"Purification" (Sumasu)

This is a term appearing in the Scriptures.

The purpose of salvation, according to Tenrikyo, is the realization of the Joyous Life. In order for that purpose to be accomplished, one of the things individuals ought to do is "purify the mind." This is clearly indicated in the songs that accompany the Service. For example:

Sweeping away evils, hasten to save us.
All humankind equally purified,
The Kanrodai.

Mikagura-uta, 3rd Section

The teachings will not easily enable us to make the mind joyous or make the world joyous unless we actually purify the mind.

A purified mind is characterized by the clear realization that God the Parent's loving heart pervades the world and by complete trust in the teachings of God the Parent and Oyasama. There are a variety of methods by which one can purify the mind. For instance, followers can listen to talks about the teachings, read the Scriptures, sprinkle the fragrance of the teachings, and work for the salvation of others. All these actions, which can be done in the course of daily life, help purify the mind. As for those who have yet to know of God the Parent, perhaps the best thing would be to come into touch with God the Parent's workings and, as it were, come face to face with God the Parent.

It is taught that God the Parent purifies the mind through providing proof, with the Ofudesaki talking about two modes of proof. One concerns the Kanrodai, while the other involves God's directions--specifically, directions that God gives by entering the human body (X:67-80).

As stated in the Ofudesaki at X:79-80 and IX:48-56, the first mode of proof refers to setting up the Kanrodai at the Jiba (the center of Tenrikyo Church Headquarters' Main Sanctuary) and performing the Service there. When this brings forth marvelous salvation, it becomes proof. Then, seeing the Kanrodai will enable one to embrace faith in the teachings of God the Parent and Oyasama and allow one's mind to become clear and pure.

In any case, unless you are able to see the proof of the truth, I cannot set out on My next preparations.

On however high a place you may be, I shall talk to you freely.

Ofudesaki VIII:87-88

That I place the Kanrodai in this Residence is the proof that I began human beings.

Beginning everything in this way, I shall purify the minds of the whole world.

Ofudesaki X:79-80

These verses refer to a profound aspect of faith--which, incidentally, provides not only those who have yet to become followers but also those who are already followers with a basis for affirming their faith in God the Parent. At the same time, such "proof" could be regarded as being dependent on a relationship of trust that is called "faith." This relation between proof and trust would be familiar to most people, for interpersonal relationships built on trust and confidence are part of common experience.

The second mode of proof--namely, entering the body to give directions--indicates how God the Parent works within people to help them know and trust in God by providing them with experiences that might be seen as extraordinary (Ofudesaki X:73-74, XIII:84-88, 91-93, etc.). This could be called religious conversion.

Ponder: whatever is said by mouth, if there is no sure proof, it will not do.

This is proof: Tsukihi has entered this body and gives directions freely and unlimitedly.

Ofudesaki X:73-74

The two modes of proof considered above are what the Ofudesaki is referring to when it says, "Tsukihi will . . . demonstrate the truth":

No matter how I try to tell you the truth by words, there is no one who understands.

Therefore, Tsukihi will at this time demonstrate the truth for you in all matters.

Ofudesaki XIII:87-88

We are taught that, if we cannot purify our mind ourselves, God will enter us and work in such a way as to help us make it pure and clear.

Purifying the mind is both the first step of faith and something that should be given constant attention throughout one's journey of faith.

(This article was first published in the August 2003 issue of TENRIKYO.)