Reiki, an energy healing modality that originated in Japan in the early 20th century, depends on the transmission of healing abilities from master to student. When you first learn reiki, a master uses a protocol called an "attunement" to connect you to the healing energies of reiki so that you can draw on them any time. A "grand master" is a term used by some reiki schools or lineages to indicate an advanced practitioner who can attune people into the master level.
Definition
Most reiki schools require you to undergo several levels of reiki training, called "degrees," to attain the master level. In most reiki lineages, someone who has been a master for a long time and knows you well must decide if it is appropriate for you to become a master. Until the late 1980s, this decision was solely the responsibility of a grand master, according to Walter Lubeck, founder of the Reiki-Do Institute in Hamelin, Germany, and author of "Reiki: Way of the Heart."
Responsibilities
A grand master might offer seminars or workshops to help reiki masters keep their knowledge base refreshed and current. A grand master is often the most experienced reiki master in the school and is responsible for maintaining the standard of healing offered by practitioners who train there. Lubeck notes that because most reiki schools encourage practitioners to explore their relationship with reiki on their own, loyalty to the grand master often depends on people's respect for her as a person.
Controversy
The designation of "grand master" was not part of the traditional Japanese reiki teachings, but was introduced by the Reiki Alliance in 1983, as part of reiki's migration to the West, according to the website Alternative Therapies. Not all lineages or schools use it. Many higher-level reiki practitioners simply choose to go by the name of "master" rather than "grand master." Some people in the reiki community view the term "grand master" with derision. A grand master is "anyone who proclaims him/herself to be one," according to Alternative Therapies.
Considerations
When choosing a reiki teacher, your best bet is to pick someone whose healing abilities are worthy of your respect and with whom you feel compatible. Before you sign up for a reiki class or workshop, go for a treatment with your prospective teacher. Anyone who claims to be able to attune you to reiki should be able to offer you a strong and concrete healing experience. As you consider whether or not to learn reiki, listen closely to your inner voice. Before you commit to a class, make sure that the connection feels right to you, advises Reiki.Org. Whether a reiki teacher calls himself "master," "grand master" or simply "teacher" is much less important than his abilities and approach to teaching.
Perspectives
Ultimately, "master" is simply another name for teacher, advises Lawrence Ellyard, director of the International Institute for Reiki Training and author of "Reiki Healer: A Complete Guide to the Path and Practice of Reiki." Especially in the West, where such terms tend to carry some emotional baggage, some people might use the titles of "master" or "grand master" to intimidate students. In the healing arts, remember that respect must be a two-way street between teacher and student.
Member Comments