Deities and Faith
What virtues do the characters in Kṣitigarbha's Chinese name express?
English translation draft · Based on the Chinese article. This is not a word-for-word translation approved by Master Shengyuan.
'Di' suggests the earth supporting all things, while 'zang' suggests a storehouse of inexhaustible treasures. These characters help explain Kṣitigarbha Bodhisattva's virtues: depth, steadiness, impartial regard for living beings, and willingness to receive their needs.
People, animals, and all things depend on earth. It does not nourish only what it likes. I use this quality to explain the Bodhisattva's impartial heart and remind myself to become more accepting and notice others' needs.
'Earth' also brings to mind the ground of our own heart. 'Storehouse' reminds us that wisdom can be held within like treasure. Drawing close to the Bodhisattva means not only hoping for help but learning these virtues, understanding life's principles, and cultivating a deeper, steadier heart.
Folk usage often adds 'King' to Kṣitigarbha Bodhisattva's Chinese title. This is an honorific, still referring to the same Bodhisattva. Understanding the name and then reading stories of vows and help for living beings makes its spirit easier to appreciate.