Fast facts
Dai Ko Myo
Great shining light
Master symbol
Shinpiden (Level 3/Master)
Attunements, spiritual connection
The Fourth Symbol
Understanding Dai Ko Myo
Dai Ko Myo is the fourth Reiki symbol. It is taught at Shinpiden (Level 3), the master level. It is not taught at Okuden (Level 2). It is reserved for those who will teach others.
The name means 'great shining light.' 'Dai' means 'great.' 'Ko' means 'shining' or 'light.' 'Myo' means 'wonderful' or 'mystery.' Together: 'Great shining light of wonder.'
The symbol represents the source of Reiki. It is the light from which all other Reiki energy flows. It connects the practitioner to the highest level of Reiki energy.
Uses of Dai Ko Myo
How to use the master symbol in practice.
- Attunements: Dai Ko Myo is used in the attunement ceremony to open Reiki channels for new students. It is the primary symbol of attunement.
- Spiritual connection: Dai Ko Myo deepens the practitioner's connection to the source of Reiki. It is used in meditation and spiritual practice.
- Master-level healing: Dai Ko Myo can be used for healing at the deepest level. It works on the spiritual and karmic level.
- Self-mastery: Dai Ko Myo is used for self-mastery and spiritual growth. It helps the practitioner align with their highest purpose.
- Protection: Dai Ko Myo provides the highest level of protection. It connects you to the divine source.
Dai Ko Myo Shape
How to draw the master symbol.
Elegant Character
Dai Ko Myo is drawn as an elegant, flowing character. It resembles a Japanese kanji.
Multiple Strokes
The symbol has multiple flowing strokes. It is beautiful and complex.
Intention Over Form
Drawing the symbol perfectly is less important than intention. The energy follows your intention.
The Origin of Dai Ko Myo
- Usui studies Buddhist and Shinto symbols, including esoteric Sanskrit characters.Dai Ko Myo likely has origins in Japanese esoteric Buddhist traditions.
- Usui reportedly receives the symbols during his awakening on Mount Kurama.Traditional story: the symbols appeared in the light.
- Usui and later Hayashi teach the symbols orally to students.Dai Ko Myo is kept secret, passed only to masters.
- Takata teaches the symbols in the West, allowing them to be written down.Dai Ko Myo becomes widely known and published.
Dai Ko Myo
Dai Ko Myo
Great shining light. Represents the source of Reiki. Used for attunements and spiritual connection.
Use for attunements (opening Reiki channels). For deepening spiritual connection. For self-mastery. For healing at the deepest level. For protection.
- Draw the symbol as an elegant, flowing character.
- It resembles a Japanese kanji with multiple strokes.
- Focus on intention more than perfect form. The energy follows your intention.
Opening the Channel
How Dai Ko Myo Is Used in Attunements
The attunement is the ceremony that opens Reiki channels for a new student. Dai Ko Myo is the primary symbol used in this ceremony.
During an attunement, the master draws or visualizes Dai Ko Myo. The symbol connects the student to the source of Reiki. The channel opens. The student is attuned.
The attunement is not a power transfer. It is an opening. The student's channel is opened. The energy can flow. Dai Ko Myo is the key that turns the lock.
How Masters Use Dai Ko Myo
I use Dai Ko Myo with great respect. It is the symbol of the source. I use it for attunements and for my own spiritual practice. It connects me to something greater than myself.
Dai Ko Myo is a powerful symbol. But it is not magic. It is a tool for connection. The power comes from the source, not the symbol. The symbol is a focus for intention.
Dai Ko Myo is taught only at the master level. It is not a symbol to be used casually. It represents the highest level of Reiki energy. Use it with respect.
Key takeaways
- Dai Ko Myo means 'great shining light.' It is the master symbol.
- It represents the source of Reiki energy.
- It is used primarily for attunements (opening Reiki channels).
- It is taught only at Shinpiden (Level 3/Master level).
- It is drawn as an elegant, flowing character.
- Use Dai Ko Myo with great respect. It represents the highest level of Reiki.
Frequently asked questions
What does Dai Ko Myo mean literally?
It means 'great shining light.' It represents the source of Reiki energy.
Can I use Dai Ko Myo if I am not a master?
Traditionally, Dai Ko Myo is taught only at the master level. It is not given to students below Shinpiden.
How is Dai Ko Myo different from the other symbols?
Dai Ko Myo is the highest symbol. It represents the source of Reiki. The other symbols are tools. Dai Ko Myo is the connection to the source.
Is Dai Ko Myo used for healing?
Yes, it can be used for healing at the deepest level. It works on the spiritual and karmic level.
Should I use Dai Ko Myo daily?
If you are a master, you can use it in your daily practice. Many masters use it for spiritual connection and meditation.
Sources
- Frank Arjava Petter, Reiki Fire, 1997.
- Bronwen and Frans Stiene, The Reiki Sourcebook, 2003.
- Traditional Usui Reiki teaching materials.
