Sukyo Mahikari
Sukyo Mahikari is a Japanese new religion, also known as a shinshūkyō, that emerged from the Mahikari movement. Its stated mission is to foster global peace and individual happiness through the practice of universal principles and a spiritual purification technique called the "art of True Light." The organization has established centers in over 100 countries and reported approximately one million practitioners in 2013.
Key Facts
- ›Founded as part of the Mahikari movement, with its origins tracing back to Kōtama Okada's L. H. Yokoshi no Tomo Association in 1959.
- ›Sukyo Mahikari was established in 1978 by Keishu Okada, following a leadership dispute after the death of Kōtama Okada.
- ›The core practice involves radiating spiritual energy through the palm of the hand, known as the "art of True Light," to purify the spirit, mind, and body.
- ›The organization promotes universal principles such as gratitude, humility, and altruistic love as essential for spiritual and personal growth.
- ›Its headquarters and main shrine, the World Shrine (Motosu Hikari Ōkamu no Miya), are located in Takayama City, Japan.
- ›Sukyo Mahikari has been described as a cult, with concerns raised about the incorporation of elements from the "Protocols of the Elders of Zion" and the reliance on spiritual healing over medical treatment.
Universal Principles True Light
Mahikari Movement, Japanese New Religion
- Promotes Universal Principles For Societal Peace and Individual Happiness.
- Encourages Respect For Nature and Sustainable Practices, Including Yoko Agriculture.
- Engages In Global Charity and Social Services, Including Environmental Cleanup and Reforestation Efforts.
- Co-Sponsored the Un Millennium Summit of World Religious Leaders.
KōTama Okada, Keishu Okada, Kōō Okada
About Sukyo Mahikari
Sukyo Mahikari, meaning "Universal Principles True Light," is a prominent Japanese new religion that emerged from the Mahikari movement. Established in 1978 by Keishu Okada, it traces its spiritual lineage to Kōtama Okada, the founder of the original Mahikari organization. The organization's primary objective is to foster global peace and individual happiness by promoting the practice of universal principles and a unique spiritual purification method known as the "art of True Light."
Core Practices and Beliefs
The central practice of Sukyo Mahikari is the "art of True Light," which involves transmitting spiritual energy from the palm of the hand to purify the spirit, mind, and body. This practice is believed to help individuals resolve problems and attain greater well-being. Alongside this, members are encouraged to live by universal principles such as gratitude, humility, and altruistic love, cultivating positive attitudes and promoting harmony in their daily lives.
The organization also advocates for yoko agriculture, an organic farming method combined with positive affirmations, aimed at restoring soil fertility and fostering respect for nature. Sukyo Mahikari emphasizes that the "art of True Light" is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment but rather as a means of spiritual service and attaining divine nature.
Organization and Global Reach
The headquarters of Sukyo Mahikari is located in Takayama City, Japan, where its main shrine, the World Shrine (Motosu Hikari Ōkamu no Miya), is situated. The organization has a significant global presence, with established regional headquarters and centers in over 100 countries, reflecting its commitment to spiritual unity across diverse ethnicities and nationalities. In 2013, Sukyo Mahikari reported a membership of approximately one million practitioners worldwide.
Reception and Activities
Sukyo Mahikari members are actively involved in various social and charitable initiatives globally, including environmental cleanup, reforestation projects, and support for children and the elderly. The organization has received commendations for its community service and environmental efforts, and has been granted special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the United Nations. Despite its community engagement, Sukyo Mahikari has also faced scrutiny and is viewed by some as a cult, with concerns raised regarding its doctrines and the emphasis on spiritual healing.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sukyo Mahikari?
Sukyo Mahikari is a Japanese new religion that aims to promote peace and happiness globally. It teaches universal principles and a practice called the "art of True Light" for spiritual purification.
What is the "art of True Light"?
The "art of True Light" is a spiritual purification practice central to Sukyo Mahikari. It involves transmitting light energy from the palm of the hand to cleanse the spirit, mind, and body, believed to help resolve problems and foster well-being.
Where is Sukyo Mahikari headquartered?
The headquarters of Sukyo Mahikari is located in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture, Japan. The main shrine there is known as the World Shrine or Motosu Hikari Ōkamu no Miya.
How did Sukyo Mahikari originate?
Sukyo Mahikari originated from the Mahikari movement, founded by Kōtama Okada. It was established as a separate organization in 1978 by Keishu Okada after a dispute over leadership succession.
What are the main beliefs of Sukyo Mahikari?
Sukyo Mahikari's beliefs center on practicing universal principles like gratitude and humility, and engaging in the "art of True Light." They aim for spiritual growth, societal harmony, and a sustainable future.
Does Sukyo Mahikari advocate for replacing medical treatment?
Sukyo Mahikari does not advocate for the "art of True Light" as a substitute for medical treatment or therapy. Its purpose is described as serving society, bringing happiness, and attaining divine nature, rather than healing illness.
How is Sukyo Mahikari financed?
The organization is sustained by voluntary contributions, referred to as offerings, made by its members. Emphasis is placed on making offerings with sincerity rather than a specific amount, although there are set amounts for introductory courses and spiritual cord maintenance.
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