The Original Vows of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Sutra which belongs to Mahayana Buddhism is one of the mainstream sutra practices by Chinese Buddhism. Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva who vowed not to attain final enlightenment until after the hell realm is emptied. In fact, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, like Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, has already become a Buddha. Because of his deep compassion, he is portrayed as a Bodhisattva to help the beings in this Saha world.
The Sutra advocates for filial piety towards one’s parents, respecting our teachers, and do any good deeds but not any misdeeds. As the Buddha discoursed in the sutra, there are 28 great benefits from reciting this sutra, such as being protected by devas and nagas, receiving abundant food and clothing, and accumulating superior causes for holiness.
Adapted from Fo Guang Shan International Translation Center. Click to download the Original Vows of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Sutra.