Join us for an afternoon of practice with Jizo Bodhisattva. Jizo is considered the protector of the Earth and all beings who come from the Earth, their name translates as Earth Womb or Earth Treasure-Store. 

In the Buddhist tradition a Bodhisattva is an awakening being who makes the great vow to help guide all beings to liberation. Each Bodhisattva embodies certain qualities. Jizo’s qualities are benevolence, fearlessness, great determination and great vow. Jizo is said specifically to guide travelers, those in transition or at a crossroads. 

Whether you are traversing the spiritual path, in a major life transition, experiencing loss or facing the unknown—Jizo can help us clarify the heart’s aspiration and find courage as we walk into the mystery of this life.

Jizo’s energy is important at this time on the planet where the Earth is facing climate instability and many of our world systems are in transition. Jizo can be a guide in our lives as we face uncertainty, reminding us of the refuge of the dharma and our own aspirations for awakening.

The afternoon will include meditation on Jizo’s qualities, a dharma talk on Jizo Bodhisattva, Jizo mantra chanting, the creative practice of painting Jizo rocks and the Jizo Earth Protector Ceremony. 

Snacks will be available after the dharma talk and throughout. Feel free to come to all or part of the festival. See the schedule below for event times. We will practice in mindful silence, unless chanting or engaged in dharma discussion.

Approximate Schedule:

1P – Seated meditation/indoor walking meditation

2P – Dharma talk/discussion

3P – Outdoor walking meditation

3:30P – Jizo mantra chanting

4:30P – Jizo art and rock painting

5:30P – Jizo Earth Protector Ceremony

6P – Clean-up and good-byes