Blessings for All Beings with Jizo

A blessing is whatever reminds us of the sacred loving presence that shines through all of us. ~ Tara Brach

Dear ones,

This week I feel called to offer an update to my previous blessing post. I feel continually moved and troubled by all that is arising in the world including the social, racial, and economic injustices alongside the growing signs of environmental crisis including the wildfires in the Western United States as well as globally.

I am holding all of us including the earth in my practice… all that aches, all that weeps, all that is weary, all that grieves, all that is enraged, all that is terrified, all that feels alone, all that feels helpless… all the fire, water, air, and earth elements within and all around us where there is balance and imbalance… all the injustices, all the brutality, all the losses…the ten thousand joys and the ten thousand sorrows. 

May all of it be held and taken care of in this moment. May all of you be held and taken care of in this moment.

I’m calling in the presence of Jizo, the Japanese name of a bodhisattva in East Asian Mahayana Buddhism. A bodhisattva is an awakened being who dedicates their life to the liberation of all beings.

Jizo is said to be profoundly optimistic, courageous, and gentle offering their presence to any place, situation, or being in need of help. Jizo offers support and protection for all beings, those that are well, those that are vulnerable, those in transition between life and death as well as those in the hell realms. Jizo is said to carry a light that banishes all fear.

May the presence of Jizo accompany all of those who need it, offering them safety, hope, and ease.

The Jizo Dharani is the chant “Om Ka Ka Kabi San Ma E Sowa Ka” which invokes Jizo’s presence and can help to dispel distressing thoughts or energy and offer well-being and protection.

Jizo’s name in Sanskrit, the ancient Indian language, is Ksitigarbha which translates to the womb of the earth. Consider listening to the chant, perhaps you may be called to chant or hum along, and to imagine Jizo caring and protecting us all including the earth.

Notice where this practice evokes settling and letting go in the body and conversely where tension or constriction remain, allowing and offering support where it is needed. Lie down, sob, hydrate, move, write, be with loved ones, and explore the idea of calling in your guides whenever you need their support.

May we be safe. May we be held. May we be loved. May we remember that we are the earth. We are the earth and it’s time for change.

With love,

—Lissa E.