The life of Christ has many parallels to the life of the Buddha, and many of the brightest lights in antiquity have uncovered the seed of Enlightenment in the Buddhist manner (Stein 9). The accounts from the Bible of Christ going into the wilderness of the desert is akin to Gautama Siddhartha sitting under the Bodhi tree, and monks sequestering themselves in the wilderness for a time of testing. Some historians and philosophers speculate that the historical figure of Jesus of Nazareth traveled in his youth (during the period that is unknown of his life) seeking out the wisdom traditions of the day. During his travels he could have met many teachers, and learned many esoteric teachings. The wisdom of ancient teachings coupled with his innate compassion may have led to his uncovering of the latent power to heal in all beings who have connected with the source of all creation (Stein 10). .
Seeking answers, Usui travelled from Japan to America to discourse with the scholars of Christianity and Buddhism. After seven years of inquiry, he found no route uncovered through American Christians. Usui began studying at the University of Chicago Divinity School, and sought clues to healing as he earned his Doctor of Theology degree. On his quest, Usui learned to read Sanskrit, and this would prove to be the most helpful key for unlocking this mystery. Sanskrit is the language that ancient India and Tibet used to record divine revelation and earthly wisdom. The term 'perennial wisdom' refers to truths that transcend boundaries of religion, race, creed, and even time. Usui studied perennial wisdom present in all religions present in the entirety of history in hopes of uncovering the vein sustaining all authentic truth. He believed this vein would lead to power that would transcend all limitations of the flesh, unlocking the full potential of his being. Finding little assistance in America, Usui returned to Japan to live as a Buddhist monk in a Zen monastery for the rest of his life (Stein 9).
