Ways of worshipping and shinto ceremonies in ancient japan
The Shinto festivals are mainly for celebrating the New Year, childbirth, coming of age, planting and harvest, and weddings, or other positive events, as the Shinto do not like to bring bad lack into the religion. Many national holidays in modern Japan are Shinto in origin. Shinto shrines hold regular festivals, “matsuri”, to remember important dates and to pray for matters such as rice harvests, fertility, health, and business success. The essential meaning of the term matsuri is “welcoming the descending gods”. There were countless festivals in Ancient Japan, ranging from public to private, local to national, and official to unofficial. These celebrations are an integral part of Japan’s Shinto traditions, and often include parades, music and dancing, theatrical performances, food and games, and the carrying of “mikoshi”(a portable shrine) throughout the streets. The most important festivals that the Shinto celebrates are perhaps New Years and Childbirth.
|
“Hatsumode” “means first shrine visit of the New Year”. This is where one expresses gratitude for blessings and protection in the coming year. Usually, the Shinto priest gives a short talk, and then welcomes all to share a small cup of sake (rice wine), and bonfires are lit.
“Miyamairi” is the practice of christenings. In ancient times, parents and grandparents take the child to a shrine to express gratitude and ask shrine priests to pray for their baby’s good health and happiness.
The Ancient Japanese believed that constantly praying to, or worshipping the Kami was key to leading a happy life.
“Miyamairi” is the practice of christenings. In ancient times, parents and grandparents take the child to a shrine to express gratitude and ask shrine priests to pray for their baby’s good health and happiness.
The Ancient Japanese believed that constantly praying to, or worshipping the Kami was key to leading a happy life.