Ninja Hand Yoga: KUJI-IN

Kuji-in is a term that refers to a set of esoteric hand gestures used in various Japanese esoteric spiritual practices, particularly within the realms of Buddhism, Shugendo, and Ninja traditions. The history of Kuji-in is shrouded in mystery and has evolved over time, blending elements of religious philosophy, mysticism, and martial arts.

The origins of Kuji-in can be traced back to ancient Indian and Chinese spiritual practices. These practices eventually made their way to Japan, where they merged with indigenous Shinto beliefs and Buddhist teachings, giving rise to unique esoteric traditions. One of the earliest mentions of the Kuji-in can be found in the “Rikujūkyū Shū” (Sixty-Nine Hands) manual, a text attributed to the legendary warrior and strategist Takeda Shingen, who lived during the 16th century.

In the esoteric context, Kuji-in involves a combination of hand seals, mantras (sacred chants), and visualization techniques. Practitioners believe that by performing specific hand gestures and reciting corresponding mantras, they can tap into cosmic energies, unlock inner potential, and achieve spiritual enlightenment. Each of the nine hand seals is associated with a particular element, planet, deity, or concept, and they are often used to invoke blessings, protection, and empowerment.

This course is your first initiation into Kuji-in.