Symbols Across Traditions
Understanding Six Reiki Symbols
Traditional Usui Reiki has four main symbols. These are the standard symbols taught in most lineages.
Some traditions have additional symbols. Karuna Reiki, developed by William Lee Rand, includes additional symbols. Holy Fire Reiki also has additional symbols.
The six symbols refer to the four traditional symbols plus additional symbols from these modern traditions.
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.
The Core
The Four Main 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.
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.
Some traditions, like Karuna Reiki, have additional symbols.
The six symbols are not standard in traditional Usui Reiki.
The four core symbols are Cho Ku Rei, Sei He Ki, Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen, and Dai Ko Myo.
Different traditions have different numbers of symbols.
The number of symbols depends on your lineage.
Frequently asked questions
What are the six Reiki symbols?
The six symbols refer to the four traditional Usui symbols plus additional symbols from other traditions like Karuna Reiki.
Is there a standard six symbols in Reiki?
No. The six symbols are not standard in traditional Usui Reiki. They are part of specific lineages.
What is Karuna Reiki?
Karuna Reiki is a modern tradition developed by William Lee Rand. It includes additional symbols beyond the four.
Does Holy Fire Reiki have additional symbols?
Yes. Holy Fire Reiki is a modern variation with additional symbols and techniques.
Should I learn the four or six symbols?
Learn the tradition that resonates with you. The four main symbols are the foundation. Additional symbols build on the core.
Sources
- Frank Arjava Petter, Reiki Fire, 1997.
- Bronwen and Frans Stiene, The Reiki Sourcebook, 2003.
- William Lee Rand, Karuna Reiki materials.
- Traditional Usui Reiki teachings.
