The omamori is a great Japanese amulet, which has been passed down from generation to generation for centuries. It is considered one of the most powerful, because it has been blessed by monks in Buddhist temples and shrines. And, they are meant for protection, good luck, and prosperity. Many people trust his powers and take him everywhere. Would you like to know a little more about this powerful talisman? Reading on.
When did omamori originate?
This type of Japanese amulet emerged in the 17th century and although in the past they were made of wood or paper, today they are made of fabric and shaped like a rectangular bag.
The bag, called omamori-bukuro, is normally brightly coloured silk and has the name of the shrine where it was purchased embroidered on the back. Inside, and always closed to view, we find a rectangular inscription that can be made of paper, cardboard or even a thin sheet of wood and that bears the name of the protector god for the occasion and a prayer written or blessed by a monk.
What is the power of omamori?
The omamori is believed to contain some of the borrowed power of the gods and that is why the talisman should be kept sealed and guarded within the cloth bag, as otherwise that power could escape and vanish. The power of protection and good luck is also acquired by the talisman through the rites and ceremonies performed by the temple monks who ask for the blessing of the gods.
That is why the bags were made with silk fabrics, as a symbol of respect for the sacred object of protection, since the silk thread is fine and resistant. The bags were commonly woven by Mikos, the temple priestesses, who made the omamori by hand and woven the figure of the gods into the bags with gold thread in respect of the deity who provided their protection.
What are the types of omamori that exist?
Although there are general omamori, who will protect us in general from any negative situation, there are also specific omamori, with their specific god who serves to protect us or help us in very concrete and specific situations. Some of the most common omamori are:
Good luck, fortune (kaiun)
It is a very general omamori, which simply seeks to give us an extra piece of good luck or fortune. It is perfect as a gift or for us, if we do not have specific requirements.
Keeping everything wrong (yakuyoke)
It is also a very general omamori and very similar to the previous one. But this works just the opposite, since it simply seeks to ward off all evil from our lives.
Happiness (shiawase)
This is an omamori that seeks to bring us happiness, neither more nor less. That’s nothing.
Road safety (kōtsū-anzen)
It is the perfect omamori for drivers and commuters, seeking to protect them from all kinds of accidents.
Money (kin’un)
Omamori talisman to earn money, in the broad sense of the word (raise your salary, make your business make more money, etc.)
Love (en-musubi)
Omamori to find a partner and for marriage, perfect for single people who want to find a partner or for couples who want to strengthen their love. In the first case they are normally sold individually, while in the second case they are usually sold two by two.
Childbirth without complications (anzan)
It is perfect for pregnant women, so they have a good pregnancy and a smooth delivery. Tradition has it that women who buy this item should place it close to the belly, so that it is also in contact with the foetus. Perfect gift for pregnant friends.
Success in studies (gakugyō-jōju)
Ideal for students, who are looking to give us luck in studies and exams. If we have a friend or acquaintance who faces a difficult test, this is the perfect gift.
Health (kenkō)
This omamori that protects us from diseases to ensure a life full of health.
Recovering health (byouki heyu)
Although the previous one is a generic omamori to continue living in health, this omamori is to recover quickly after an illness, an accident, etc. If we have a sick or recovering friend or acquaintance, this would be a perfect gift.
Prosperity in business (shōbai hanjō)
Omamori perfect to succeed in a business and thus take care of our work and financial situation.
Family health and wellness (kanai-anzen)
Omamori amulet to bring peace and prosperity to the family home and all its members.
Although omamori can last a lifetime under good conditions, it is common for them to be changed every year, since the effectiveness of their power can be reduced during their use in that year, so it is recommended to change it on the eve of the new year, to start the year in the best way and as renewed as possible.
It should be remembered that omamori are highly sacred objects and must be treated with respect at all times, so if you want to acquire a new one, you cannot discard the old one in the trash or anywhere, as that would be disrespectful and It would attract evil spirits, the old omamori must be brought to the shrines where the monks will burn them as a symbol of respect.
ALFA