Jizo Bodhisattva: The Bodhisattva of the Earth Store
Introduction Jizo Bodhisattva is one of the most popular and beloved figures in Buddhism, revered for his deep compassion and commitment to helping all beings achieve enlightenment. Also known as the Bodhisattva of the Earth Store, he is revered in many East Asian countries, particularly China and Japan. Jizo is often depicted as a young monk with a shaven head, draped in robes, holding a staff with six rings that symbolize the six realms of existence. Explanation of Jizo Bodhisattva and his significance in Buddhism At its core, Buddhism teaches that all living beings are fundamentally interconnected and interdependent. While everyone has the potential to achieve enlightenment, it’s an arduous process that can take many lifetimes to complete. In this context, bodhisattvas are beings who have attained enlightenment or near-enlightenment but have chosen to remain on earth to help others attain liberation from suffering. Jizo Bodhisattva is especially known for