Material: Bronze, Cast

Dimensions: 22.5cm

Description:

The status of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva in Tibetan Buddhism, his mount, and its related influence and usage are complex themes that intersect Buddhist texts, legends, and cultural practices. The following is a detailed description:

1. **Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva's Status in Tibetan Buddhism**

Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva (Sanskrit: Kṣitigarbha, Tibetan: Sayi Nyingpo, meaning "Earth Treasure") is considered a prominent bodhisattva in Tibetan Buddhism, although his status and influence differ slightly from those in Chinese Buddhism (particularly in China and Japan). In Tibetan Buddhism, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva is primarily known for saving sentient beings, particularly those in hell, embodying the Mahayana spirit of compassion and altruism. His primary vow, "I will not attain Buddhahood until all hell is empty," is also revered in Tibetan Buddhism.

In the Tantric tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva is often included in a hierarchy of deities or guardian deities, composing a force for the salvation of sentient beings alongside other bodhisattvas (such as Avalokitesvara and Manjushri). His imagery in Tibetan Buddhism is sometimes associated with certain wrathful deities in Tantric Buddhism (such as Mahākāla or Vajrapāṇi), emphasizing his role in protecting the Dharma and subduing negative karma. While Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva does not hold the overwhelming dominance of Avalokitesvara or Manjushri in Tibetan Buddhism, he still plays a significant role in certain practices and rituals, particularly those related to the hell realms and the salvation of the dead.

2. Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva's Mount

In Tibetan Buddhist iconography, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva's mount is not as clearly defined or common as that of other deities (such as the lion depicted by Manjushri or the elephant depicted by Samantabhadra). In Tibetan Buddhism, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva is often depicted standing or seated, typically holding a staff (symbolizing salvation) and a Mani jewel (symbolizing wisdom and vows). Depictions of mounts are rarely seen in classic texts or thangka art.

However, in certain traditions or local practices, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva is occasionally depicted riding a blue or white lion, similar to the mounts of other Tibetan bodhisattvas, such as Manjushri. The blue lion symbolizes bravery and wisdom, capable of expelling evil spirits and protecting the Dharma. This imagery may have been influenced by Chinese Buddhism or Indian Buddhism, where Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva is sometimes associated with a mythical beast called Diting. Diting is a mythical creature said to be able to distinguish between good and evil, hear the voices of sentient beings, and aid Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva in saving sentient beings.

In Tibetan Buddhism, when Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva is given a mount, its symbolic meaning often echoes his aspiration to liberate beings in hell, emphasizing his ability to traverse the six realms, particularly the hell realm. The imagery of the mount may vary within different sects (e.g., Nyingma, Gelug) or local traditions.

3. **The Influence of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva in Tibetan Buddhism**

Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva's influence in Tibetan Buddhism is primarily manifested in the following areas:

- **Liberation of the Dead and Hell-Bearers**: Tibetan Buddhism contains numerous rituals related to liberating the dead, such as the Bardo Thodol (commonly known as the Tibetan Book of the Dead). Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva's compassionate aspirations make him a key deity in liberation ceremonies, particularly in helping the deceased escape the sufferings of the lower realms or hell.

- **Tantric Practice**: In certain Tantric practices, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva is considered a Dharma protector or main deity, particularly in methods related to eliminating karmic obstacles and purifying sinful karma. His image may appear in thangkas, mandalas, or offering mandalas, worshipped alongside other bodhisattvas or guardian deities.

- **Cultural Integration**: Due to exchanges between Tibetan Buddhism and Chinese Buddhism, the image and story of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva have had a profound influence in some Tibetan areas bordering the Han and Tibetan regions (such as Sichuan and Gansu). For example, in temples in these regions, statues or portraits of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva often incorporate Chinese Buddhist styles, further enhancing their local characteristics.

4. **Origin of Usage**

The usage of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva in Tibetan Buddhism is primarily derived from the following:

- **Scriptural Basis**: The practice of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva is primarily based on Mahayana Buddhist texts, such as the Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Original Vow Sutra (although this sutra is less popular in Tibetan Buddhism than in Chinese Buddhism). Furthermore, certain Tibetan Buddhist tantras (such as the Mahavairocana Sutra and related tantric texts) also mention practices related to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. - **Tantric Ritual**: In the Tantric tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, the practice of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva may involve specific visualizations, mantra offerings, or mantra recitation. His mantra (such as "Om Hahaha Pisamādhi Soha") is used in certain ceremonies for the deceased's souls to be liberated from the hell realms.

- **Local Legends and Practices**: In some Tibetan traditions, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva is viewed as the savior of the hell realms. This practice, combined with Tibetan Buddhist teachings on the bardo, helps deceased souls achieve liberation during the bardo stage after death. This practice may have been influenced by Chinese Buddhism, particularly in areas where Tibetan and Chinese cultures intermingle.

- **Art and Symbolism**: In Tibetan Buddhist thangkas and sculptures, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva is typically depicted in a compassionate form, holding a staff and a jewel, occasionally accompanied by a mount or a listening ear. His image is used in temple offerings, prayers, and ceremonies for the deceased's souls to be liberated.

5. **Summary**

In Tibetan Buddhism, while Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva does not hold the same central position as Guanyin or Manjushri, his vow to liberate beings in hell occupies a crucial position in practices such as salvation and purification of karma. His mount (if any) is typically a blue or white lion, symbolizing courage and wisdom, echoing his mission to liberate the six realms. Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva's use stems from the fusion of Mahayana Buddhist texts, Tantric rituals, and Tibetan and Han Chinese cultures, and has had a profound influence, particularly in the practice of liberating the souls of the deceased and beings in hell.

Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva / Mount . Bronze