If you look closely at nature, every single thing has its own special purpose and role that keeps the universe in balance.

We cannot live on this earth by ourselves. We can see this among the plants and trees that need animals and insects to pollinate their seeds, as

well as to decompose material into nutrients. In turn, the animals and insects need plants and trees for shelter, food, and the atmosphere purifying capabilities they provide. If you look closely at nature, every single thing has its own special purpose and role that keeps the universe in balance. If all the plants died, the animals would cease to exist, and similarly, if the animals and insects died, the plants and trees would cease to exist as well. This is Interdependence; each cannot fulfill its purpose without the other.

The incorporation of Interdependence into Konkokyo is a unique aspect of its doctrine. In many religions, Kami is perceived as almighty, all-knowing, and above all. However, we believe Kami is closer to us than this, in that
Kami must work with us and we, with Kami, in order for Kami’s desire–– for all people to be freed from hardships––to be fulfilled.

It may sound strange to hear that Kami needs our help to make us happy,but just as parents wishing for their children’s happiness cannot help them if the children reject their aid, there is only so much Kami can do until we put down our barricades and allow Kami to guide us. Our Founder once said, “Kami is Kami because of people, and people are people because of Kami.” We cannot exist without Kami and the blessings of Kami, and Kami cannot be realized by us, cannot be a god to us, without our cooperation.

Kami is patiently waiting for each of us to fulfill our part by recognizing and embracing Kami’s guidance.