Fast facts
Great shining light
Attunements, spiritual deepening
Elegant, flame-like character
Level 3 (Master/Shinpiden)
DIE ko myo
The Great Shining Light
The Meaning and Purpose of Dai Ko Myo
Dai Ko Myo is the master symbol. It is not taught until Level 3. It is the most sacred of the Reiki symbols.
The literal translation is 'great shining light.' This light is the source of Reiki. The divine light of healing. The origin of all energy.
Unlike the other symbols, Dai Ko Myo is not a tool. It is the source. The other symbols draw from it. When you use Dai Ko Myo, you are connecting directly to the origin.
What Dai Ko Myo Means and How to Use It
Understanding the master symbol.
- Literal meaning: 'Great shining light.' The light is the source of Reiki. The divine light of healing. The origin of all energy.
- Symbolic meaning: The elegant, flame-like shape represents the radiant light of the source. It is said to contain the essence of all other symbols.
- Attunements: Dai Ko Myo is the central symbol used in Reiki attunements. Masters draw it during the attunement ceremony to open the student's channel.
- Spiritual deepening: Masters use Dai Ko Myo for their own spiritual practice. Meditating on the symbol connects them to the source of Reiki.
- Activating other symbols: Some masters draw Dai Ko Myo first, then other symbols on top. It activates them from the source.
- Master only: Dai Ko Myo should only be used by those who have received master attunement. Respect the tradition.
Dai Ko Myo Symbol
The master symbol and its uses.
Attunements
Used by masters to open students' energy channels to Reiki.
Spiritual Practice
Masters meditate on Dai Ko Myo to deepen their connection to Reiki.
Source Connection
Connects directly to the source of Reiki, the great shining light.
Breaking Down the Words
The Meaning of Dai Ko Myo in Detail
Dai Ko Myo is three Japanese words. 'Dai' means 'great' or 'big.' 'Ko' means 'light' or 'brightness.' 'Myo' means 'wonderful' or 'mysterious.' Together: 'great shining light.'
The 'great shining light' is the source of Reiki. It is the divine light that underlies all of creation. It is the healing light that flows through all things.
The symbol represents this light. When you draw it, you are connecting to the source. You are not calling the light. You are recognizing that you are already part of it.
The Core Use
How Masters Use Dai Ko Myo in Attunements
The attunement ceremony opens a student's energy channel to Reiki. Dai Ko Myo is central to this ceremony.
During the attunement, the master draws Dai Ko Myo in the air or visualizes it. They place their hands on the student's head, shoulders, and hands. They intend to open the student's channel.
The symbol represents the source of Reiki. By drawing it, the master is connecting the student directly to the source. The student's channel opens. They become a conduit for Reiki.
Attunements are a sacred responsibility. Masters train extensively before performing them.
What Reiki Masters Say About Dai Ko Myo
Dai Ko Myo is sacred. I do not use it casually. I use it during attunements and in my own meditation. When I draw it, I feel connected to everything. To Usui. To the lineage. To the source of all healing. It humbles me.
Dai Ko Myo is powerful. But it is not magic. It is a reminder that you are already connected to the source. The symbol helps you remember. Your intention opens the channel.
Do not use Dai Ko Myo unless you are a Reiki master. Respect the tradition. Get proper training. The symbol is sacred.
Key takeaways
- Dai Ko Myo means 'great shining light.' It is the Reiki master symbol.
- Unlike other symbols, Dai Ko Myo is not a tool. It represents the source of Reiki.
- It is taught only at Reiki Level 3 (Master/Shinpiden).
- Use it for attunements, spiritual deepening, and connecting to the source of Reiki.
- Only Reiki masters should use Dai Ko Myo. Respect the tradition.
- You do not need Dai Ko Myo for effective Reiki practice. The other symbols are sufficient.
Frequently asked questions
What does Dai Ko Myo mean in English?
It means 'great shining light.' It represents the source of Reiki, the divine light of healing.
How do you pronounce Dai Ko Myo?
DIE ko myo. Some say DIE ko mee oh. Both are acceptable.
When should I use Dai Ko Myo?
Only Reiki masters should use Dai Ko Myo. Use it for attunements and spiritual deepening.
Can Level 2 practitioners use Dai Ko Myo?
No. Dai Ko Myo is taught only at Level 3 (Master). It should not be used by lower levels.
Is Dai Ko Myo necessary for Reiki to work?
No. The other symbols are sufficient for effective Reiki practice. Dai Ko Myo is for attunements and master-level practice.
Sources
- Frank Arjava Petter, Reiki Fire, 1997.
- Bronwen and Frans Stiene, The Reiki Sourcebook, 2003.
- Traditional Reiki Master teachings.
