Golden Light Sutra

The Golden Light Sutra, originating in Sanskrit and translated into Chinese and Tibetan, holds significant influence in East Asia. Its pivotal chapter, "The Confession of the Golden Drum," symbolizes the teachings of Gautama Buddha through a radiant golden drum. Emphasizing the protection of rulers by the Four Heavenly Kings, it also highlights vows by goddesses to safeguard those who propagate its teachings. The sutra stresses leadership ethics, foretelling calamity without justice and prosperity with virtuous governance. Rituals based on the sutra, like "Zhāitiān," were integral in ancient China, reinforcing its role in state protection and Buddhist tradition.