The Reiki Symbols

Reiki is a Japanese spiritual and therapeutic practice that uses “Qi” energy to promote health and balance. Training to learn Reiki is usually divided into three or four courses, depending on the school. In the first course, or level 1 Reiki course, the fundamentals of Reiki are taught: spiritual principles, meditation, self-healing practice, and healing practice for others. In the level 2 Reiki course, the first 3 of the 4 symbols in traditional Reiki schools are taught, known in Western Reiki schools as Chokurei, Seiheki, and Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen. It is important to mention that the third symbol, Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen, is not a symbol but a sacred Buddhist phrase written in Kanji. These symbols are fundamental in Reiki practice, as they act as tools that channel and amplify “Qi” energy. In Reiki level 3, the fourth Reiki symbol, Dai Kô Myô, is taught, which is also a phrase written in Kanji.

The first Reiki symbol, known as Chokurei in Western schools and often associated with the power of Reiki, is shrouded in mystery regarding its origin. Some believe it comes from Taoism, others from Japanese Shintoism, and some claim it is a Sanskrit symbol affecting the first three chakras. However, despite differences in opinions about its origins, the essence of Chokurei is clear: the horizontal line represents the cosmos or the divine, the vertical symbolizes the union of the divine with the earth, and the spiral indicates connection with the self.

In Western practices, practitioners are taught to recite “chokurei” three times after tracing the symbol, either verbally or mentally, to increase the flow of energy. Although “chokurei” means “imperial decree” in Japanese and is not considered a mantra in the traditional sense, this repetition helps many practitioners feel an increase in energy. This symbol is commonly used in both treatments and self-treatments of Reiki to promote harmony. Western Reiki schools draw it each time hand positions are changed, while some Japanese schools use it only when a sensation in the hand indicates accumulation of dense energy, tension, or pain in the corresponding area, known as byôsen.

The tracing of the Chokurei symbol should be continuous and fluid, starting with the horizontal line from left to right, then the vertical from top to bottom, and finally the spiral counterclockwise. Once traced, it is recommended to keep the hands in the same treatment position for a few minutes, allowing the energy to flow and stabilize.

The Chokurei symbol can also be used to purify spaces that feel energetically dense, such as rooms or halls. Additionally, in emotionally demanding situations like discussions or meetings, it can be traced in reverse on the body to maintain a state of full awareness and protection. Some Reiki masters believe that when traced in reverse, Chokurei creates an energy bubble that repels negative influences, though it is more likely that this sense of protection comes from the deep connection with the cosmos that any Reiki practice can provide.

The second Reiki symbol, Seiheki or symbol for bad habits, likely originates from Sanskrit, specifically the syllable “Hrih,” representing the “sacred seed syllable,” an emblem of Avalokiteshvara, the Buddha of compassion. In Western schools, students are taught to repeat “seiheki” three times after tracing the symbol to help address imbalanced psychological aspects, although this practice is discouraged because “seiheki” means “bad habits” in Japanese. “Seiheki” is not a mantra as believed in Western Reiki schools.

The Seiheki symbol or symbol for bad habits is traced in four gentle movements: first the front part making a zigzag, then the back stroke covering the first stroke, and finally the two semicircles. This symbol is essential in the technique known as Seiheki Chyrio, used to treat bad habits and addictions. Continued practice of this technique also helps manage emotions better, improve mood, and increase self-esteem.

The symbol known as Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen, also called the distance symbol, is not a symbol in the traditional sense but a “jumon,” a sacred Japanese phrase written in Kanji meaning “the purity that resided in the original heart of the human being.” This phrase allows us to connect with another person’s energy, even when they are not physically present, enabling distance treatments known as “enkaku Reiki.”

Distance Reiki practice is based on the intention for another person to receive the benefits of Reiki energy when we practice. In reality, it is not necessary to send energy anywhere, as according to Buddhist belief, since we are all energetically connected, when we perform a spiritual action, we generate spiritual energy that can be offered to other living beings. This idea is reflected in the use of Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen for sending distance Reiki, where the spiritual benefits of our effort are offered to another person.

In addition to its use in distance treatments, Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen can help us connect with past or future situations that disturb us, such as unresolved conflicts or unsettling events. It is also used to bring harmony to our relationships and resolve difficulties.

Finally, Dai Kô Myô, known as the master symbol in Western Reiki schools, is taught in the third Reiki course (shinpiden) and means “great bright light,” a spiritual phrase that brings purity and blessings. “Dai Kô Myô” is a phrase with great strength and kindness, a kind of “kotodama” (word that comes from the soul). It is used to deeply connect with Reiki and balance that which has lost its center.

Dai Kô Myô is used for blessing, but also for performing “Reijus” (Reiki initiations) and other advanced practices, especially in some Western schools. However, although some practices are very popular, such as the Reiki technique for opening a Reiki channel before a course, these techniques have been added recently. The main use of Dai Kô Myô remains deepening spiritual practice and meditation.

Jordi Ibern