What is Happy Science?

Happy Science is a universal religion based on faith in El Cantare, who is Buddha, God, the great consciousness of the universe. It was founded by Master Ryuho Okawa in Japan in 1986.

He explains, “I am now trying to teach a new view of humankind, of life, and of the world. Since ancient times, it has been said there is a huge tree in the universe. One enormous tree of life. You may believe that you are living your life separately, as an individual, but things are different when seen from a spiritual perspective. There is one large tree and the name of this huge tree is El Cantare. It has many large branches, which are the various races of different countries, which have been determined by different religions. In many different eras, various religions have appeared and many kinds of races have flourished. Some of these various branches may come together as a country. A branch divides again into separate countries and areas. Then these branches divide into smaller branches, and so on. At the very tip of a branch a cherry blossom blooms; this is one being. So your individuality exists at the very tip of a branch on this giant cosmic tree, and on the branch next to you are your companions that you can call your soul mates. So all souls are actually connected to each other. That is why I am telling you to love each other. To hate and hurt each other is to try to cut off the very branch you are sitting on. Hatred and war exists between races and religions because we cannot reach an understanding. But if we understand that we are branches on the same single tree, then war and hatred will vanish. The religion of Happy Science was made to teach that. I am trying to unite the world. I am trying to bring peace and abundance in the truest meaning.”
[excerpt: Live a Life of Truth]

Activities of Happy Science

People in Happy Science are…
Reading the books of Master Okawa
Cultivating faith in the divine
Deepening their love and wisdom
Attending weekly prayer services
Watching lecture videos at local branches
Hosting open public seminars
Attending international retreats
Attending meditation & contemplation sessions
Studying Master Okawa’s teachings in seminars
Supporting charity activities in Africa and Asia
Hosting “Friends Against Suicide Campaigns”
Hosting “Anti-Bullying Campaigns” for schools
Meeting soul-related friends from all over the world

How to Join

Happy Science is a universal religion that is open to people of all backgrounds, whether Christian, Buddhist, Hindu, or Muslim. All are studying the universal teachings of Truth together as members. To join there is an application form, and a short welcoming ceremony in which you will be asked, “Do you believe in the Lord?” All will receive the prayer book, “The Dharma of the Right Mind.”