.jpg)
Opening and Closing Prayer.
All classes begin and end with a recitation of the prayer to heaven.
"Chihaya Furu Kami No Oshiewa, Tokoshini Tadaska Kokoro Mio Mamururan"
"Praise be to God who gives divine protection and a pure heart"
Then all students promise heaven by reciting:
"Shikin Haramitsu Daikomyo"
" I will have a heart of mercy, I will be sincere in what I say, I will seek harmony with the natural world and other people, I will dedicate my self to Hasshodo through Ninpo training way to live a good life"
SHIKIN (the four types of heart)
i) A merciful heart
ii) A sincere heart
iii) A heart in tune with nature
iv) A heart dedicated to a chosen pursuit
HARAMITSU
Great wisdom
DAI KOMYO
Powerful or great light (energy)
So a merciful, sincere heart in tune with nature that is dedicated and combined with wisdom can produce a massive result for the student. This is a powerful prayer. By saying this one harmonizes themselves with the natural world.
'The Rice Crop'
"The rice grows to maturity
And then gently bows towards the earth"