What is Konko?

The Konko Faith…

• • Konko translates to "Golden Light." The Konko crest represents this radiant light emanating in all eight directions, symbolizing Kami-Sama's indiscriminate blessings. These blessings are bestowed upon everyone unconditionally.

  • Through faith practice, we can cultivate happiness and gratitude deep within our hearts.

  • Understanding "The Force" in Star Wars can help grasp the concept of The Life Force/Kami-Sama in Konkokyo, as they share similar descriptions.

  • Founded by Ikigami Konko Daijin in 1859 in Okayama Prefecture, Japan, Konkokyo is not a cult.

  • Our founder, Konko Daijin, was born on September 29, 1814, and passed away on October 10, 1883, at the age of 70.

  • While rooted in Shintoism, Konkokyo's doctrines are original and independent.

  • The teachings emphasize the eternal life of the Universe.

  • Kami, or the Life Force, is energy existing in everything and every living being. It is eternal, neither created nor destroyed, and has been present since the dawn of time.

  • The energy we emit into the Universe reflects the energy we receive. Harmonizing with the Life Force is essential.

  • Kami's blessings sustain life daily through elements like air, water, food, gravity, heat, and light.

  • The faith promotes the infinite love of Tenchi Kane no Kami (The Great Life Force) that encompasses all living beings.

  • Respecting each religion's value is akin to acknowledging individual food preferences.

  • The faith guides us to recognize the Divine Will in all aspects of life, turning daily experiences into spiritual lessons.

  • It emphasizes that the Universe is our eternal home, without doctrines of "Satan, Hell, or Heaven."

  • The path to complete happiness and peace lies within our hearts.

  • Konkokyo dedicates itself to serving people worldwide.

  • Through Toritsugi Mediation (Spiritual Counseling) at each Konko Church, efforts are made to help individuals realize the teachings.

  • We hold the Earth as our Mother and the Sky (Universe) as our Father in reverence.

  • The faith's three treasures are the Sun, Moon, and Earth, essential for our existence.

  • Resources are used with respect, recognizing their sacredness and potential.

  • There are no fasting or food restrictions; all food is seen as a gift from Kami-Sama to sustain life. We consume with gratitude and respect.

  • Everyone is considered a child of Kami; no one is excluded.

  • Blessings are reflections of our sincerity. Genuine sincerity leads to significant blessings.

  • We embrace an interdependent way of life, fostering mutual appreciation in all relationships, from parents and children to employers and employees, and between Kami (Life Force) and people.

  • Challenges are seen as lessons to learn from.

  • While humans make mistakes, acknowledging and learning from them helps us grow daily.

  • Compassion is exercised by extending prayers to others, acknowledging their situations.

  • Wholehearted prayers can be offered anytime, anywhere, for anything.

  • Honoring our ancestors, the roots of our existence, is crucial for prosperity. Neglecting them is like living without roots.

  • All are born pure and innocent, embodying the heart of Kami.

  • Upon death, our body and soul part ways. The body returns to Earth, while the soul rejoins the Universe, much like evaporating water. Our spirit endures and seeks acknowledgment even after death.

  • Our faith is grounded in gratitude for everything.

  • The focus is on addressing underlying issues through daily faith practice.

For additional information:

Konkokyo Headquarters Website (In English and Japanese): KONKOKYO 

Konko Churches of North America: KCNA | Konko Churches of North America (konkofaith.org) 

Konko Missions in Hawaii: www.konkomissionshwaii.org