Shinto, also known as "the way of the gods", is the traditional religion of Japan. It originated over 2,000 years ago and is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and tradition. Shinto venerates the deities, or kamis, who represent the forces of nature. Sacred symbols in the Shinto religion have great significance and importance, as they are seen as gateways between the physical and spiritual worlds. In this article, we'll explore the various sacred symbols of Shinto and their significance in this religion.
Torii
Torii are wooden or stone gates that mark the entrance to Shinto shrines. They have become one of the most emblematic symbols of Japan. Torii represent the passage from a material world to a spiritual world. They are seen as a separation between everyday life and the sacred area of the shrine. Originally from Japan, Torii were imported from China during the Nara period (710-794). Since then, they have been integrated into Japanese tradition and have become an important symbol in the Shinto religion.
Meaning and origin
The word Torii means "sieve piercing". Torii were designed to filter bad luck and evil spirits and let good energies through. The origin of the Torii is obscure, but it is assumed that its initial form was a rope or chain of straw wrapped around a tree. Then, this rope was transformed into a door with feet, and continued to develop into a wooden structure.
Use and importance in Shinto religion
Torii are often used as landmarks on pilgrimage routes and many tourist sites, including the famous shrine of Fushimi Inari in Kyoto. Torii are protective barriers, believed to protect the shrine from evil spirits, torrential rains and other natural phenomena. Torii are of great importance in the Shinto religion, as they are supposed to symbolize the transition between profane and sacred space, between the ordinary and the extraordinary.
The different types of Torii
There are different types of Torii. Large stone Torii are generally the oldest, while more recent ones are often made of lacquered red wood. Torii can also be classified according to their size, material, color and shape. Torii are often decorated with crests, banners and symbols of the Shinto religion.
The Kagura-den
The Kagura-den is the most important place of worship in the Shinto religion. It is intimately linked to Shinto celebrations. The Kagura-den is used for dance and music ceremonies featuring the veneration of kami and their interpretation of traditional Japanese aesthetics .
Meaning and origin
The Kagura-den is a building in which Shinto dance rituals and music are held. The word "Kagura" literally means "the music and dance of the gods". Kagura have played an important role in Shinto shrines for over 1,000 years. Kamis are believed to attend the dances and music performed in the Kagura-den.
Importance in celebrations and rituals
Kagura-den are used primarily for New Year celebrations and oshogatsu, the Japanese holiday festival during the New Year period. The dances and music of the Kagura represent the fulfillment and liberation of divinity, as well as prayers for prosperity and peace.
Decoration and construction
Kagura-den are generally built of wood and decorated with traditional Japanese motifs and figures of deities. The interior walls are made of matt tatami panels. Floors are covered with woven straw, known as tatami. In each Kagura-den, it is common to see a mirror, as it is supposed to reflect the respective image of the deity present.
The Jinja
Jinja is the term used for Shinto shrines, which are places of worship dedicated to the veneration of kami. Jinja come in different types, each dedicated to a specific Kami. Jinja are often regarded as divine houses or havens of peace.
Meaning and origin
The Jinja shrine is a place of worship where the faithful venerate the Kamis. The Kamis are supposed to be divine beings that can be found in nature, in everyday objects and in people. The Shinto religion believes that Kamis are the sources of life and prosperity in human existence and should be honored.
Features and operation
Jinja are built in harmony with the surrounding nature. The buildings often include a curved roof beam, called a chigi, which symbolizes the protection of structures against the elements. Jinja are often surrounded by a garden or stone courtyard, which should offer peace and tranquillity. Worshippers can also purify their bodies and spirits at the shrine's fountains before praying.
The different types of Jinja
Jinja can be divided into two main categories: Jinja kubi and Jinja shingi. Jinja kubi are the most common Shinto shrines and represent most of the Kamis worshipped in the Shinto religion. Jinja shingi are shrines that venerate Kamis dedicated to the mountains and the sea, as well as those associated with businesses or social activities.
Other symbols in Shinto
There are many other symbols in the Shinto religion. Here are just a few examples:
Tamagushi
Tamagushi are leaf-covered tree stems or branches, often used in Shinto religious ceremonies. Tamagushi are used to offer prayers and offerings to the Kamis, who are considered to live in nature.
Shimenawa
Shimenawa are sacred strings used in purification ceremonies in the Shinto religion. They are generally made at from braided rice straw stems and can be decorated in various ways, such as with bows or ribbons. Shimenawa are supposed to protect against evil spirits and impurities.
Omikuji
Omikuji are divinatory bills found in Shinto shrines . The bills are drawn at random and indicate fortune or misfortune for the coming year. Omikuji tickets are often found in Buddhist temples too.
Conclusion
Sacred symbols in the Shinto religion have great importance and significance for Shinto believers. Torii, Kagura-den and Jinjas are examples of Shinto symbols that are deeply rooted in Japanese culture and tradition. Through their function and symbolism, these symbols reflect the values and beliefs of the Shinto religion. Other symbols, such as tamagushi, Shimenawa and Omikuji, also have deep significance in the Shinto religion. Their use continues to nourish the faith and practice of Shinto believers.