Symbols Across Traditions
All Reiki Symbols by Tradition
Traditional Usui Reiki has four main symbols. These are the standard symbols taught in most lineages.
Some traditions have additional symbols. Karuna Reiki, Holy Fire Reiki, and other modern traditions have additional symbols.
The complete list depends on your tradition. The four main symbols are the foundation.
Reiki Symbols by Tradition
Number of symbols in different traditions.
Traditional Usui
4 symbols: Cho Ku Rei, Sei He Ki, Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen, Dai Ko Myo.
Western Usui
Sometimes 5 symbols. The four plus a fifth variation.
Karuna Reiki
Additional symbols beyond the four. Often 8 or more.
Holy Fire Reiki
Additional symbols and techniques beyond the four.
Other Traditions
Various additional symbols and techniques.
The Foundation
The Four Usui Reiki Symbols
Cho Ku Rei: The power symbol. Increases energy flow and protection.
Sei He Ki: The emotional/mental symbol. Heals emotional wounds and releases mental patterns.
Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen: The distance symbol. Allows healing across space and time.
Dai Ko Myo: The master symbol. Represents the great shining light. Used for attunements.
The Compassion Symbols
Karuna Reiki Symbols
Karuna Reiki was developed by William Lee Rand. It includes additional symbols beyond the four.
Karuna means 'compassion' in Sanskrit. The symbols focus on compassion, healing, and transformation.
Karuna Reiki symbols are taught at advanced levels. They are not part of traditional Usui Reiki.
The Modern Variation
Holy Fire Reiki Symbols
Holy Fire Reiki is a modern variation developed by the International Center for Reiki Training.
It includes additional symbols and techniques beyond the four.
Holy Fire Reiki is taught at advanced levels. It is not part of traditional Usui Reiki.
What Practitioners Say
I practice traditional Usui Reiki. I use the four main symbols. They are enough for my practice. I respect other traditions that have additional symbols.
Different traditions have different symbols. The four main symbols are the core. Additional symbols are variations. Choose the tradition that resonates with you.
Do not get caught up in the number of symbols. The core four are powerful. Additional symbols are useful. But the practice is the point.
Key takeaways
The shortest useful version of this page.
Traditional Usui Reiki has four main symbols.
Other traditions have additional symbols.
The four core symbols are Cho Ku Rei, Sei He Ki, Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen, and Dai Ko Myo.
Karuna Reiki and Holy Fire Reiki have additional symbols.
The complete list depends on your lineage.
The core four are the foundation.
Frequently asked questions
How many Reiki symbols are there in total?
There is no single total. Traditional Usui has 4. Other traditions have additional symbols. The total depends on your lineage.
What are the four main Reiki symbols?
Cho Ku Rei, Sei He Ki, Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen, and Dai Ko Myo.
What is Karuna Reiki?
Karuna Reiki is a modern tradition developed by William Lee Rand. It includes additional symbols beyond the four.
What is Holy Fire Reiki?
Holy Fire Reiki is a modern variation developed by the International Center for Reiki Training. It includes additional symbols.
Do I need to learn all the symbols?
No. Learn the tradition that resonates with you. The four main symbols are the foundation.
Sources
- Frank Arjava Petter, Reiki Fire, 1997.
- Bronwen and Frans Stiene, The Reiki Sourcebook, 2003.
- William Lee Rand, Karuna Reiki materials.
- International Center for Reiki Training, Holy Fire Reiki.
- Traditional Usui Reiki teachings.
