Reiki

Symbols hold significant importance in the practice of Reiki, especially at the second and third levels, serving as keys that unlock different aspects of the healing energy. Introduced at the second level, or Okuden, these symbols act as a focus point for the practitioner to channel specific frequencies of energy. In this chapter, we will discuss the primary symbols used in traditional Usui Reiki, their names, meanings, and purposes.

*Please note that different Reiki schools and lineages might have variations in the symbols and their usage. Some of these are part of the traditional Usui Reiki system, while others belong to various derivative systems like Karuna Reiki® or are specific to particular schools or teachers. It's also worth noting that some of the symbols like Aum/Om/Ohm and Antahkarana, are spiritual symbols used across multiple traditions and are not exclusive to Reiki, but are still used by some practitioners.

Traditional Usui Reiki Symbols

Cho Ku Rei - The Power Symbol

The Cho Ku Rei symbol, also known as the Power Symbol, roughly translates to "place the power of the universe here." Its primary function is to increase the power of Reiki and focus it in a specific location or situation.

The symbol resembles a coil or spiral and is often associated with light. In a Reiki session, the practitioner might use Cho Ku Rei at the beginning to increase the power of their healing energy and at the end to seal the healing energy within the recipient. It can also be used for protection and cleansing of spaces.

Sei He Ki - The Emotional/Mental Symbol

Sei He Ki is known as the Mental and Emotional symbol, and its name can be translated as "God and man become one." This symbol is used to balance the right and left brain, aiding in emotional healing, releasing mental stress, and enhancing memory.

The symbol represents a wave washing over a line, signifying the cleansing or balancing effect it has on the mind and emotions. It is particularly beneficial when dealing with emotional traumas, anxiety, depression, and enhancing personal growth.

Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen - The Distance Symbol

Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen, also known as the Distance Symbol, translates to "the divine in me recognizes the divine in you to connect us." This symbol transcends time and space, allowing the practitioner to send Reiki energy across distances and even to different points in time.

The symbol is typically employed in distance healing sessions, where the practitioner sends healing energy to a recipient who is not physically present. It can also be used to send healing energy to specific events in the past, present, or future.

Dai Ko Myo - The Master Symbol

The Dai Ko Myo symbol is the Master Symbol in the Usui Reiki system. Its name is often translated as "great shining light" or "great enlightenment." This symbol represents the full realization of the divine light within and is only used by Reiki Masters.

Dai Ko Myo is used to heal the soul and awaken one's true nature. It can clear karmic or genetic patterns and connect the practitioner more deeply with their intuitive and psychic abilities. It is also the symbol used during attunements to pass on the Reiki healing ability to others.

These symbols represent different aspects of the same universal life force energy and work together to support the healing process. They act as bridges between the conscious mind and the subconscious, allowing the practitioner to focus the Reiki energy and address specific areas of need. As you continue your journey with Reiki, these symbols will become a natural part of your practice, amplifying your healing intent and deepening your connection with this profound energy.

Other Reiki Symbols

Halu - The Love Symbol (Karuna Reiki®):

Used for deep healing and protection, helps break up negative patterns and fosters self-love and self-esteem.

Zonar - The Time Symbol (Karuna Reiki®):

Helps with healing past life issues and karmic patterns, and assists in releasing deep-seated emotional trauma.

Raku - The Completion Symbol:

Used in the attunement process to ground the student after receiving the attunement.

Shanti - The Peace Symbol (Karuna Reiki®):

Used for deep healing, peace, and tranquility.

Harth - The Symbol of Truth and Beauty (Karuna Reiki®):

Works on the heart and emotional body, promotes healing of deep emotional issues, and helps cultivate unconditional love and compassion.

Gnosa - The Knowledge Symbol (Karuna Reiki®):

Helps improve communication and promotes understanding and learning.

Rama - The Joy Symbol (Karuna Reiki®):

Clears lower energies and raises vibrations, promoting joy and happiness

Antahkarana - The Healing Symbol:

Not exclusive to Reiki, often used to connect the physical and higher self, fostering a deeper level of healing.

Other Symbols (non-traditional)

There are many other symbols in Reiki such as Lava, Jin So Gen, Two Cho Ku Rei, Midas Star, Fusion Reiki, Palm Di Ko Mio, Aum Om Ohm, and Fire Serpent—however these are not part of the traditional Reiki systems and do not have universally agreed-upon meanings or uses in the context of Reiki. They may be specific to certain schools, teachers, or derivative systems of Reiki, or they may be symbols used in other spiritual or healing traditions.

For instance, the Aum/Om/Ohm symbol is a sacred sound and spiritual icon in Indian religions. It signifies the essence of the ultimate reality, consciousness, or Atman.

Please consult with a qualified Reiki Master or teacher for guidance on the use and interpretation of these symbols, as the details and applicability can vary greatly depending on the context and lineage. Remember, symbols in Reiki are tools to help focus and direct energy, but the real power comes from your intent and connection to the universal life force energy.