Construction

What does the Tenrikyo term "construction" mean?

Tenrikyo primarily uses the term "construction" to metaphorically refer to the process of building the world of the Joyous Life, a process that will lead to God's salvation of all people in the world. Oyasama Herself referred to this process for the first time when, after giving away one possession after another, She finally got rid of the Nakayama family's main house, saying: "Now I shall begin to build a new world. Celebrate the occasion with Me!" The proceeds from the sale of the house were distributed to those in need.

The metaphor of construction also involves other words and expressions designed to make the teachings easier to understand. They include: "Yoboku (useful timber)," which refers to those who convey God's intention, help others be saved, and thus work for the construction of the Joyous Life World, as well as "carpenter" and "master carpenter," both denoting those who take leading roles in salvation work.

The construction of a new world is also called "wondrous construction" for two reasons. First, it is to be advanced through God the Parent's wondrous salvation, whereby even those considered hopeless by doctors will be saved, depending solely on their sincerity of mind. Second, when those who adore God the Parent strive to build the Joyous Life World with true sincerity that is single-hearted with God, their efforts will bear fruit that is beyond human understanding.

Furthermore, if God the Parent's salvation is to be received, it is important to construct and maintain the Home of the Parent centered on the Jiba-Kanrodai in such a way that more and more people may return to Jiba and come into touch with the parental love of God the Parent. This endeavor is called "Oyasato construction," or "construction of the Home of the Parent." Thus, the term "construction" is also used to refer to the construction of physical facilities necessary to realize God the Parent's salvation, including local churches' sanctuaries and other buildings.

Construction work at the Home of the Parent as well as churches is an important aspect of the process of advancing "the construction of a new world." Participating actively in such work is in accordance with the intention of God the Parent, who desires the Joyous Life, and it becomes a "seed of everything," which enables us to receive true salvation.

As for salvation, you might carry out hinokishin, even if just for a day. Your single-mindedness would be a delight. Wondrous construction for salvation--wondrous construction is for the acceptance of your sincerity.

Osashizu, June 15, 1890



(This article was excerpted from Questions and Answers about Tenrikyo, 168-170.)