Foreign Friday
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| Shinto Shrine southern Japan April 1980 |
The thick rope hanging in the archway is called shimenawa and is woven from rice straw. The white paper, hanging from the rope is called shide. The rope signifies a sacred or holy space.
Believers would approach the shrine, throw a coin into offertory box, then summon God to the shrine by pulling on the long rope suspended in the middle. Believers then bow twice and make a wish with their heart, clap twice, and bow deeply once more.
The rope is amazing and I notice how much thicker it is in the center section. A work of art even though it is such simple. What an interesting place.
ReplyDeleteAn interesting ritual. The rope is quite impressive.
ReplyDeleteGood wishes to you this weekend, Nancy!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful tradition. Love this
ReplyDeleteSimply beautiful!
ReplyDeleteI love the varied traditions that aren't so different after all. My church as a rope and bell. Maybe I can find the wedding photo of a groomsman ringing the bell... or pulling on the rope in the church if you prefer.
ReplyDeleteYour Friday postings give such a feel for the countries you visited. Excellent job!
ReplyDeleteThe rope is amazing, thanks for linking to it. I love learning about things I have not seen before.
ReplyDelete