Hatsumode - First Shrine Visit of the Year
Hatsumode - First Shrine Visit of the Year
Scene Description
Families and individuals visit a local shrine on a peaceful New Year's afternoon. At the purification fountain, they rinse their hands and mouths before heading to the main hall for worship. The atmosphere is serene and respectful, with fluttering omikuji (fortunes), hanging ema (wooden plaques), and children asking questions about prayers.
Natural Expressions in the Scene
At the Purification Fountain
• 「まず左手、次に右手」 (Mazu hidarite, tsugi ni migite) - “First left hand, then right hand”
• 「口をすすいで」 (Kuchi wo susaide) - “Rinse your mouth”
• 「お清めしてから」 (Okiyome shite kara) - “After purification”
At the Main Hall
• 「二礼二拍手一礼」 (Nirei nihakushu ichirei) - “Two bows, two claps, one bow”
• 「今年もよろしくお願いします」 (Kotoshi mo yoroshiku onegaishimasu) - “Please take care of us this year too”
• 「家族の健康をお願いします」 (Kazoku no kenkou wo onegaishimasu) - “Please grant health to my family”
• 「ありがとうございました」 (Arigatou gozaimashita) - “Thank you very much”
Family Conversations
• 「静かにお参りしようね」 (Shizuka ni omairi shiyou ne) - “Let’s pray quietly”
• 「手を合わせて」 (Te wo awasete) - “Put your hands together”
• 「何をお願いしたの？」 (Nani wo onegai shita no?) - “What did you pray for?”
Cultural Points and Expression Background
“Okiyome” - Purification Before Worship
This is not just about hygiene, but a spiritual cleansing to prepare oneself before entering a sacred space. It reflects the Japanese sense of purity and respect for tradition.
Politeness Toward Deities
Using respectful language such as 「お願いします」 (onegaishimasu) and 「ありがとうございました」 (arigatou gozaimashita) reflects the Japanese value of showing humility and gratitude even to gods.
“Nirei Nihakushu Ichirei” - The Ritual Sequence
This formalized sequence—two bows, two claps, one bow—helps people calm their mind and show unity in prayer, providing structure and mindfulness to the act of worship.
Family-Based Participation
Hatsumode is more about family bonding and cultural transmission than individual faith. It’s an opportunity for parents to naturally pass on cultural values to children through shared practice.
Content of Prayers
Unlike self-centered wishes, most people pray for family health and peace, reflecting Japan’s collectivist values and concern for the community’s well-being.
コメント
コメントを投稿