "In the world polluted by the five
kinds of defilements, I have transformed such stubborn sentient beings through my
instructions. [My teachings] enabled them to tame their hearts. [My teachings]
enabled them to forsake their deviant views and return to the righteous paths.
However, for every ten beings, there is still one or two whose evil habits remained.
I also have manifested trillions of emanations to provide extensive expedient
means [for their deliverance and liberation]. There were some with strong virtuous
foundations who would immediately believe and accept [the righteous path] upon
hearing [the Dharma]. There were others with virtuous fruitions who would, after
some diligent persuasion, achieve the [same] accomplishment [as those with
virtuous foundations]. Then, there were those with dull vessels, who would be
awakened only after long periods of instructions. Finally, there were still others
with heavy karma whose hearts would not even muster respect."
"For these various sentient beings, each is different from the others [in
temperaments, abilities, etc.]. [I have generated numerous] emanations to deliver
"Observe my diligence in this difficult task, for many kalpas, of delivering and
liberating such stubborn, sinful and suffering beings. Those beings, whose hearts
are not yet tamed, will be guided by their negative karma to the ill fruitions [of
their negative actions]. If they fall into the suffering realms experiencing great
suffering, remember my instruction to you. Here, in the Trayastrimsas Palace, I
earnestly entrust in you [the responsibility for] the deliverance of all sentient
beings from now to the advent of Maitreya. [Deliver them] so they will forever
leave suffering. [Deliver them] so they shall all meet Buddhas and receive
prophecies predicting that they shall become Buddhas themselves."
At that time, all the separate emanations of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva from all the
countless worlds merged into one form. [Deeply moved by the incredible
responsibility entrusted to him], shedding tears of compassion, he addressed the
Buddha, saying, "For many kalpas, I have received guidance from many Buddhas
which allowed me to attain inconceivable divine powers and great wisdom. My
emanations cover all worlds, as numerous as all the sands of trillions of Ganges
Rivers. In each one of these worlds, I manifest trillions of emanations. Every
emanation delivers trillions of beings enabling them to seek refuge in the Three
Jewels, forever leaving the cycle of life and death, and delivering [them] until
[they] attain the joy of nirvana. If they have performed any virtuous deed in the
Buddha-dharma - even if it is as small as a strand of hair, a droplet of water, a
grain of sand, a speck of dust or even a bit of hair - I shall gradually deliver and
liberate them, enabling them to attain great benefits. I only hope that the World
He stated this twice more to the Buddha, saying, "I only hope that the World
Honored One does not worry about [the deliverance of] those beings of future
generations with negative karma." At that time, the Buddha praised Ksitigarbha
Bodhisattva, saying, "Excellent, excellent! I shall help you to rejoice. You will be
able to fulfill the great vows you took in all these kalpas. The universal
deliverance will be soon completed and you shall finally achieve Buddhahood."
At that time, Lady Maya, [Shakyamuni] Buddha's mother, with her palms joined,
respectfully asked Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, "Holy One, will you elaborate on the
[fruitions of] sentient beings' various malicious actions in Jambudvipa?"
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva replied, "There are [millions upon] millions of worlds and
lands--within some there are hells and within others there are not. Within some
there are women and within others there are not. Within some there is Buddha-
dharma and within others there is not. Likewise, this applies to the presence or
absence of Sravakas and Pratyeka-Buddhas in the various worlds. Thus, karmic
retributions do not occur in hells alone."
Lady Maya restated her question, "I wish to hear about the hells that arise from the
malicious actions [of sentient beings] in Jambudvipa."
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva replied, "Holy Mother, since that is your wish, I shall
briefly address this subject."
At that time, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva said to the Holy Mother, "In Jambudvipa, the
karmic retributions for various malicious actions are as follows: If there are beings
who disregard their filial duties toward their parents and even harm or kill them,
those who do so shall fall into Avici Hell. Even after trillion of kalpas, there is still
without a date for their release. If there are beings who sheds the blood of a
Ksitigarbha Sutra Page 12
Buddha, slander the Three Jewels or disrespect the sutras, those who do so also
shall fall into Avici Hell. Even after trillion of kalpas, there is still without a date
for their release. If there are beings who infringe upon or steal Buddhist
organizations' properties, slander monks or nuns, indulge in carnal lust or harm or
kill within a sangharama (monastery), those who do so shall fall into Avici Hell.
Even after trillion of kalpas, there is still without a date for their release. There
may be beings who pretend to be monks/nuns by taking the monastic vows, but in
their hearts do not uphold these vows. Then using their positions, they abuse the
monastery and its related properties, cheat the laity [by taking their offerings to
true monks/nuns], violate the precepts or commits various other sins. Those who
do so shall fall into Avici Hell. Even after trillions of kalpas, there is still without a
date for their release. If there are beings who steal any property from Buddhist
establishments -- whether it is money or food or fabrics -- or take any kind of
article whatsoever without permission, those who do so shall fall into Avici Hell.
Even after trillions of kalpas, there is still without a date for their release."
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva said, "Holy Mother, if there are beings who committed
these aforementioned sins, they shall fall into the fivefold Avici Hell, where they
cannot receive a moment of reprieve from their ceaseless sufferings."
Lady Maya addressed Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva again, asking, "[For the sake of all
that are present and those in the future], what is this hell known as Avici?"
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva replied, "Holy Mother, the various hells are situated inside
the Great Cakravada Mountains. Of grand hells, there are eighteen. Also, there
are five hundred major hells all with different names. Then, there are hundreds of
thousands of hells of a lesser category, all with different names as well. Among all
these hells, there is one known as Avici. As for Avici Hell, it is in an iron fortress.
This iron fortress's walls encircle more than twenty-six thousand four hundred
miles and are three thousand three hundred miles high. Made entirely out of iron,
there are fierce flames everywhere on top of these walls. Within this iron fortress,
there are many hells which are all inter-connected and all with different names.
Only one of these hells is known as Avici. The walls of this [Avici] Hell encircle
five thousand nine hundred forty miles and is three hundred thirty miles high. It is
also completely made of iron, and fierce flames shoot out of these walls. The
flames from the top of the walls shoot down, covering the walls entirely from top
"Within this hell, there is a torture rack. This rack is so large that it covers three
thousand three hundred miles. When the rack is used on only one sinner, this
sinner will see his body being stretched out to cover the entire rack. When tens of
million of beings are punished together, each will only see his body being stretched
out to cover the entire rack. Such is the karmic retributions for their malicious
deeds."
"Furthermore, these sinful beings experience other sufferings. There are hundreds
of thousands of yaksas and other wicked demons with sword-like teeth and eyes
[that seem] like [it shoot out] lightning flashes. There are those yaksas who have
hands like bronze claws dragging sinners on the floor of hells. Then, there are
yaksas who thrust great spears into the sinners' bodies, mouths, noses, abdomens or
backs. [Then, using the spears impaled in the sinners' bodies, these yaksas] hurl
sinners up into the air, or hurl sinners onto torture racks. Additionally, there are
iron hawks that peck at these sinners' eyes. Then, there are iron serpents that
strangle these sinners by constricting their necks. [Other punishment includes]
hundreds of long nails being driven into sinners' various limbs and joints; their
tongues are pulled out and plowed; their intestines are ripped out and chopped to
pieces; molten bronze are poured into sinners' mouths; white-hot iron [bars] are
coiled around their bodies. These sinners die [from these punishments] countless
thousands of times only to be brought back to life to suffer again. These are the
karmic retributions [for their evil acts]. Even after millions of kalpas, there is still
not a definite date for their release."
"When the hell realm disintegrates along with this world [from decays], these
sinners will be transported to the hells of another world. When that other world
disintegrates as well, they will be transported to yet another world's hells. This
transportation will continue until the world from which they originated reforms
[along with its hells]. Then, they will be returned to the hells of their original
world [to serve out their sentences]. Such is the karmic retributions in Avici Hell."
"Firstly, the suffering occurs both day and night, kalpa after kalpa without any
moment of stoppage (the time of suffering is uninterrupted). Hence, it is called
Avici. "
"Secondly, one person fills it completely, and many people also fill it completely
(uninterrupted by forms). Hence, it is called Avici."
"Fourthly, regardless whether they are males or females, regardless of their race,
regardless whether they are young or old, rich or poor, nagas or gods, devas or
ghosts--for all who fall into this hell, the karmic retribution [for their karma] is the
same without any difference in punishment (karmic retributions uninterrupted by
the sinners' sex, race, age, etc.). Hence, it is called Avici."
"Fifthly, if fallen into this hell, from the time these beings enter until the hundred
thousands of kalpas in the future, every day and night, they will die many
thousands of times and be revived to die yet again. Despite their constant
pleadings, they are unable to receive even a moment of reprieve unless their
negative karma has been exhausted. Only then will these beings escape and be
reborn into another realm. Otherwise, their lives in Avici continue (uninterrupted
life span in Avici Hell until their negative karma is exhausted). Hence, it is called
Avici."
Having heard this, Lady Maya joined her palms with sadness and concerns. She
paid homage to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva and withdrew.
At that time, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva said to the Buddha, "World Honored One,
[only] through the Tathagata's divine power am I able to manifest my emanations
in trillions of worlds to rescue all suffering sentient beings. If it were not for the
power of the Tathagata's great compassion, I would be unable to perform such
transformations. Now, I have been entrusted by the Buddha to deliver and liberate
all sentient beings in the six realms of samsara until Ajita (Maitreya) achieve
Buddhahood. World Honored One, do not worry [about their deliverance, I shall
faithfully perform the entrusted task]."
At that time, the Buddha told Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, "The natures and
consciousness of all sentient beings who have not yet been liberated are capricious.
Their evil habits [lead them to] generate negative karma while their virtuous habits
[lead them to] produce good karma. Whether they do good or ill is dependent on
the circumstances which they face as they revolve in the five realms without a
moment of rest. After countless kalpas as numerous as there are dust, they are still
deluded by their karmic obstructions. They are like fishes entering into fishing
nets after mistaking these nets for long water streams. [After long struggles], they
finally escape temporarily, only to be trapped in the nets again. This [type of]
sentient being concerns me the most. Yet, since you faithfully abide by your past
vows, the same solemn vow that you have taken over numerous kalpas to deliver
all sentient beings, what is there for me to be concern of?"
"In the past, countless asankhyeya, nayuta, inexpressible numbers of kalpas ago,
there was a Buddha known as Sarvajnasiddharta Tathagata, who had the
descriptive title of Arahat, Samyaksambuddha, Vidyacarana- Sampanna, Sugata,
Lokavid, Anuttara, Purusa-Damyasarathi, Sastadevamanusyanam, Buddha and
Bhagavan. This Buddha had a lifespan of sixty thousand kalpas."
"Before taking his monastic vows, he was the king of a small country and friends
with the king of a neighboring country. Both kings practiced the ten virtues for
sentient beings' benefits. In the neighboring country, the people often committed
sinful acts. [To lead these people onto the paths to Enlightenment], these two
kings devised to provide numerous expedient means to hasten these people's
deliverance. One king took the pledge to achieve Buddhahood first in order to
deliver all these people. The other king pledged to deliver all these people first. If
he does not help them to find tranquility and realize Bodhi (great wisdom) first, he
pledged he does not resolve to become a Buddha." The Buddha said to
Samadhisvararaja Bodhisattva-Mahasattva, "The king who pledged to become a
Buddha first became Sarvajnasiddharta Tathagata. The king who pledged to
deliver all the sinful suffering beings and did not resolve to become a Buddha is
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva."
"The Arahat asked her, `What is your wish [for providing such of offering]?'"
"Prabhacaksuh replied, `Since the day of my mother's passing, I have tried to earn
merits on her behalf to rescue her. Yet, I do not know to which realm she has been
reborn.'"
"The Arahat took pity on her and entered Samadhi (deep meditative state) to
determine her mother's whereabouts. [In his meditation], he saw that
Prabhacaksuh's mother had fallen into hell experiencing severe suffering. The
Arahat asked Prabhacaksuh, `What did your mother do while she was alive? She is
currently in hell and in extreme suffering.'"
"Prabhacaksuh replied, `My mother had a habit of eating seafood. She particularly
loved to eat fish fingerlings and turtle hatchlings Whether boiled or fried, she
devoured them to her heart's delight. Counting the numbers she had consumed
over her lifetime, it must number into the millions. Honored One, please have pity.
How do I rescue her?'"
"The Arahat took pity and offered her an expedient mean. He advised
Prabhacaksuh, `You should paint the image of the Pure-Lotus-Eyes Tathagata;
then, faithfully and diligently recite his name. This will bring benefits for both the
living and the dead.'"
"Upon hearing this, Prabhacaksuh immediately sold off her treasured possessions
and [used the money to] have Pure-Lotus-Eyes Buddha's image painted. Then, she
made offerings and paid great homage [with most sincere respect] to the painting.
All the while, she was often in tears [being concerned over the fate of her mother].
One night not long afterward, that Buddha manifested his glowing golden body
and appeared in her dream. He was as tall as Mount Sumeru and radiated great
light. He told Prabhacaksuh, `Not long from now, your mother will be reborn into
your household. After experiencing the suffering of hunger and cold, the infant
will be able to speak.'"
"Upon hearing these words, Prabhacaksuh knew this [infant] was her mother. She
was in such anguish that she was barely able to speak. [Choking back] her tears,
she said to the servant child, `Since you were my mother, do you know what were
your sins? What were the malicious deeds that caused you to fall into the realms
of suffering?'"
"The servant's infant replied, `My negative karma arose from the killing [of those
animals that I consumed], and slandering. If it were not for your virtuous deeds
and merits [performed on my behalf], I would still be in hell and cannot [even
temporarily] be liberated from the suffering.'"
"Prabhacaksuh then asked, `[O mother] how painful is the suffering in hell?'"
"The infant said, `I cannot endure to retell the sufferings [for it pains my heart too
much]. Even for a hundred or a thousand years, I cannot fully expressed the
amount of suffering.'"
"Upon hearing this, [Prabhacaksuh could bear it no more]. She turned skyward
and cried aloud, `I wish my mother is forever liberated from hell. After this 13
years of life, I wish my mother does not suffer any more punishment or fall into
any of the three suffering realms. O' Buddhas of the Ten Directions take pity on
me. Listen to my solemn pledge taken on my mother behalf. If my mother can
forever leave the three realms of suffering, not to be reborn into an impoverish
family, and will never even take the form of a woman again, I vow this before the
statue of Pure Lotus Eyes Tathagata. From this day forward to all of the trillions
of kalpas in the future, I vow I shall liberate all beings in the three realms of
sufferings in all of the trillions of worlds. I vow to liberate them all so that all of
"In the future, there may be men or women who do not perform any virtuous
deeds, who only commit malicious deeds, even do not believe in the laws of cause
and effect, who lie and indulge in perverted lusts, who always use foul language
and speak ill of people behind their backs, or who defame Mahayana practitioners.
These people [who commit these various offenses] will certainly fall into hell. If
they encounter a virtuous person who persuades them to seek refuge in the
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva in the time to snap one's fingers, then these sinful beings
will be liberated from the karmic retributions of their deeds and avoid the realms of
suffering. If they would sincerely seek refuge pay homage, praise Ksitigarbha
Bodhisattva, make offerings of incense, fabrics, various jewels, food and other
items, then in the future, they will be reborn into the heavens for trillions of kalpas
and enjoy great happiness. Even if they exhausted their blessings in heaven and
have to be reborn into the human realm, for hundreds of thousand of kalpas, they
At that time. the Four Directional Devarajas rose from their seats with their palms
joined and respectfully asked the Buddha, "World Honored One, since Ksitigarbha
Bodhisattva took this great vow countless times over countless kalpas, why has he
not completed the deliverance of all sentient beings? Why is he taking this
immense vow again? We hope that the World Honored One will explain it to us."
The Buddha said to the Devarajas of the Four Directions, "Excellent, excellent!
For the benefits of you and that of the present and future devas, human, and other
beings., I will explain how Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva compassionately delivers all
suffering sentient beings through expedient means on the path of life and death in
Jambudvipa of the Saha world."
The Devarajas of the Four Directions said, "Yes, indeed, World Honored One, we
will be delighted to listen."
The Buddha said to the Devarajas of the Four Directions, "From the countless
kalpas in the past to now, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva has been delivering sentient
beings. Yet, he still has not completed his vow. He sees that in the future
countless kalpas, the undelivered sentient beings' karma continue to creep and
entangle, [trapping them deeper and deeper into samsara]. It is because of his great
compassion for them that he takes this solemn vow again. It is also because of his
great compassion that Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva instructs and transforms sentient
beings through countless expedient means in Jambudvipa of the Saha world."
"These are the karmic retributions to the malicious actions produce by sentient
beings' body, speech, and mind in Jambudvipa. I have only briefly mentioned
[some of the] hundreds of thousands of karmic retributions. The sentient beings in
Jambudvipa suffer from various types and levels of karmic retributions.
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva uses hundreds of thousands of expedient methods to
instruct and transform them. [For those sinners who do not change their ways and
repent], they will first receive these [aforementioned] karmic retributions to their
malicious deeds, and then fall into hell. Even after many kalpas, their date of
release is still indeterminable in the distant future. Hence, you Devarajas of the
Four Directions, who protect humans and their countries, do not let these karmic
obstructions delude these sentient beings."
After hearing this, the Devarajas of the Four Directions were sadden and withdrew
with their palms joined.
"Compassionate One, to the east of Jambudvipa, there are these mountains called
the Great Cakravada. These mountains are [so high and so deep] that even the
light from the sun and moon cannot pierce its depth. [The hells are located deep
inside these mountains]. Of the Great Hells, there is the one named Avici and the
one called Mahavici. Then, there these hells named Four Corners, Flying Daggers,
Fire Arrows, Crushed between Mountains, Piercing Spears, Iron Carts, Iron Racks,
Iron Oxen, Iron Clothings, Thousand Swords, Iron Donkeys, Molten Bronze,
Embracing Pillars, Flying Lava Rocks, Plowing Tongues, Chopping Heads,
Scorching Feet, Pecking Eyes, Iron Pellets, Angry-Quarrels, Iron Reapers, and
Many Hatred."
Samantabhadra Bodhisattva responded, "I have long known the agonies resulting
from the karmic retributions in the three realms of suffering. I wish that you would
describe it for the sentient beings of the present and future, so that in the future and
the Terminal Dharma Era, all of them may be awakened upon hearing these
truthful words. May they seek refuge in the Buddhas [and the path to
Enlightenment]."
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva then said, "Compassionate One, the suffering in hells are
as follows. There is a hell in which the sinners' tongues are pulled out and plowed.
Then, there is another hell which the yaksas rip out sinners' hearts and eat them.
There is a hell in which sinners are cooked in boiling waters. Then, there is
another hell which sinners are forced to embrace burning-hot bronze pillars. There
is a hell in which sinners' bodies are burned in fires. Then, there is another hell
which is always freezing; in another, [the sinners are submerged in] unlimited
amounts of feces and urine; in another, flying white-hot `morning stars' [strike the
sinners]; in another, fire spears [pierce the sinners' bodies]; in another, the sinners'
chests and backs are pounded; in another, sinners' hands and feet are burned; in
another, iron snakes suffocate sinners [by coiling around their necks]; in another,
iron dogs [tear the sinners into pieces]; in another, iron mules [trample the
sinners]."
At that time, the World Honored One's entire body radiated tremendous amounts of
light, illuminating countless Buddhas' worlds numbering in all the sands in trillions
of Ganges Rivers. Then, he proclaimed in a clear voice audible to all Buddhas'
worlds, saying, "All Bodhisattva-Mahasattvas, eight classes of supernatural beings,
men, and ghosts -- hear my praises of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva-Mahasattva. In the
Worlds of the Ten Directions, he has manifested unimaginable power of majesty
and compassion. He has protected and delivered [countless multitudes of sentient
beings] in all forms of suffering. After I enter into nirvana, all of you,
Bodhisattva-Mahasattvas, eight classes of supernatural beings and others must
render extensive assistances to protect this Sutra, thereby allowing all sentient
beings to achieve nirvana themselves."
At that time, a Bodhisattva in the assembly named Samantavipula, with his palmed
joined, respectfully asked the Buddha, "Today, I witnessed the World Honored
One's sincere praise of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva for having such inconceivable
great divine powers and virtues. For the benefits of sentient beings in the future
Terminal Dharma Era, I wish the World Honored One would explain how
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva benefits humans, devas and the [associated] causes and
fruitions. So, all of the eight classes of supernatural beings and future sentient
beings will honor the Buddha's teachings."
At that time, the World Honored One told Samantavipula Bodhisattva and the four
groups of Buddha's Followers, saying, "Listen closely, I shall briefly explain how
humans and devas [can attain great] merits and blessings through the beneficial
[practices provided by] Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva."
"If there are women who are unhappy with the female form, they should whole-
heartedly make offerings to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva paintings or statues daily.
Also, they should often make offerings of incense, flowers, food, fabrics, prayer
banners, money, and jewels. Then, after the end of these virtuous women's present
lives, for billions of kalpas, they will not even be reborn into worlds that have
women, much less be reborn as women themselves. The only exception is if out of
their compassion to deliver sentient beings, they choose to take female form again.
Otherwise, by the virtue of their sincere offerings to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva and
its associated meritorious power, for billions of kalpas, they will never be reborn in
female form."
"Moreover, Samantavipula, if there are women who are unhappy with their ugly
appearances or are afflicted with many illnesses, they should whole-heartedly gaze
upon and pay homage to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. Even if they only pay sincere
respect for about the time it takes to eat a meal, they will always be reborn with
dignified appearance, without any deformities, for millions of kalpas. If these ugly
women do not dislike the female form, then for millions of kalpas, they will be
reborn to as princess, queens, or daughters of honored families. They will also be
born with dignified appearance without any physical deformity. These blessings
are the result of paying sincere homage to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva."
"Samantavipula, in the future, there may be men or women who have been ill and
bed ridden for a long time. Their pleas to recover or die are not answered. These
patients may have nightmares about demons and deceased relatives. They may
have nightmares about traveling on dangerous paths. They may have been pressed
by unseen forces against their beds or have their vital energy stolen by demons at
night. They may have nightmares of being dragged away by ghosts [into suffering
realms]. They may often cry out in their sleep and cannot find happiness. These
Ksitigarbha Sutra Page 28
problems persist for years while they wither away. All these [symptoms] are the
result of karmic deliberations in which the judgments have not yet been rendered.
Therefore, these people do not die, nor can they recover from their afflictions."
"Mortal men and women's eyes cannot see the true causes behind these suffering.
Hence, [patients' families or friends] should go before the Buddhas and
Bodhisattvas' images and loudly chant this [Ksitigarbha] Sutra once with sincerity
(if the patients are unable to do so themselves). They may also make an offering of
these patients' treasured possessions, clothings, jewelries, or deeds of home or
lands to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. They should make the offering before these
patients and loudly declare, `We , (names of families/friends), are making an
offering of these items to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva on the behalf of this/these
patients, (names of patients). These items will be offered to Ksitigarbha
Bodhisattva, and will be used [to finance] the painting of Bodhisattva's images,
printing copies of this Sutra, used to help build temples, to light shrines, or be
donated to monasteries.' Say this declaration three times so the patients can hear it.
If these patients have slipped into unconsciousness or even passed away, then for
one to seven days immediately afterward, chant this Sutra loudly and earnestly.
When these patients' present lives end, they will be liberated from sins committed
in their past lives, even including those five sins which will cause them to fall into
Avici Hell. In the places of their rebirths, they will remember their deeds in their
past lives."
"The blessings will be even greater for those virtuous men or women who [provide
free] copies of this Sutra or make [Ksitigarbha] Bodhisattva statues themselves.
They may also persuade others to [provide free] copies of this Sutra or make
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva statues as well. Those who do so will certainly receive
great benefits."
"Hence, Samantavipula, if you see people chanting this Sutra or paying respect to
this Sutra, or even having just one thought of praising this Sutra, you must provide
hundreds of types of assistances to these people. You must persuade these people
not to regress from their diligence, for they will attain trillions of unimaginable
merits in the present and future."
"Samantavipula, you must use your divine power to motivate these people to
earnestly chant this Sutra in front of statues or paintings of the Buddhas and
Bodhisattvas, or motivate them to ask others to earnestly chant this Sutra in their
place. After this Sutra has been chanted with devotion three or seven times [on the
behalf of these ghosts or apparitions], these ghosts or apparitions trapped in the
suffering realms will immediately receive deliverance and will never appear in
these people's dreams again."
"Samantavipula, in the future, there may be people occupying the lowest stations in
life, such as servants, maids, or those deprived of their freedoms (prisoners,
disabled people, etc). If they realize their present situations are the result of their
past karma and feel the need to repent, they should earnestly pay homage to
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva statues or paintings and devotedly chant Ksitigarbha
Bodhisattva's name ten thousand times in a period of seven days. For those who
do so, after the conclusion of their current lives, for tens of millions of lives in the
future, they will often be born into nobility and not experience the agonies of the
three suffering realms."
"Samantavipula, in the future, there may be newborn babies that come into the
households of Ksatriyas, Brahmans, gentries, laities, common people, or those of
other clans in Jambudvipa. Be these newborns male or female, in the first seven
days after their birth, the families should chant this inconceivable [Ksitigarbha]
Sutra with devotions on these babies' behalf. In the same seven days, the families
should further devotedly chant Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva's name ten thousand times
"Hence, Samantavipula, you should know that Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva has such
indescribable trillions of great divine powers and provide countless benefits. The
sentient beings of Jambudvipa and this Mahasattva have great affinity. If they hear
this Bodhisattva's name, see this Bodhisattva statues, and even hear this Sutra, be it
only a stanza or a phrase or just three to five words, they can attain tranquility in
their present lives. In the future hundreds of thousands of lives, they will attain
dignified forms and often be born to noble families."
The Buddha told Samantavipula, "This Sutra has three names. One is Ksitigarbha
Bodhisattva's Fundamental Vows. It is also called Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva's
Deeds, and the Power of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva's Oaths. For countless kalpas,
this Bodhisattva has taken great oaths to benefit sentient beings. Hence you,
Bodhisattva-Mahasattva, should help to circulate this Sutra in accordance with his
oaths." Upon hearing this, Samantavipula paid respect to the Buddha by joining
his palms and withdrew.
"World Honored One, those beings who do evil often start with small acts. Slowly,
their acts become more evil, and eventually their evil grows to immense
proportions. Hence, when these evil beings are about to die, their families should
do virtuous deeds on their behalf as provisions for them in the after-life. The
families may put up prayer banners, make offerings of light (candlelight, lamps,
Ksitigarbha Sutra Page 32
etc.) at shrines, chant sutras, or make offerings to statues of Buddhas and other
holy beings (e.g., Bodhisattvas, Arahats, etc). The families may also chant the
names of Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Pratyeka-Buddhas so that these names may
be heard by the dying and reach their consciousness. On the account of their
malicious deeds, these dying people should fall into the realms of suffering. Their
punishments shall be commuted because of the `Causes for Holiness' (virtuous
deeds) accumulated by their relatives on their behalf. If the families further
perform numerous charitable deeds on the sinners' behalf within forty-nine days of
their death, then the families shall enable the sinners to forever leave the suffering
realms and be reborn into human or heavenly realms to receive greater happiness.
The surviving relatives shall also gain immeasurable benefits."
"World Honored one, I observe that if the sentient beings in Jambudvipa perform
any virtuous deed in accordance to the Buddha-dharma, even if it is as small as a
strand of hair, droplet of water, pebble of sand or speck of dust, they shall fully
attain the resulting benefits."
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva replied, "Elder, for the sake of the present and future
sentient beings and through the power of the Buddha, I shall briefly address this."
"Elder, if the present and future dying sentient beings hear the name of a Buddha,
Bodhisattva, or Pratyeka-Buddha on the day of their passing, regardless whether or
not they had committed sins, they shall be liberated. There may be men or women
who did not perform virtuous deeds but instead committed many sins while alive.
After they die, if their families perform virtuous deeds on the deceased people's
behalf, only one-seventh of the merit will benefit the deceased. Sixth-seventh of
the merits will benefit the families. Hence, men and women of the present and
future, they should accumulate merit themselves while they are healthy, so they
can receive the full benefits."
"The demon Avidya [Death] often arrives unexpectedly. The spirits of the dead
(non-virtuous beings who do not go directly to heaven or Pure Land after their
deaths) are uncertain of their fates. In the forty-nine days after their deaths, their
consciousness are in states of deafness and delusion while the hell judges debate
over their virtuous deeds and evil acts. They shall be reborn in accordance with
their karma when the judgments are rendered. During the time of uncertainty
[before finding out their fates], they are in deep despair. Their despair will be even
greater if they fall into the realms of suffering. Therefore, within this forty-nine
days after death and before they are reborn, in every thought, they are hoping that
their families would generate blessing power by performing virtuous acts on their
behalf to rescue them. After the forty-nine days have passed, they receive their
sentences in accordance to their karma. If they are judged to be sinners, for
hundreds or thousands of years, there is no deliverance [from the three realms of
suffering]. If they had committed the five sins which cause one to fall into Avici
"Moreover Elder, for these sinners after their deaths, their families may make
vegetarian meal offerings to the Buddha and the Sangha. The families should
ensure during the preparation that no food are wasted or thrown away, not even
small vegetable leaves or the water used to rinse the rice. Also, no one should eat
the food before it have been offered to the Buddha and the Sangha. If someone
sneaks even a tiny taste of the offerings, then there is a lack of diligence and the
dead will not receive any benefit. For those who are diligent and offered clean
food to Buddha and the Sangha, the dead shall receive one-seventh of the merit."
"Hence Elder, after the passing of their parents or other loved-ones, if sentient
beings of Jambudvipa devotedly and diligently make offerings of vegetarian meals,
those who do so shall benefit themselves and the dead."
With that being said, in Trayastrimsas Palace, all of the countless deities and
ghosts of Jambudvipa resolved to realize boundless Bodhicitta. The
Mahapratbhana Elder paid his respect and withdrew.
At that time, the Lord of Hell, King Yama, and countless ghost kings from within
Cakravada Mountains arrived at Trayastrimsas where the Buddha was [giving the
sermon]. Some of these ghost kings' [names] were Vicious, Many Evils, Great
Quarrel, White Tiger, Blood Tiger, Red Tiger, Misfortune Spreading, the Flying,
Lightning Flash Eyes, Wolf Fangs, Thousand Eyes, Animal-Devouring, Rock-
Carrying, Blessing Removal, Disaster Administering, Harvest Administering,
Wealth Administering, Lord of Domesticated Animals, Lord of Fowls, Lord of
Beasts, Lord of Demons, Gestation Administering, Life Administering, Illnesses
Administering, Accidents Administering, Three Eyes, Four Eyes, Five Eyes,
Chislis, Great-Chislis, Chiliksa, Great-Chiliksa, Anato Ghost King and Great-
Anato Ghost King. Each of these and other great ghost kings reside in Jambudvipa
along with hundreds of thousands of minor ghost kings. All of them have their
Ksitigarbha Sutra Page 35
charges and jurisdictions. Through the divine power of the Buddha and
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva-Mahasattva, they were all able to arrive at Trayastrimsas
and assembled themselves on one side.
At that time, with his palms joined, King Yama knelt down on one knee and said to
the Buddha, "World Honored One, through the divine power of the Buddha and
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva-Mahasattva, these ghosts kings and I are able to
participate in this great gathering at Trayastrimsas. It allowed us to [receive your
teachings and] gain virtuous benefits. However, I do have a minor question which
I ask with trepidation. It is my hope that the World Honored One would
compassionately answer it."
The Buddha told King Yama, "You may ask your question. I shall answer it for
you."
King Yama bowed to the World Honored One, then respectfully gazed upon
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva before asking the Buddha, "World Honored One, I [have]
observed that Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva tirelessly [toils away] delivering suffering
sentient beings through numerous expedient means in the six realms of samsara.
This is [a testament to] the unimaginable divine power of the Bodhisattva-
Mahasattva. Yet, many of these sentient beings fall back into suffering realms not
long after Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva had rescued them. World Honored One, since
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva has such inconceivable divine power, why don't these
sentient beings seek refuge in the virtuous paths and obtain eternal salvation?
[Why do they commit sins again, which cause them to fall back into the suffering
realms?] I wish the World Honored One would explain this for me."
The Buddha told King Yama, "The sentient beings of Jambudvipa have stubborn
natures which are very difficult to defuse and tame. Thus, [Ksitigarbha]
Mahasattva has spent countless kalpas rescuing them one-by-one, including those
sinners who fell into hells, therefore enabling them to reach liberation earlier. The
Bodhisattva uses expedient methods to liberate them from their fundamental
karma. Then, he enables them to realize the events of their past lives. [All these
are done to enable them to see the hardships of traveling on the evil paths and to
motivate them to seek eternal salvation through Enlightenment]. But, these
sentient beings' evil habits are extremely strong. [After being rescued], it does not
"This is analogous to people who lost their way and entered into dangerous paths.
On these dangerous paths, there are many yaksas, tigers, lions, wolves, venomous
snakes, and scorpions. At any instant, the lost people can be killed by these lethal
threats. There is a virtuous being who knows about these dangers and how to
restrain them. If he encounters these lost people, he would ask them: Why did
they enter into these dangerous paths? What methods can they use to restrain these
dangers? Upon hearing this, the lost people realize how dangerous their situation
is. Immediately, they retreat and plead [for the virtuous person to help them] leave
these paths. The virtuous person will lead them out of the dangerous paths and
onto safe paths, so they can find peace and tranquility. After reaching the safe
paths, the virtuous person will advise the formerly lost people not to travel on the
evil paths again. For those who enter evil paths, it is very difficult for them to
escape and most lose their lives. [Upon reflecting how dangerous their situations
were], the formerly lost are extremely grateful."
"Before parting ways, the virtuous being will advise the formerly lost people, `If
you see people approach evil paths, warn them of the many deadly threats within
and warn them that those who enter often lose their lives. Do not let these people
go to their deaths.'"
At that time, the Vicious Ghost King joined his palms and respectfully said to the
Buddha, "In Jambudvipa, my fellow ghost kings are countless in number. Some
ghost kings reward people while others punish people. Our responsibilities are all
different. [It is the sentient beings'] karma that cause us and our subordinates to
roam the world and enforce karmic retributions of punishing the many malicious
people and rewarding the few virtuous people. We pass through cities, villages,
plantations, and peoples' homes. [We may find] that there are men or women who
perform virtuous deeds, be it as small as hanging prayer banners, offerings of some
flowers and incenses to Buddha statues, chanting sutras, or making offerings to just
one stanza or phrase of sutras. My fellow ghost kings will respect such people
like we would respect the Buddhas of the Three Times. We will also command
our subordinates, all of whom possess great power, and the earth deities to protect
these people. We will prevent unfortunate incidents, accidents, illnesses, and
events contrary to these virtuous people's wishes from occurring near their homes,
much less occurring within their own homes."
The Buddha praised the great ghost king, "Ah, good, good. If your fellow ghost
kings and King Yama can protect virtuous men and women, I shall command the
Great Brahma and Sakra (Indra) to protect you and your fellow ghost kings."
With that being said, the Life Administering Ghost King joined his palms and said
to the Buddha, "World Honored One, my charge is to oversee the birth and death
of sentient beings in Jambudvipa. It is I who decide when they are born and when
they die. I have vowed to benefit these sentient beings. Yet, they do not
understand my wishes, so many of them are unable to find peace in either birth or
death. Why? The humans of Jambudvipa would do good deeds to gain blessings
when they wish to conceive children or when their children are born. Delighted by
these good deeds, the local deities protect mothers, unborn fetus, and newborn
"Also, for the people who are about to die in Jambudvipa, regardless whether they
are virtuous or evil, I wish to help them avoid the realms of suffering. Of course, I
wish to help those who cultivate virtuous roots even more because they assist me
in my endeavor (of delivering human beings). Even when these virtuous people of
Jambudvipa are dying, hundreds to thousands of evil ghosts and demons will try to
delude them. These evil ghosts and demons will assume the forms of the dying
people's parents or relatives and lead them into the realms of sufferings. The
situations will be much worse for those beings who committed evil acts."
"World Honored One, when these men and women in Jambudvipa are on the verge
of death, their minds are deluded and are unable to distinguish between good and
evil; neither can their eyes see nor can their ears hear. Thus, the dying people's
relatives must make great offerings, recite sutras, and chant the names of Buddhas
and Bodhisattvas. These virtuous deeds will enable the dying people to avoid the
realms of suffering and disperse the evil ghosts and demons."
"World Honored One, at the time of their death, if sentient beings are able to hear
the name of just one Buddha, Bodhisattva, or hear a stanza or phrase of Mahayana
sutra, I observe that these beings will be liberated from minor sins that would have
The Buddha praised Life Administering Ghost King, saying, "Your great
compassion enabled you to make such a great vow of protecting beings at the time
of their birth and death. Do not retreat from your oath to protect them at the
moment of their birth and assist them to liberate themselves at the moment of their
deaths. Enable all of them to liberate themselves and attain peace and tranquility
forever."
The Ghost King replied to the Buddha, "Do not have concern. I shall uphold my
vow as long as I exist to protect the sentient beings of Jambudvipa, so at the time
of their birth and death, they can attain peace and tranquility. I only wish these
sentient beings believe and follow my advise at the time of birth and death. All
those who do so will gain liberation and receive great benefits."
At that time, the Buddha told Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, "This Life Administering
Ghost King has been a great ghost king for thousands of lives, protecting sentient
beings at the time of their birth and death. This [powerful ghost form] is not his
true form. It is because of this Mahasattva's great compassion that he appears in
the form of a powerful ghost. One hundred seventy kalpas from now, he shall
become a Buddha with the title, Nirabhasa Tathagata. The kalpa will be called
Peace and Tranquility. His world will be named Pure Abode. His Buddha life
span will be countless of kalpas. Ksitigarbha, these are the unimaginable deeds of
this great ghost king. The devas and humans delivered by him will also be
innumerable."
At that time, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva said to the Buddha, "World Honored One,
for the sake of future sentient beings, I shall now expound on methods which will
enable them to gain great benefits in their live. I only hope the World Honored
One will be willing to listen."
"Moreover, as many kalpas as there are sands in the Ganges River in the past, there
was a Buddha in the world. His title was Ratnasuabhava (Jewel Nature) Tathagata.
After hearing this Buddha's name, if there are men or women who devotedly seek
refuge [in this Buddha] in the time to snap one's fingers, then they shall never
regress from the Path to Enlightenment."
"Additionally, in the past, there was a Buddha in the world with the name of
Supreme Padma (Lotus) Tathagata. If there are men or women who hear this
Buddha's name, they shall be reborn thousands of consecutive time into the Six
Heavens of Desire. The blessing will be greater for those who recite his name with
devotion."
"Moreover, in the past, inexpressible asankhyeya numbers of kalpas ago, there was
a Buddha in the world by the name of Simhananda (Lion's Roar) Tathagata. After
hearing this Buddha's name, if there are men or women who have a thought of
seeking refuge [in this Buddha], then they shall encounter countless Buddhas who
will touch their heads and predict their future Enlightenment."
"Moreover in the past, there was a Buddha named Vipasyin Buddha. If there are
men or women who hear this Buddha's name, they shall never fall into the realms
of suffering. They also shall often be reborn in the human or heavenly realms to
receive superior subtle blessings."
"Additionally, in the past, as many kalpas ago as all of the sands in innumerable
Ganges Rivers, there was a Buddha in the world named Ratnasambhava Tathagata.
If there are men or women who hear this Buddha's name, they shall ultimately not
fall into the realms of suffering. They shall often be born into heaven and receive
blessings."
"Moreover, in the past, there was a Buddha with the title Ratnalaksana Tathagata.
After hearing this Buddha's name, if there are men or women who develop
devotion [to this Buddha in their hearts], then they shall soon attain the fruition of
Arahat-hood."
"Moreover, in the past, there was a Buddha with the title of Mahabhijna-Sumeru
Tathagata. If there are men or women who hear this Buddha's title, then they shall
encounter as many Buddhas as there are sands in the Ganges River. These
Buddhas will give them extensive Dharma teaching. Thus, it is certain they will
realize Bodhi."
"If just one relative of dying people chants the Buddha's name on the dying
people's behalf, the dying people shall be liberated from their sins with the
exception of the five sins that cause one to fall into Avici Hell. Although the five
Avici sins are extremely severe and the [sinners] cannot be released even after
millions of kalpas, the karmic retribution will be slowly diminished as the result of
someone chanting the Buddha's name on the sinners' behalf when the sinners were
about to die. It will be [even more beneficial] if the sentient beings chant the
Buddha's name for themselves. They shall receive immeasurable amounts of
blessings and be liberated from immeasurable numbers of sins."
At that time, the Buddha told Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, "Now, at this great
gathering in Trayastrimsas Palace, I shall expound the comparable weight of merit
generated from alms-giving in Jambudvipa. Listen attentively to my explanation."
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva said to the Buddha, "I will gladly listen to your answers."
The Buddha told Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, "In Jambudvipa, there are [people with
the greatest of earthly blessings, such as] kings, high-ranking government officials,
honorable elders, Ksatriyas, Brahmans, and others. They may encounter people
[who have the least blessings, such as those] who are the most destitute; or those
"Furthermore, Ksitigarbha, in the future, there may be virtuous men or women who
come across Buddhist monasteries and Mahayana Sutras. If these monasteries and
sutras are new, then they make offerings, say praises, and pay respect with their
palms joined. If these monasteries and sutras are old or damaged, then they restore
it. It does not matter if they do these restorations by themselves or persuade others
to assist in the effort. Those who were persuaded to assist shall often be reborn as
kings of small nations for thirty lifetimes. Those people who persuade others to
repair the damaged [monasteries and sutras] shall be reborn as Chakravartins. In
the future, these Chakravartins will instruct these kings of small countries and
transform them through the Buddha-dharma."
"World Honored One, I observe that the present and future living beings may
construct shrines to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva out of clay, marble, bamboo, or wood
at clean locations on the south side of their residences. Place within these shrines
either paintings or statues of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva made of gold, silver, bronze
or iron; then, perform acts of devotion by burning incense, making offerings,
paying homage and reciting praises to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva before these
shrines. For those sentient beings who do so, their residences shall be benefited in
these ten ways. What are these ten benefits?"
6. Calamities such as flood and fires will not strike these residences.
7. Ghosts and demons who steal away people's blessings (derived from their
merit in previous lives) will be unable to enter these residences.
9. Deities will protect the occupants, both inside and away from these residences.
10. The inhabitants of these residences will often encounter `Causes for Holiness'
[enabling them to gradually reach enlightenment.]
"World Honored One, for the present and future sentient beings, those who
perform such offerings at the south side of their residences shall attain these
benefits."
Then, Prithivi again addressed the Buddha, "World Honored One, in the future,
there may be virtuous men or women who have both the images and Sutras of
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva in their residences. If they further perform acts of
devotion by chanting this Sutra and making offerings to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, I
shall use my divine power to protect them both day and night. They shall not be
harmed by [calamities like] flood or fire; burglars or thieves; or minor or severe
accidents. All harmful events shall be avoided."
The Buddha said to Prithivi, "Few deities can match your great divine power. All
the lands of Jambudvipa is under your protection. All of the grasses, trees, sand,
rocks, crops, hemp, bamboo, reeds, crops, rice, and gems that comes from the
earth, they all come to being by your divine power. You also often praise the
benefits provided by Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva [to sentient beings]. [Therefore,]
your divine powers and merit are hundreds of thousands of times greater than that
of average earth deities."
"In the future, there may be virtuous men or women who make offerings to
[Ksitigarbha] Bodhisattva, chant this Sutra, or [perform] any practice described in
this Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Fundamental Vow Sutra. You must use your divine
power to protect and assist these people. Do not let any disaster or unfortunate
event to come within their earshot, much less experiencing it themselves. You will
not be alone in protecting them. The subordinates of Devarajas, Sakra, and Great
Brahma shall protect them as well. Why are these people protected by so many
holy, virtuous beings? [This benefit is] the result of paying homage to Ksitigarbha
At that time, the World Honored One radiated trillions rays of light (all as pure and
exquisite as the Buddha's White Curl-Mark light) from the Ushnisha (Crown
Protrusion symbolizing Supreme Wisdom). Among these were the light of the
white ray, great white ray, auspicious ray, great auspicious ray, jade ray, great jade
ray, purple ray, great purple ray, indigo ray, great indigo ray, blue ray, great blue
ray, red ray, great red ray, green ray, great green ray, golden ray, great golden ray,
celebratory cloud (five colors) ray, great celebratory cloud ray, thousand chakras
ray, great thousand chakras ray, jewel chakra ray, great jewel chakra ray, solar disc
ray, great solar disc ray, lunar disc ray, great lunar disc ray, palace ray, great palace
ray, sea cloud (all encompassing) ray, and great sea cloud ray.
After radiating all these light rays, the Buddha proclaimed in wondrous voice to all
those assembled, the eight classes of supernatural beings, men, and ghosts, saying,
"Today, in Trayastrimsas Palace, hear my praise of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva for
benefiting sentient beings in the human and heavenly realms through expedient
means, for all of his inconceivableness (divine power, wisdom, etc), for [guiding
sentient beings to] become enlightened, for [guiding sentient beings to] attain the
Tenth Level of Bodhisattvahood, for [those who follow the Mahasattva's teaching]
shall never regress from Anuttara-Samyak-Sambodhi (the Supreme Wisdom).
"I have [long] heard the World Honored One and the countless Buddhas of the Ten
Directions together all praising Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, saying, 'Even all of the
Buddhas of the Three Times cannot express all of his merits.' Just now the World
Honored One has announced [again] to all present that you desire to praise and
proclaim the benefits provided by Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. For the sake of all of
the present and future sentient beings, I wish the World Honored One would praise
and proclaim Ksitigarbha's inconceivableness leading, the eight classes of
supernatural beings to pay homage and receive blessings."
The Buddha said to Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, "You have great affinity with
[the sentient beings in] the Saha World. If the eight classes of supernatural beings,
men, women, ghosts, including the suffering beings in the six realms, hear your
name, see your images, admire you and praise you, they will not regress from the
path to Enlightenment and shall often be born in the human or heavenly realms to
receive blessings. When they are nearing the fruition [of achieving
Enlightenment], they shall encounter Buddhas and receive predictions for
becoming future Buddhas themselves."
"You have great compassion and pity for sentient beings and the eight classes of
supernatural beings. Listen closely to my pronouncement of the great benefits
which can be gained from worshipping Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva." Avalokiteshvara
replied, "I am glad to receive your teaching, World Honored One."
"If these dying people's karmic retributions are such that they were only to be
extremely ill, then by the merits of the offerings made on their behalf, they would
be cured quickly and have their life spans extended. If these people's karmic
retributions are such that they are to die, then by the merits of the offerings made
on their behalf, they shall be reborn into heaven and enjoy blessings. All of the
sins and negative karma which would cause them to fall into realms of suffering
shall be extinguished."
"If these people can further devotedly pay homage to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva's
images and devotedly chant Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva's name ten thousand times
within twenty one days, then Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva will manifest his
immeasurable body to tell them where their deceased loved ones have been reborn,
or manifest his great divine power in their dreams and personally lead them to see
their loved ones in the various worlds."
"If they can further [devotedly] chant the Bodhisattva's name one thousand times
per day for one thousand days, then Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva shall send the local
earth deities to protect them for the rest of their lives. For their present lives, they
shall have abundance of clothing and food. They will not suffer from serious
illnesses, nor will accidents occur near their homes. Hence, they certainly will not
"Furthermore, Avalokiteshvara, in the future, there may be people who do not have
enough to eat or cloth themselves, who have their hopes dashed, who suffer from
many illnesses, who encounter many unfortunate situations causing their homes
not to be at peace and their loved ones dispersed, or who suffer bodily harm from
many accidents and often suffer from fright in their sleep and dreams. If such
people hear Ksitigarbha's name and see his images, they should devotedly chant
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva's name ten thousands times. Then, the unfortunate
situation faced by these people will be gradually eliminated and they shall attain
happiness. They shall have abundance of food and clothing, even enjoying
tranquility in both sleep and dreams."
The Buddha told Avalokiteshvara, "Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva has great affinity with
[the sentient beings of] Jambudvipa. To state all the ways that sentient beings can
benefit from seeing his images, hearing his name, and worshipping him, it cannot
be completed even after hundreds of thousands of kalpas. Hence, Avalokiteshvara,
you should use your divine power to circulate this Sutra, enabling sentient beings
in the Saha World to receive blessings for tens of billions of kalpas."
Boundless benefits generated for those in the realm of deva and man
It is Mahasattva's inconceivableness
Protected by gods and ghosts, and abundance of clothing and food obtained
One shall ultimately achieve Buddhahood and surpass cycle of life and death
Ksitigarbha Sutra Page 58
Hence, Avalokiteshvara, you should know
At that time, the World Honored One raised his golden colored arm and again
touched Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva-Mahasattva's head. The Buddha then said,
"Ksitigarbha, Ksitigarbha, your divine power is [so mighty it is] unthinkable. Your
compassion is [so great that it is] incomprehensible. Your wisdom is [so profound
that it is] unimaginable. Your eloquent speech [is so excellent that it is]
inconceivable. Even if all of the Buddhas of the Ten Directions praise and
expound your inconceivable qualities, we cannot fully describe them in millions of
kalpas. Ksitigarbha, Ksitigarbha, remember that today in this gathering at
Trayastrimsas Palace and before all of the inexpressible trillions of Buddhas,
Bodhisattvas, eight classes of supernatural beings, I again entrust in your care all of
the devas, humans and other sentient beings. These sentient beings who have not
yet broken away from the Trailokya are like children trapped in a burning house.
Do not let them fall into the suffering realms for even one day and night, not to
mention Avici Hell, from which they will not be able to leave even after trillions of
kalpas."
"Ksitigarbha, the sentient beings in Jambudvipa have capricious wills and natures.
The majority of them have evil tendencies. Even if they resolve to be virtuous, it
does not take long for them to regress back to their old ways. If they encounter
evil influences, their wickedness increases with each additional thought. Because
of this, I had manifested trillions of emanations to deliver them in accordance to
their [different] temperaments."
"Ksitigarbha, today I earnestly entrust in your care all of the devas, humans and
other sentient beings. In the future, if there are devas, virtuous men or virtuous
women who plant some virtuous roots in the Buddha-dharma, even if these roots
are as small as a strand of hair, a speck of dust, a pebble of sand, or even a droplet
of water, you must use your Dharma power to support these beings; thus, they will
Ksitigarbha Sutra Page 59
gradually cultivate the Supreme Bodhi. Do not let them regress [from the path to
Enlightenment]."
"Moreover, Ksitigarbha, in the future, the karmic retributions of devas or men may
cause them to fall into the suffering realms. Some may be on the verge of falling
or have already fallen into these realms. If these beings recite the name of [just]
one Buddha or Bodhisattva, or recite [just] a stanza or a phrase from a Mahayana
Sutra, use your divine power to facilitate their expeditious rescue. Manifest your
immeasurable body and deliver them from hells. Enable them to be reborn in
heaven to enjoy great blessings."
At that time, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva-Mahasattva knelt down on one knee with his
palms joined and said to the Buddha, "World Honored One, do not have any
concern. In the future, if virtuous men or women have just one thought of respect
for the Buddha-dharma, I shall use hundreds of thousands of expedient means to
rescue them, so they shall quickly find deliverance from the cycle of life and death.
The benefits will be greater for those who, with every thought, diligently cultivate
after learning various virtuous practices. These people naturally will not regress
from the supreme path of Enlightenment."
9. Respected by People
12. Those who are reborn as female will be daughters of high-ranking officials
16. Born with great wisdom and have detailed memories of previous lives
23. Deceased relatives [who had fallen into suffering shall] leave suffering
[realms]
At that time, after hearing Shakyamuni Buddha praising and expounding all of
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva's unimaginable Divine Powers [and the inconceivable vow