Tenrikyo weaves its moral compass into everyday moments, inviting everyone to live out the “Joyous Life” by following three simple yet profound guiding principles:

1. Cultivate a Grateful Heart
   Instead of strict dos and don’ts, Tenrikyo places huge emphasis on gratitude toward the divine Parent. Starting each morning with a moment of reflection—often through the Morning and Evening Services—sets the tone: look for blessings in the small stuff, from a cup of tea to an unexpected smile.

2. Practice Hinokishin (Selfless Service)
   Rolling up the sleeves to help neighbors, cleaning up after community events or simply lending a hand where it’s needed—these acts of voluntary service are the backbone of Tenrikyo ethics. In many corners of the world, followers have been out front in disaster relief and pandemic support, turning “many hands make light work” into a lived reality.

3. Avoid Selfish Desires
   The teachings remind folks to check greed, arrogance and self-centeredness at the door. By keeping daily desires in balance, it’s easier to stay connected to others and trust that true fulfillment comes from harmony rather than hoarding.

A couple of modern touches help these ideals stay fresh:

• Digital Devotion: Some congregations now livestream services or share short reflections via social media, so gratitude never feels stale—even if the morning cup of coffee is.
• Eco-Friendly Hinokishin: Aligning with global sustainability trends, Tenrikyo communities have organized clean-ups in parks and urban gardens, seeing environmental care as part of divine stewardship.

There isn’t a rigid code of commandments; instead, Tenrikyo encourages personal growth through joyous expression. Dancing the Teodori or singing the Mikagura-Uta in festival season isn’t just ritual—it’s a collective reminder that ethics and spirituality are friends, not distant relatives. When daily life becomes an offering of sincere joy and service, ethical guidance stops feeling like a chore and starts feeling like second nature.