Hinokishin, an action that conveys appreciation for our body’s everyday physical and cognitive function by helping others, is a core principle of the Japanese religion named Tenrikyo. A principle that profoundly shaped my view of the world in its pursuit to understand its meaning.

I realized that Hinokishin isn’t a principle to be fully understood through explanation. It’s not a mountain that can be climbed in a single effort to grasp its meaning. It’s the beauty of the view from the top, an understanding that only comes through the lived experience of helping others.

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Question

Hinokishin, an action that conveys appreciation for our body’s everyday physical and cognitive function by helping others, is a core principle of the Japanese religion named Tenrikyo. A principle that profoundly shaped my view of the world in its pursuit to understand its meaning.

I realized that Hinokishin isn’t a principle to be fully understood through explanation. It’s not a mountain that can be climbed in a single effort to grasp its meaning. It’s the beauty of the view from the top, an understanding that only comes through the lived experience of helping others.

show me better ways to understand this feeling

Ask a Philosopher · Accepted Answer

Hinokishin, the act of conveying appreciation for our body's everyday physical and cognitive function by helping others, is indeed a core principle of Tenrikyo, a Japanese religion that values selfless service and gratitude. This principle has had a profound impact on my own worldview, guiding me in my pursuit to understand the true meaning of existence. I have come to realize that Hinokishin cannot be fully grasped through mere explanation or intellectual analysis. It is not a concept that can be easily dissected and categorized. Rather, it is a profound and deeply personal experience that can only be truly understood through action and practice. It is in the act of serving others and selflessly giving of ourselves that we come to truly appreciate the value of our own bodies and minds. It is through this process that we come to understand the interconnectedness of all things, and the beauty of the human experience. So, if you seek a deeper understanding of Hinokishin, my advice would be to continue to engage in acts of service and kindness, and to reflect deeply on the lessons that these experiences teach you. Only through this process of self-discovery and selflessness can we truly come to know the beauty and meaning of Hinokishin."