The Divine Directions' references to discursiveness address a state of mind where those aspiring to follow the path are unable to be thorough in their single-heartedness with God because they are distracted by human thinking, with the result that their minds are agitated. We read:

With reference to the path of God, trying to follow the path of God cannot be called single-heartedness with God if you are distracted by discursive thoughts.

Osashizu, March 3, 1898

In order to become thorough in one's single-heartedness with God, it is important to let go of discursive thoughts. The Divine Directions say:

Discursive thinking is a hindrance, I say.

Osashizu, April 12, 1892

It will not do for the minds of two or three of you to be distracted by discursive thoughts. I will be unable to count on you.

Osashizu, March 29, 1904

To free the mind from discursive thoughts, one must "be careful not to let worldly common truths dominate the mind" (Osashizu, January 14, 1892). This is often tricky. Yet discursive thinking, if left unaddressed, can cause one to suffer from illnesses and other problems. A Divine Direction says, "Discursive thinking among you will manifest itself in accord with your state of mind" (Osashizu, April 29, 1893).

(This article was first published in the October 2008 issue of TENRIKYO.)