A colloquial, easy-to-understand English translation, this sutra gives simple, direct instructions about how we sentient beings in this chaotic, troubled and distressed era and world can make close, direct connections with a great enlightened being – Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Mahasattva – to be saved, protected, guided and blessed. The Buddha foresaw the suffering and chaos in this Dharma-Declining Period that we are now living in and thus entrusted us to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva.

“Ksitigarbha” is a Sanskrit word meaning “earth treasury”, reflecting the hidden treasures in the minds of all sentient beings, and Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva’s specialty and merit is His “power of vow” – He vowed not to become a Buddha until all beings, including those in hell, are rescued.

The narrator, Paul, is an inmate who was under maximum security incarceration. He has been rescued by the Three Jewels and Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva multiple times when faced with distress, troubles in mind, critical illness and life-death issues. We are moved by his serious, persistent vows to change himself and cultivate inwardly according to the Buddha and Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva’s teachings. These experiences have helped and inspired us and many Buddhist practitioners all over.

This unprecedented project would not have been possible without the gracious, generous support of the state corrections department as well as the superintendent, officers, guards and staff of the corrections center. Due to the limitations of the recording circumstances and the narrator’s health, there are a few places where the audio does not exactly reflect the printed version, there may be background noise or the voice may sound different at times.

As Mahayana Buddhists, we are most grateful to have the chance to present this recording to share with you all. From our experience, reading/copying this sutra helps to obtain calm, peace and inspiration; may your listening to it also bring the same.

Siksananda