This is an easy-to-read, colloquial translation of "The Sutra of Ksitigarbha's Fundamental Vows", an ancient 7th century Buddhist sutra that is most relevant to a chaotic time like now and to distressed people like us in this troubled world. "Ksitigarbha" means "Earth Treasury" and reflects the hidden treasures in the minds and hearts of all of us sentient beings. Through His great kindness and mercy, before the Buddha went into nirvana, He entrusted us to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Mahasattva as the sole rescuer for this earth and this era.

This important sutra discusses the causes-and-consequences and do's-and-don'ts in our lives. Also included are caring prayers and helpful endnotes, glossary as well as a study guide to understand the sutra teachings deeper. In this revised edition, most updates are in the endnotes and glossary, including more information about Sanskrit words. A few updates in the sutra were intended to reflect closer to the Chinese version in hopes that the dharma can be better received.

May this sutra bring you peace, calm as well as inspiration!

[October 2022 Revised Edition. Typeset in EB Garamond, 12.5pt]