Sukyo Mahikari Courses
Sukyo Mahikari holds three-day courses at its centres (dojo) throughout the world for people wishing to practise the art of True Light. These courses are open to anyone over the age of ten (minors need parental consent).
In the three-day course, one learns about the universal principles that govern the divine world, the world of divine spirits, the astral world, and the physical world. In addition, one learns about the influence that the unseen spiritual realms have on life in the physical world, and vice versa.
Upon completion of the course, a person becomes a member of Sukyo Mahikari and receives a sacred pendant (Omitama) that enables one to practise the art of True Light. In the spiritual practice of the art of True Light, the Light of God is transmitted from the palm of the hand to purify and revitalise the spirit, mind and body.
As people practise the art of True Light and accumulate spiritual experiences, they can progress to the intermediate and advanced courses where they study more about universal principles, the unseen spiritual world and God’s plan for humankind.
Financial obligations of members
For all its activities, the organisation is supported by voluntary donations from members and non-members. It is entirely at the discretion of each person to decide whether or not to make a donation, and how much. In keeping with the laws of each country, national organisations may also be supported by membership fees.
Sukyo Mahikari Centres
Local and national Sukyo Mahikari centres are places for spiritual training. It is at these centres that the three-day spiritual development courses for new members are held. Anyone can visit the local and national centres to pray, to receive Light, to learn more about the spiritual and practical aspects of the art of True Light, the teachings and to participate in ceremonies.
In general, a first-time visitor to a centre will receive an explanation about the art of True Light. It is emphasised that the art of True Light is not a healing art, but a spiritual practice to purify and nurture the spirit, mind and body.
Daily Practices
In addition to practising the art of True Light, Sukyo Mahikari encourages people to practise three virtues: gratitude, humility and acceptance of the will of God. It also encourages people to pray, to cultivate a more positive attitude, to do their best to promote harmony in their families, and to help others.
Initiatives for the betterment of the environment and nature are also encouraged, such as avoiding waste, recycling, respecting and working with nature, for example.
These practices are important because they can help people to develop a deep sense of compassion, love and care for others, thus enabling them to make a positive contribution to society and the world as a whole.
By participating in these basic practices, members can revitalise their spirit, mind and body, and make gradual steps towards elevating themselves spiritually.
Leaving the organisation
Members are free to stop practising the art of True Light and to leave Sukyo Mahikari at any time.
Ceremonies
Monthly ceremonies are opportunities for members and guests to unite in prayer and to harmonise with the will of God. Members and guests express their gratitude to God for all the blessings that they receive each day and pray that it will be possible for people to establish a peaceful and harmonious civilisation on earth.
Publications
At present, there are only a few official publications about Sukyo Mahikari translated from Japanese. These publications include Holy Words (Goseigen), a collection of revelations received by Mr Kōtama Okada (the first spiritual leader), the Yokoshi Prayer Book (Norigotoshu), several collections of teachings by Mr Kōtama Okada and Ms Keishu Okada (the second spiritual leader), and books by Mr Kōō Okada (the third spiritual leader). In addition, there is the monthly Sukyo Mahikari International Journal.
There are also some introductory books to Sukyo Mahikari. The contents and opinions expressed in these books are the responsibility of the authors.