Tenrikyo -This universe is the body of God - Return to the Origin 

Tenri Forum 2006

Panel Discussion on Tenrikyo Spirituality

 The topic of this panel discussion is Tenrikyo Spirituality. I am interpreting that to mean the very important elements of the teaching of the Reason of Heaven that deal with pondering, understanding and conveying the truth of origin.

 As with any endeavor, it is often desirable to begin with an ideal or direct approach, “the main road” and then confront and deal with whatever obstacles may be encountered in trying to realize that ideal. It is my intention then to present some examples that come to mind as I ponder and reflect on the subject from the point of view of my reading of the instructions modeled in the primary Tenrikyo resources.

Model interactions shown in the Tip of the Writing Brush:

• The Direct Approach - "The Main Road" - Minds that wish to hear and will return to the origin.

• Problems and Obstacles - "The Narrow Path" - A Path of Hardship

  Minds that wish to hear but are currently unable to understand God's intention.. 

  	Concerning minds that wish to hear and are willing and able to follow the intention of the reason of heaven but are unable to keep the mind settled.
  	Concerning minds that wish to hear but do not as yet understand and are sincere in their efforts to attach worldly common meanings to the reason of heaven.
  	Concerning minds that have yet to hear the teachings of the reason of heaven.
  	Concerning minds that do not wish to hear the reason of heaven and are passive in their rejection of it.
  	Concerning minds that do not wish to hear the reason of heaven and would actively suppress it.

• Solutions 

  The way to overcome the obstacles

•   The Service

•   Staying Oriented on the Path

•   Unity of Mind