Sacred fire at Shinto shrine : Omamori
Originally uploaded by joka2000.
Small personal tablet or amulet (omamori) on which is written the name of a deity and distributed to worshipers by shrines. Made of wood, paper, or metal, the o-mamori is regarded as the symbol of the god and worn constantly on the person for divine protection.
After one year use, it is our custom to return this to Shinto shrine. Usually, from January 1st to 3rd, torches of sacred fire, are lit for the worshipers visiting at the end of the old and the beginning of the new year.
Omamori will be burned in this sacred fire and we will get another one.
Shrine in New Year: You can see your futures!
Shrine in New Year: You can see your futures!
Originally uploaded by joka2000.
The shrines are providing Omikuji (written oracle), and many people will pick a lot to tell their fortunes. After reading the Omikuji, they tie them on the trees or ropes.
