Mokichi Okada (1882–1955)
Mokichi Okada (1882–1955) was a Japanese thinker who wanted a peaceful and happy world for everyone.
He spoke about a new kind of society. He believed we should not separate East and West, or faith and science. He also believed that the heart and daily life both matter, and they should grow together in balance. He called this ideal a “world of beauty.”
Okada believed a better world starts close to home. He hoped more people could build a beautiful home life—one with less illness, less money trouble, and less conflict. He valued gratitude, kind words, and good actions, because he believed they shape our relationships and our everyday life.
To support this goal, he focused on three areas of everyday life: health, farming, and beauty.
Three Key Areas
- Health: Johrei (a practice using the hands)
- Farming: Nature Farming (respect nature, learn from how nature works, and use the soil’s natural power)
- Beauty: Seeing beauty can lift the heart (museums and arts)
Health (Johrei)
Okada introduced Johrei, a practice using the hands. Many people describe it as a way to calm the mind and body and help a person feel better. Some also see it as a practice that helps them reflect on their inner life.
Farming (Nature Farming)
Okada shared Nature Farming, which respects nature and learns from how nature works. It aims to work with the soil’s natural power, rather than forcing quick results. Many people feel that caring for the soil also teaches patience, gratitude, and respect for nature.
Beauty (Arts and Museums)
Okada believed that beauty can lift the heart. He valued art and cultural spaces where people can experience beauty in daily life. This is why museums and the arts are often connected with his vision, including the MOA Museum of Art and the Hakone Museum of Art.
Okada’s writings and talks cover many topics, such as gratitude, the mind, and the unseen side of life. This website introduces his essays and talks in a simple way, so readers can learn step by step and find ideas that may help themselves, their families, and their communities.