Wakayama, Jan 29 (News On Japan) –
In the sacred precincts of Koyasan, positioned in Wakayama Prefecture, a bunch of monks and devotees have braved the chilly waters of the Tamagawa River for the normal observe of “Misogi” (purification ritual) amidst the winter chill.
The ritual, often called “Sanchu Mizugyo,” passed off close to Okunoin, the interior sanctuary of Koyasan, on the twenty eighth. Nine members, starting from their thirties to sixties, together with monks from the Koyasan Shingon sect and lay followers, gathered for the occasion. Clad in white robes and holding prayer beads, they submerged themselves as much as their waists within the river. Accompanied by the rhythmic clapping of picket blocks, they chanted sutras for roughly quarter-hour.
The water on the web site of the ritual was recorded at a frigid 0 levels Celsius on a close-by thermometer. Visitors to the location captured the second with their cameras, watching over the practitioners as they endured the chilly. After finishing the ritual, the pinnacle priest of Houjuin mirrored on the expertise: “This year, we have witnessed the earthquake on the Noto Peninsula. We performed the ritual in memory of those who lost their lives and with prayers for the swift recovery of those who are facing hardships.”
The observe of Sanchu Mizugyo is a testomony to the enduring non secular self-discipline of the Koyasan monks, and serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and dedication discovered throughout the group.
Source: NHK