Jizo Bodhisattva photo, showing overall Buddha statue and exquisite details

Jizo Bodhisattva（Kṣitigarbha）

The Bodhisattva of Great Vows and Boundless Compassion
Jizo Bodhisattva portrait image, showing compassionate and solemn appearance with exquisite details

Who is Jizo Bodhisattva？

Jizo Bodhisattva (Sanskrit: Kṣitigarbha, meaning “Earth Treasury”; Tibetan: ས་ཡི་སྙིང་པོ་, Sa-yi Nyingpo; Japanese: 地蔵菩薩, Jizō Bosatsu) is one of the most beloved bodhisattvas in Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism. Renowned for his great vow not to attain Buddhahood until all beings in the hell realms are liberated, Kṣitigarbha embodies infinite compassion, courage, and perseverance. He guides souls through darkness, relieves suffering, and protects travelers, children, and those in peril.

Jizo Bodhisattva hand-painted Thangka image, showing exquisite hand-painted details and traditional artistic style

Symbolism and Iconography

  • Color: Often depicted in soft earth tones or golden hues, representing stability, nurturing, and inexhaustible merit.
  • Expression: Gentle, compassionate face symbolizing boundless empathy.
  • Attributes: — grants blessings and dispels darkness — opens the gates of hell and leads beings to safety.
  • Posture: Standing or seated calmly, embodying unwavering compassion and readiness to respond to suffering.
  • Halo of light: Illuminates the darkest realms, showing that no being is beyond hope.
Jizo Bodhisattva hand-painted Thangka art poster image, showing exquisite details and traditional artistic style

Spiritual Significance

Jizo Bodhisattva represents hope in despair and courage in hardship. He vows to descend to any realm of suffering to rescue beings and guide them to liberation. His presence encourages practitioners to cultivate empathy, make selfless vows, and face challenges with resilience and inner strength.

Jizo Bodhisattva hand-painted Thangka wall hanging image, showing full artwork and exquisite craftsmanship

When to Call Upon Jizo Bodhisattva

  • When seeking protection for loved ones, especially children and travelers.
  • When grieving or praying for the deceased.
  • When needing courage to overcome adversity and inner fears.
  • When wishing to dedicate merit to others or relieve suffering in the world.


Mantra

Sanskrit: Om Ha Ha Ha Vismaye Svaha
Tibetan (transliterated): Om Ha Ha Ha Vismaye Svaha

This mantra invokes Kṣitigarbha’s compassionate vow to dispel suffering and bring peace.

Jizo Bodhisattva in Your Life

Placing Jizo Bodhisattva image in your home or meditation space is a reminder to remain compassionate even in hardship, to dedicate your practice for the benefit of all beings, and to walk the path of selfless service.

Jizo Bodhisattva hand-painted Thangka pendant double-sided product display, showing front and back with detailed craftsmanship2
$149.00 USD $210.00 USD

“Gentle as the earth, steadfast as a vow — he guards all who wander in darkness and guides them toward the light.”