Tenrikyo Kokka Church

In 1838, in a small village nestled in Nara Prefecture, a woman named Nakayama Miki embarked on a spiritual journey that would forever alter the religious landscape of Japan. This journey culminated in the founding of Tenrikyo, and right here, before the Tenrikyo Kokka Church, we can almost feel the echoes of her profound experience. Tenrikyo, a relatively new religion in Japan, centers around the belief in Tenri-O-no-Mikoto, God the Parent. The followers of Tenrikyo believe that Nakayama Miki, known affectionately as Oyasama, became the Shrine of God, chosen to reveal the divine path to a Joyous Life. Tenrikyo Kokka Church stands as a testament to her teachings and the global reach of her message. Oyasama’s teachings emphasize the importance of living a joyous life filled with charity and devoid of negativity. Greed, hatred, anger, these are not viewed as sins within Tenrikyo, but rather as dust that clouds the mind. This dust, followers believe, can be swept away through acts of selfless service known as hinokishin and through prayer. At the heart of Tenrikyo’s beliefs is the concept of kashimono-karimono, “a thing lent, a thing borrowed,” referring to the human body. While our minds are our own to control, Tenrikyo followers believe that our bodies are gifts, entrusted to us by God the Parent. This belief underscores a deep connection to the divine and a sense of responsibility for how we care for ourselves and others. Tenri-O-no-Mikoto, the singular God of Tenrikyo, created the universe and humanity with the intent that we experience joy. The concept of innen, or causality, in Tenrikyo mirrors karmic beliefs but with a distinct twist. Suffering, adherents believe, isn’t punishment but rather encouragement from God the Parent, prompting reflection and a change of heart. This is where the concept of tanno, or joyous acceptance, comes into play. It’s not passive resignation, but rather an active acknowledgment of God’s love in all circumstances, inspiring an even stronger resolve to live joyously. Tenrikyo Kokka Church, as part of the broader Tenrikyo network, provides a space for followers to practice these principles, to engage in hinokishin, and to share in the joy of community. Tenrikyo Kokka Church serves as a beacon of Oyasama’s vision, reminding us of the power of the human spirit and the enduring quest for a Joyous Life. It’s a journey not just of faith, but of self-discovery and service to others, a journey reflected in the vibrant spirit of this church.