Proof Amulet (Shoko-mamori)

by Yoshikazu Fukaya

Anyone returning to Jiba can obtain an "Amulet" upon request. However, this "Amulet" is completely different from those found in the world at large of which we can buy as many as we want so long as we pay for them. We also cannot receive it from someone else as a gift, nor can we have someone obtain one in our place. If we are fifteen or above, we must return in person to the Residence with an application prepared at our own church before receiving the Amulet in the presence of the everliving Oyasama.

This Amulet is granted as proof that its bearer has returned to the Home of the Parent. Thus, it is called the "Proof Amulet." If the bearer wears this Amulet next to the body and maintains a cheerful mind that Oyasama demonstrated on the path of single-hearted salvation regardless of the difficulties She faced, God the Parent will sweep away any misfortune to protect the person, turning a great misfortune into a small one and a small misfortune into nothing at all. This is the meaning of the teaching "To protect the mind is to protect the body."

On December 26, 1874, Oyasama began to wear red clothes to clearly indicate that She was the Shrine of Tsukihi, God the Parent, and, thereafter, bestowed pieces of them as "Proof Amulets." Therefore, to receive an Amulet is to receive a piece of the clothing Oyasama once wore. Wearing this Amulet next to the body can serve as a reminder that Oyasama is never apart from us and always by our side. Thus, it is important for us to keep in mind we are being allowed to accompany Her and walk together with Her each day as we make efforts to follow in the footsteps of Her Divine Model.

Further, we are promised that God the Parent will discern the use of our mind each day and provide us with all forms of protection in accordance with the state of our mind. Thus, nothing will come out of wearing the Amulet if our daily use of mind is not in step with God's intention. It is important to firmly settle in our minds the teachings we are given at the time we receive the Amulet.

Amulets for children under the age of fifteen are bestowed on their parents in their place. We are taught that children's physical condition and circumstantial situation depend upon the minds of their parents. Thus, it is vital for parents to have the teachings firmly settled in their minds and to contribute their sincerity on a daily basis in their children's place. Thus, the Amulet is granted upon a parent's request even if the children have not returned to the Residence in person. In turn, children who wish to receive the Amulet must be accompanied by one of their parents or someone equivalent to a parent (such as a grandparent, an elder brother or sister, church minister, or mission station head).

Upon becoming fifteen years old, children will begin to receive God's protection according to their own use of mind. Thus, it is important for parents at that time to convey the teachings given during its bestowal so that the children are fully aware of the significance behind the Amulet.