禊払い · みそぎはらい · purification
misogi-harai
Ritual act of purification through water.
Definition
Misogi-harai is a Shinto purification practice that involves the use of water to cleanse oneself of ritual impurities. This practice can take various forms, including bathing in a river or using water in other purification rites. It is integral to both individual purification and the broader ritual scheme, facilitating a connection between the individual and the kami. Misogi-harai emphasizes the importance of physical and spiritual cleanliness and is often performed before participating in religious ceremonies.
Etymology
The term 'misogi' comes from the classical Japanese word for purification, while 'harai' denotes the act of sweeping away impurities.