Tenrikyo centers on a single, all-loving deity known as Tenri-Ō-no-Mikoto—often called the Parent of all humanity. This faith sees every person as a child of this divine Parent, born with an original, joyous heart. Life’s purpose? To cultivate genuine happiness and harmony—what believers call the “Joyous Life.”

Key teachings include:
• Original Mind and Causality (Innen): Every soul arrives with an innate desire to live joyfully. Life’s ups and downs aren’t random; they reflect past causes and effects. Recognizing this helps turn suffering into growth—like planting seeds after a storm to make a garden bloom again.
• Tanno (Joyous Acceptance): Even amid challenges, expressing gratitude becomes a daily practice—“counting one’s blessings,” so to speak. Thankfulness is a bridge to inner peace.
• Hinokishin (Spontaneous Service): Acts of kindness and community service flow naturally from a grateful heart. Far from an obligation, it’s like lending a hand without being asked—whether helping neighbors in need or volunteering at disaster relief, such as recent efforts after typhoons in Southeast Asia.
• Ritual and Music: The Mikagura-uta, sacred songs performed in ritual, nurture spiritual awareness, while the Service—dancing and chanting—unites participants in shared joy.
• Scriptures: The Ofudesaki (New Leaves), Mikagura-uta, and Osashizu (Divine Directions) offer poetic guidance. They read like personal letters from the Parent, encouraging sincere reflection.

Today, Tenrikyo chapters span dozens of countries, and annual events—like the global youth gathering in Brazil last summer—show how this faith’s message resonates across cultures. Pilgrims still flock to Tenri City in Japan, yet digital outreach, especially through social media, has brought its cheerful message to new audiences.

Rather than aiming for perfection, Tenrikyo invites everyone to take life one sincere step at a time, nurturing a caring community where each person’s joy adds to a collective chorus. It’s a faith that literally dances its way toward peace, believing that when hearts align with gratitude and service, the world can genuinely smile together.