Several natural disasters struck during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, including floods, earthquakes, fires, and locust swarms. All of these disasters have caused many problems and brought suffering to people throughout the world. We all wish to do whatever we can to put an end to these disasters as soon as possible, and we long to create a better future. In terms of stopping disasters and fulfilling wishes, it is stated by the compassionate Buddha Shakyamuni that praying for just one moment to Kishtigharba Bodhisattva is more effective than praying to other great bodhisattvas for many eons. Therefore, it is extremely beneficial for us to learn the Original Vows of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Sutra in order to develop a strong devotion towards Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva—the wish-fulfilling jewel. Devotion to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva can accomplish all of our goals; those as noble as reaching the highest attainment of buddhahood or taking rebirth in the western pure realm of Sukhavati, and those as ordinary as gaining bountiful food and sustenance, good fortune, renown, and the fulfillment of wishes.
