About Happy Science
We have faith in Lord El Cantare, Eternal Buddha, who has been guiding humanity throughout eternity. In the past, the consciousness of El Cantare was incarnated as Shakyamuni Buddha (Gautama Siddhartha) in India, and as Hermes in Greece. Now, His core consciousness has descended on earth as Master Ryuho Okawa and preaches the Truth.
The happiness that is taught at Happy Science is the happiness that runs through this world and the next; it is another name for "enlightenment." The teachings of Happy Science are based on the Buddhist spirit. Through learning and practicing the Truth, you will be able to deepen your character, build better relationships with others, create a harmonious family, and improve work skills. In the process you will gain much "nourishment for the soul," which has the power to shine through to your next life as well. To lead everyone to true happiness, we continue our activities every day.
Who is Ryuho Okawa?
Ryuho Okawa, founder of Happy Science (Kofuku-no-Kagaku in Japanese), has devoted his life to the exploration of the Truth and ways to happiness. He was born in 1956 in Tokushima, Japan. He graduated from the University of Tokyo.
In March 1981, he received his higher calling and awakened to the hidden part of his consciousness, El Cantare. After working at a major Tokyo-based trading house and studying international finance at the Graduate Center of the University of New York, he established the Happy Science in 1986.
What We Believe
Buddha Nature
All living things are precious because they have been given Buddha-nature. Buddha-nature is the diamond that is found in the core of each animal, person and plant. This shining jewel in our heart forms the base of Buddhist compassion and pacifism.
Eternal life
Transcending age and place, we reincarnate repeatedly to refine our souls in order to create utopia. You may think that you did not choose your parents, or that you are a victim of the pain and suffering in your life. But we believe that the path to freedom and control of your life is to accept the life plan you made before birth. You chose these difficulties because you thought it would provide greater opportunity for the growth of your soul. When you realize this, you are able to confront your life assignments, complete the training of your soul, and fulfill your mission to bring happiness to others as you tackle your own problems. Happy Science (HS) has many teachings that help you confront your choices and make the most of your opportunities.
How to improve your life
We believe that it is possible to improve your life through work, study and meditation. If you choose to become an HS member, you will receive the fundamental sutras, “The Dharma of the Right Mind,” and “Prayer Books" 1 and 2. By reciting these sutras, you will be able to receive spiritual energy from the heavenly world, attune your mind to your guardian and guiding spirits, and transform your life for the better. The ceremony of becoming a member is called "taking refuge in the Three Jewels". The Three Jewels are Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. “Buddha” is the one who preaches Dharma. “Dharma” is the teachings that Buddha gives. “Sangha” is the group of disciples, the HS organization. So, the phrase "taking refuge in the Three Jewels" means “I will find refuge in Buddha, his teachings, and organization ... I will have deep faith, study, and follow you.” This is a promise you make to Buddha that you will practice exploring the Right Mind for your whole life, as a way to improve that life and help the world and others.
Heaven and Hell
We believe that Heaven and Hell are not just places you go after death. Our present state of mind is connected to the spiritual world. This is because there is something called the “law of like attracts like.” Those who have lived the kind of life in this world which pleases and attracts the positive spirits (angels) of the other world will return to heaven. Those who indulge in negative and harmful thoughts and practices will attractive negative spirits and return to hell. That is why it is important to refine your minds and live with the same state of mind that heavenly spirits have. This not only insures you will return to heaven, but also opens up your path to happiness in this world as a child of Buddha.