水乞い · みずごり · purification

mizugori

Cold-water ablution for ritual purification.

Definition

Mizugori is a traditional Shinto practice that involves immersing oneself in cold water as a form of purification. This practice is often performed in natural bodies of water, such as rivers and waterfalls, and is intended to cleanse both the body and spirit of impurities. It is a significant aspect of misogi, where the act of entering cold water symbolizes renewal and the removal of defilements. Mizugori is commonly practiced during the hot summer months and is believed to restore energy and vitality.

Etymology

The term 'mizugori' combines 'mizu' (水), meaning 'water', and 'gori' (乞い), which may signify 'to beg' or 'to request', indicating a plea for purification.