穢れ · けがれ · purification

kegare

Impurity or defilement within Shinto.

Definition

Kegare represents the concept of impurity or defilement in Shinto, often associated with death, illness, or unclean actions. It signifies that certain states or actions create a barrier between individuals and the kami. The awareness of kegare underlies the various purification rituals in Shinto, designed to restore spiritual and natural balance by removing these impurities.

Etymology

The term 'kegare' implies dishonor or uncleanliness, emphasizing its adverse spiritual effects.