Ksitigarbha dharma has many followers in mainland China, Taiwan and Japan. However, discussions on the topic in academic circles are quite rare. Holy Virtue and Dharma of Ksitigarbha, written by Master Yin Shun in 1963, is a rare and precious piece of literature in this aspect. Apart from discussions about general folk belief of Ksitigarbha, high regard for Master Ming Oou-yi (蕅益大師), Venerable Hong Yi (弘一大師) and other masters of great virtue, and debate over the relationship between Ksitigarbha dharma and Ksitigarbha of Mount Jiuhua (九華山), his interpretation of Ksitigarbha dharma illustrates the virtue embedded in Ksitigarbha's name and his unique virtues from the perspective of the benefit for all beings. He also analyzes his edification for benefiting all beings by saving lives, and explains how this dharma saves those who are about to fall into or have indeed already fallen into hell, and highlights the benefit for both the living and the dead. In a manner of speaking, Master Yin Shun's interpretation is quite pragmatic. His analysis of earthly character, the spirit of benefit of all beings is refreshing.
