Kshitigarbha Bodhisattva

The Kshitigarbha Sutra tells of his past lives as a Brahmin woman and a girl named Bright Eyes, who vowed to save all beings to rescue their mothers from hell. Another legend identifies him with Kim Gyo-gak, a Silla prince who became a monk on Mount Jiuhua in China; his uncorrupted body after death led to the belief he was Kshitigarbha's manifestation.

Kshitigarbha worship in Taiwan centers on funeral rites, ancestral salvation, and protection of the deceased. Devotees recite the "Kshitigarbha Sutra" (Di Zang Jing) to transfer merit to deceased relatives, helping them escape the suffering of the underworld. Offerings include incense, candles, and vegetarian food. During Ghost Month, Kshitigarbha temples hold extended sutra recitation sessions. Devotees also pray for protection of the living, especially for travelers and those facing legal troubles. Xinzhuang Dizang An's unique "Guan Jiang Shou" tradition has become an iconic element of Taiwanese temple culture.

Kshitigarbha's birthday on the 30th day of the 7th lunar month (the last day of Ghost Month) is the main celebration. This timing is significant — as the "King of the Underworld," his birthday marks the closing of the ghost gates. Temples hold elaborate ceremonies to guide wandering spirits back to the underworld. Xinzhuang Dizang An's Ghost Month activities, including the famous "Night Patrol" by the Guan Jiang Shou troupe, are among the most dramatic religious events in northern Taiwan. Buddhist temples nationwide hold "Yulanpen" (Obon) ceremonies, combining Buddhist teachings with Taiwanese folk traditions of honoring ancestors.