Great Construction

Control the Self

     In the daily lives of human beings there is probably nothing more terrifying than the self. This assertion can be understood by the knowledge that the primary goal of training in the spiritual world is controlling the self. In the past I was a member of the Omoto faith, and in the prophetic writings of the co-founder is the line: “Nothing is as terrifying as the self because even God bungles matters sometimes due to self.” Another passage is: “Self should be; self should not be. It is good if you have your self but keep it in check.” The senses of these excerpts impressed me deeply as indeed declaring in simple terms the reality of the self. Of course, there have been instances when these passages have led me to reflect deeply on myself.
     Another line from the prophetic writings states: “Being, gentle, obedient, and honest is best,” truly an apt saying. This is shown by the fact that those who with this attitude pay attention to what I teach experience matters and affairs smoothly and do not fail. Then, there are those with a very strong sense of self, and matters do not go that well for them. For that reason, it is very painful to see when they often fail.
     As shown above, the key to faith is to control the self; act with gentleness, obedience, and honesty; and not tell lies.

Kyūsei, Issue 50, page 2, February 18, 1950
translated by cynndd

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“Ga o Sare,” originally published on the second page of Kyūsei, Issue 50, February 18, 1950, was reprinted in the essays anthology for ministers Goshinsho: Shūkyōhen (Divine Writings: Volume on Religion), page 56, March 25, 1954. “Ga o Sare” has appeared previously in translation. Citation is given below for reference.

“Control Your Ego,” Foundation of Paradise, 1984, page 331.

“Control Your Ego,” Teachings of Meishu-sama, Volume Three, 2005, page 14.