SACRED SHINTO SYMBOLS
Torii Gate (meaning bird perch):
Traditionally made of wood or stone, the Torii Gates are gateways to Shinto shrines and designate holy ground. Torii Gates mark the boundary between the physical and spiritual worlds and is usually the only indication that you are entering a shrine. To summon the spirits, it is a custom to clap three times and bow three times before entering through the gate.
Hamaya
Braided bamboo arrows which symbolise the representation of the struggle against bad and evil luck. Gold Hamaya symbolise good luck and are believed to kill inner demons.
Ofuda
Charms or scriptures which provide security for a family. Sold at Shinto shrines, they are believed to bring the bearer and his/her family good luck as well as safety and other promises written on the scripture or charm.
Daruma Dolls
A hollow and round doll modelled to look like Bodhidharama, an Indian monk. It is a traditional custom for the owner to create a life goal and paint one eye and when the owner has completed the goal, they paint the other eye. It’s a positive and motivational tool used to help people focus on achieving their goals.
These symbols of Shintoism indicate the existence of good and bad luck and the struggles of human life. Shintoists believe in good and bad luck to be like good and bad spirits. Demons exist in the religion with the purpose of these symbols to fight bad spirits and demons and to also highlight the good spirits that do exist.
Traditionally made of wood or stone, the Torii Gates are gateways to Shinto shrines and designate holy ground. Torii Gates mark the boundary between the physical and spiritual worlds and is usually the only indication that you are entering a shrine. To summon the spirits, it is a custom to clap three times and bow three times before entering through the gate.
Hamaya
Braided bamboo arrows which symbolise the representation of the struggle against bad and evil luck. Gold Hamaya symbolise good luck and are believed to kill inner demons.
Ofuda
Charms or scriptures which provide security for a family. Sold at Shinto shrines, they are believed to bring the bearer and his/her family good luck as well as safety and other promises written on the scripture or charm.
Daruma Dolls
A hollow and round doll modelled to look like Bodhidharama, an Indian monk. It is a traditional custom for the owner to create a life goal and paint one eye and when the owner has completed the goal, they paint the other eye. It’s a positive and motivational tool used to help people focus on achieving their goals.
These symbols of Shintoism indicate the existence of good and bad luck and the struggles of human life. Shintoists believe in good and bad luck to be like good and bad spirits. Demons exist in the religion with the purpose of these symbols to fight bad spirits and demons and to also highlight the good spirits that do exist.