Thursday, May 27, 2010

Reiki Origins and Reiki Universality




Kuramayama is one of the most powerful energy places I have visited - but it is important to keep in mind that the genius and originality of Sensei Usui was not with the intention of bringing Japanese religion to the world, but rather, simple concepts of a method of compassion and healing that can be taught to almost anyone, and do not require faith or conversion.

Sensei Usui from his own origins struck notes of universality. In this regard it is important to view another site in Japan, rarely discussed in Reiki circles, which is Meiji Jingu, a shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.

Sensei Usui was moved by the Emperor and Empress, and exhorted students to read from the Emperor's poetry. The Five Basic principles of Reiki are attributed to lessons from the Emperor. Who were these persons?

The Meiji emperor ended centuries of Shogun rule in Japan, and supported the opening of Japan to the western world. Cultural ties were established, especially with France. The Emperor made a point it is taught of leading his people by changing to Western dress and eating western food. He is quoted as wanting to share the best of cultures and bring peoples together.

Here is an example of "waka" poetry by Empress Shoken:
"By self-reflection
And questioning our own hearts
We should then perceive
The proper path to pursue
And nothing would confuse us."

The brochure to this immense wooded park, with ponds and gardens, says simply: "Meiji Jingu is a Shinto shrine. Shinto is called Japan's ancient original religion, and it is deeply rooted in the way of Japanese life. Shinto has no founder, no holy book, and not even the concept of religious conversion, but Shinto values for example harmony with nature."

The principle value which the Japanese attribute to the memory of these beloved leaders is "Magokoro" or "Sincere Heart."

The concept of a Good or Sincere Heart is central to Judaeo-Christian and Islamic thought, and in indigenous peoples throughout the world.

So when Mikao Usui descended from Kuramayama, what is most important is not the powerful and magnificent energy of the mountain, or the specific culture that he arose from, but the effort to reach beyond himself, and beyond his own culture, to offer relief of suffering to human kind.

In Hospice and Long Term Care, having a sincere heart is as important as having clinical skill. For those who work in Hospice, and for those practicing Reiki, energy is sent to you from Japan, in the hope that whatever your own background or lineage, you will see commonality in the human condition, and in the attempt to bring compassion to the world.

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