The importance of kotodama
November 22nd, 2010 // 2:46 pm @ DawnMellowship
A good Reiki teacher will impart the value of kotodama to their students and ensure that their students use kotodama during healing. Kotodama refers to the Japanese belief that words hold power when spoken correctly within the proper ritual context.
In the Japanese culture names were believed to stem from divine power and speaking them in a certain way, whether for good or evil can shape ones destiny. For example, saying “Break a leg!” to wish someone good luck, would not be deemed appropriate in case the individual actually did suffer a broken leg!
In Reiki specific words (the names of the Reiki symbols) are used to invoke the correct frequency of universal energy for healing. If the kotodama is not used the energy will not be activated in the same way. It’s a bit like having a light in the house but unless you switch it on you’ll still be sitting in darkness. Kotodama is the light switch to activate the correct frequency of energy.
Whether a kotodama is spoken or expressed in another manner it can have an impact. Many religions use praying, singing and chanting, which can be considered a form of kotodama. In the Japanese Shinto tradition it is believed that masters with extensive training can actually see the beings within the spiritual realms.
In Aikido sacred sounds are extremely important. The founder used them to activate light and the flow of ki (life force energy). The founder of Reiki, Mikao Usui was friends with the founder of Aikido, so they may have shared some similar attitudes.
Category : Reiki Blog
