Takata sensei performed initiations using Shinto and Buddhist elements.

 

On the Nature of Initiation in the Reiki Tradition: Buddhist-Shinto Roots and Practice

Not a “Consecration by the Holy Spirit,” but a Transmission According to Japanese Spiritual Tradition

In some interpretations circulated by modern Reiki researchers and Masters, it is claimed that Reiki initiation is a kind of Christian “consecration through the Holy Spirit.” However, this view does not align with the historical and cultural origins of the practice.

The method of initiation used by Hawayo Takata (Takata Sensei) is deeply rooted in Japanese spiritual traditions — particularly Shinto and esoteric Buddhism (Shingon).
The Power symbol bears visual and energetic resemblance to Shinto imagery, while the Mental symbol is similar to the Buddhist Kiriku (hrīḥ) symbol — a sacred syllable (bīja) associated with Buddha Amida (Amitabha), the protector of the Western Pure Land.

Thus, the transmission of energy in Reiki as taught by Takata is not a form of Christian mysticism, but rather a Japanese esoteric practice that combines sacred symbolism, ritual, and the teacher’s inner intention.

---

A Personal Experience of Transmission: A Tradition Preserved Through a Direct Lineage

My first teacher, Oleg Samolyanov, was the personal interpreter for Phyllis Furumoto, the granddaughter of Hawayo Takata.
Phyllis personally taught and initiated Oleg as a Reiki Master.

When Oleg performed the initiation for me, at the end of the ceremony he clapped his hands twice — a gesture that symbolizes the completion of a sacred act and the invocation of the kami (divine spirits) in the Shinto tradition.

This element once again highlights the profound connection of Reiki initiation to Japanese religious roots and distinguishes it from Western models of Christian consecration.

Kashiwade (柏手, “clap”) is a Shinto ritual — a clap performed by a worshipper in a Shinto shrine to attract the attention of spirits or deities. Conclusion:

The initiation used by Takata Sensei is not connected to Christianity or consecration through the Holy Spirit. Therefore, Reiki techniques are also not related to healing through the Holy Spirit.

Hakushu 拍手 (神道) is a word used to refer to ceremonial clapping in Shinto. It is also known as Kashiwade.