Lesson 10

Does hell really exist—or is it only a religious idea created to frighten people? In Lesson 10 of the Ksitigarbha Sutra, Khenpo Sodargye examines why many modern people find the concept of hell difficult to accept. Historical misuse of religious fear, modern education, and confidence in what can be physically observed have all shaped this skepticism.

But does something cease to exist simply because our eyes cannot perceive it?

Khenpo explains that human senses reveal only a limited part of reality. Just as ultraviolet light, infrared radiation, electromagnetic waves, and many other phenomena cannot be seen directly, the limits of ordinary perception cannot determine everything that exists.

The teaching then enters Chapter Five, “The Names of the Hells.” Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva describes the different forms of suffering that arise through sentient beings’ karma. Khenpo also highlights the dangers of killing, constant conflict, anger, and hatred—and why transforming the mind is essential before these habits create deeper suffering.