The Rules of the Invisible World

The Rice Field Analogy

If we think of the invisible world as the soil of a rice field, then our physical world is like the rice plants growing above it. Because the rice plants are standing tall, we cannot see the exact shape of the ground beneath. But once they are harvested, the form of the terrain becomes clear. Though unseen, the ground beneath always exists.

In truth, 99.99% of the events occurring in our visible world are the results of the invisible world. For example, when people in the physical world are in conflict, it is because their ancestors are also in conflict. When we feel physical pain, it is because a spirit is suffering or crying out for help at that very place. It is the role of the living to resolve such karma through apology and offering, which is precisely what Kannon (the Bodhisattva of Compassion) hopes for.

One-Way Visibility

In the invisible world, the rule is: the higher can see the lower, but the lower cannot see the higher.

Gods ＞ Bodhisattvas (Kannon) ＞ Ancestors ＞ Descendants (the living)

This hierarchy determines what can be seen. From our position in the physical world, we cannot see the gods, bodhisattvas, or even our ancestors. That is why it is important to recognize: they are there. We place shrines, altars, and butsudan (Buddhist family altars) to remind ourselves of their presence.

It is not that we are incapable of receiving our ancestors’ thoughts. If we stay attuned and keep our spiritual antennae active, we can receive them. The presence of that heartfelt connection enables us to receive their messages—and it is our guardian spirits who help bridge this connection.

The Place Where We Die Is the Place We’re Reborn

Even after death, we continue to exist as spirits, because there is meaning in that existence. Life is granted by the gods, and so our soul is sustained by divine will.

If we pass away from a place given to us by the gods, then there is no problem. The level of our soul—our spiritual position—determines the level at which we are reborn. For instance, if someone dies on the third level, they will be reborn on the third level.

However, we unknowingly commit sins in our lifetime that lower our spiritual position. For example, entering a nursing home while still capable of physical movement, relying on others for meals and personal care—this too becomes a grave spiritual sin. Such behaviors unknowingly bring down one’s spiritual status.

To elevate one's spiritual position, the only path is through altruistic action—thinking of and acting for the growth of others. We can only ascend one step at a time, yet in some cases, one misstep (such as the example above) can drop us two levels at once. Altruistic action often involves hardship. It is when we face this hardship that the gods lend us their aid. We can only raise our spiritual status while alive. Learning and living out this truth is what it means to be truly alive.

Apology Must Come from the Living Descendants

We inherit not only the virtues of our ancestors, but also their karmic burdens. The apology for sins committed can only come from the living descendants. Therefore, others cannot apologize on our behalf. Only we—those born into the lineage—can apologize together with our ancestors. Without this act of apology, spirits cannot move forward. This is how strict the rules of the invisible world are.

From the perspective of those harmed, if someone unrelated apologizes, it may only reignite their rage. That is why apologizing together with one’s ancestors is so vital. Let us convey to them: “We have learned just how important it is to apologize alongside our ancestors.”

The Gods Assist Only in Altruism

The gods will never support selfish intentions. Even caring solely for one’s family still falls under selfish motives. The divine aid is given only to altruistic actions.

If Even One Day Is “×,” Then the Whole Week Is “×”

Suppose we evaluate a week: if from Sunday to Friday we lived with an altruistic mindset (○), but on Saturday acted selfishly (×), then the whole week would be considered ×. One moment of selfishness negates the rest.

When a Pet Passes Away

Animals also have a path of spiritual learning. Their cycle of reincarnation is ten times faster than that of humans. When a pet dies, return them to nature by burying their remains in a familiar place like the yard. If the family continues to grieve deeply, the pet’s spirit cannot move on. Once the family's grief naturally fades, the pet can progress to their next phase.

Wish for their spiritual growth and gently send them off. If the pet receives divine permission, they can wait for their owner’s arrival in the afterlife.