茅の輪潜り · ちのわくぐり · ritual

chinowa-kuguri

Ritual of passing through a chigaya-grass ring.

Definition

Chinowa-kuguri is a Shinto purification ceremony where participants pass through a large circular ring made of chigaya grass. This act symbolizes the cleansing of impurities and protection from misfortune. It is typically performed during festivals, especially during the summer months, and is associated with themes of renewal and vitality. The practice is rooted in ancient traditions and reflects the Shinto belief in the imposition of physical forms to represent spiritual concepts.

Etymology

The term 'chinowa' (茅の輪) denotes the chigaya grass ring, while 'kuguri' (潜り) means 'to pass through'.