The reason and meaning behind bowing in front of the torii gate

The Reason and Meaning Behind Bowing Before a Torii

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Shrines play an important role in Japanese culture and are revered by many as sacred spaces. The "Torii" standing at the entrance symbolizes the separation between the real world and the divine realm. Bowing before the Torii is an act of respect, signifying that you are about to enter a sacred place.

 

Bowing when passing through the Torii is not only a matter of etiquette but also has a spiritual significance, such as preparing your mind and showing respect to the gods. Especially when visiting a shrine for the first time, it serves as a good opportunity to adjust your posture and mindset. It is important to bow with the intention of conveying, "I am about to enter respectfully."

 

Basic Manners When Passing Through a Torii

When passing through a Torii, there are several manners to observe. These are forms of respect towards the special place that is the shrine and are widely accepted as part of Japanese culture. Below are the basic manners to follow when passing through a Torii.

 

1. Bow Before the Torii

When you stand in front of the Torii, first gently bow your head. This bow is to show respect to the gods. You do not need to bow deeply, but it is important to do so carefully and politely.

2. Walk on the Sides, Avoid the Center

When passing through the Torii, it is basic etiquette to avoid walking in the center. The central part of the Torii is called the "seichu" and is considered the path for the gods. Worshipers should show consideration for the gods by walking along the sides of the Torii. Even when it is crowded, following this rule demonstrates respect for both the gods and other worshipers.

3. Calm Your Mind

Before and after passing through the Torii, it is recommended to clear your mind of distractions and calm yourself. This is to recognize that the shrine is not just a tourist spot but a sacred place for prayer. When bowing, taking a deep breath to steady your feelings is beneficial.

Points to Be Careful of When Passing Through a Torii

For first-time visitors to a shrine or foreign tourists visiting for sightseeing, the manners related to the Torii can be confusing. Therefore, it is important to keep the following points in mind.

 

1. Remove Hats and Sunglasses

When bowing before the Torii, it is desirable to remove hats and sunglasses. This is also part of the etiquette towards the gods and a part of Japanese culture that shows respect to the other party (the gods).

2. Be Considerate When Taking Photos

While the Torii is a popular photo spot, be careful not to obstruct other worshipers when taking pictures. Additionally, avoid leaning against or touching the Torii.

3. Maintain a Quiet Attitude

When passing through the Torii, especially within the shrine grounds, avoid speaking loudly or laughing. This consideration helps maintain the overall atmosphere of the shrine.

The Shapes and Types of Torii

Torii can be seen at shrines all across Japan, but in reality, there are various differences in their shapes, colors, and materials. Each Torii has its own unique meaning and represents the characteristics of its respective shrine. Here are some of the representative types of Torii.

 

1. Myojin Torii

This is the most common shape of Torii and can be seen at many shrines. It features rounded pillars and crossbeams, giving it an elegant impression.

2. Shinmei Torii

This Torii is characterized by its simple design and can be seen at places like Ise Jingu. Its straight lines are said to preserve ancient styles.

3. Vermilion Painted Torii

Torii painted in vermilion are often seen at Inari shrines, including Fushimi Inari Taisha. This vermilion color is believed to have protective properties against evil.

The Process of Worship After Passing Through the Torii

Passing through the Torii is the first step of shrine worship, but the subsequent worship practices are also important. After passing through the Torii, follow the steps below to perform your worship.

 

1. Purify Yourself at the Temizuya

Purifying your hands and mouth at the Temizuya (water pavilion) is an important ritual to cleanse both body and mind. Use the ladle (hishaku) to perform the purification in the proper order.

2. Two Bowings, Two Claps, One Bowing at the Main Hall

Upon reaching the main hall, first bow deeply twice, then clap your hands twice, and finally bow deeply once more. This "two bowings, two claps, one bowing" ritual is common at many shrines.

3. Express Thanks and Wishes in Your Heart

Convey your requests and gratitude to the gods silently in your heart. It is important to pray quietly without speaking aloud.

Feeling the Japanese Spirit Through the Act of Passing Through the Torii

The seemingly simple act of passing through the Torii and bowing reflects the uniquely Japanese "spirit of respect" and "harmony with nature." This embodies the spirit of Shinto and is a value that remains important even in modern society.

 

When visiting a shrine, try not just to sightsee but to feel Japanese traditions and culture through the Torii. This bow acts like a small bridge connecting you and the gods. Next time you visit a shrine, make a heartfelt bow before the Torii. It will lead to a deeper worship experience.

 

 

Here\'s an explanation of the reasons and meaning behind bowing in front of a torii gate:

 

Bowing before a torii gate is a profound spiritual and cultural practice in Shinto tradition that carries deep symbolic significance:

 

Spiritual Boundary and Reverence
The torii gate serves as a sacred demarcation between the ordinary world and the divine realm. When you bow, you are showing profound respect to the kami (Shinto deities) and acknowledging that you are about to enter a spiritually significant space. This gesture symbolizes humility, spiritual preparation, and a recognition of the divine presence.

 

Ritual Purification
Bowing represents a moment of mental and spiritual cleansing. It is a deliberate act that helps practitioners transition from their everyday state of mind to a more reverent, focused spiritual mindset. By pausing to bow, individuals symbolically shed their mundane concerns and prepare themselves to enter a sacred space.

 

Traditional Etiquette and Respect
In Japanese cultural and religious practices, bowing is a fundamental expression of respect. The specific bow before a torii gate is typically a slight, measured gesture—about 15-30 degrees—that communicates mindfulness, courtesy, and spiritual awareness.

 

Gratitude and Connection
The bow can be understood as an expression of gratitude to the spiritual forces represented at the shrine. It is a physical manifestation of appreciation for the opportunity to connect with the sacred, acknowledging the unseen spiritual energies and showing respect for the traditional religious practices.

 

This ritual of bowing before a torii gate embodies the Japanese cultural values of spiritual sensitivity, respect, and the delicate relationship between the human and divine worlds.