The meaning and decoration of Shimekazari: Beauty as a barrier
The meaning and display of Shimekazari: Beauty as a barrier
As the end of the year approaches, the air in the city seems to gradually become clearer. While people's footsteps become less hectic, a sense of tranquility begins to flow. During this season, "shimekazari" decorations quietly appear in our lives.
Shimenawa, or sacred ropes hung at entrances and gates, are not just New Year's decorations. They serve as a barrier that marks the boundary between the visible and the invisible, and have protected the lives and spirit of the Japanese people since ancient times.
New Year's decorations as a barrier
A "kekkai" is a boundary line that separates the sacred realm from the secular world. Shrine torii gates, temple gates, and teahouse entrances are all examples of kekkai. Shimekazari decorations create these small kekkai in the places where we live. They create a pure space to welcome the New Year deity, and at the same time, they play a role in warding off disaster and impurity.
The materials used for shimekazari also have meaning. Rice straw is a symbol of bountiful harvests. Urajiro (back white) represents purity and longevity, and daidai (orange) represents a wish for prosperity for generations to come. Shide (paper streamers) symbolize thunder and are said to have the power to ward off evil spirits. The way these are tied together truly embodies the culture of "must-knots."
Where to display it and its meaning
Shimekazari are displayed in places that are considered "boundaries" within the home, such as the entrance. This is the front line that separates the inside from the outside world, and is the most important place to welcome the New Year deity.
Small shimekazari decorations are also placed on household altars, alcoves, kitchens, toilets, etc. These are used to purify and protect places where sacred beings reside or where impurities are likely to enter.
Generally, December 28th is considered auspicious for decorating. The 29th is avoided as it is associated with "suffering," and the 31st is considered rude as it is "one-night decoration." The 28th or 30th are the most peaceful choices.
The basics of decoration and WABISUKE's arrangements
Shimekazari should be displayed at the top center of the entrance door, slightly above eye level. Use double-sided tape or a hook to secure it in place. Paying attention to the details, such as making sure the paper streamers are oriented correctly and the oranges are not about to fall, will help convey your warm welcome more carefully.
WABISUKE offers "Shimekazari with space" that respects traditional designs while also fitting into modern life. For example, minimize the number of bundles of rice straw and tie them quietly with Japanese paper or hemp string. Instead of oranges, seasonal fruits or dried flowers can be added. This creates a Shimekazari that blends into the space while still exuding a dignified presence.
The act of "decorating" is not just decoration, but also "putting your mind in order." As you work with your hands, you reflect on the past year and pray for the coming year. Perhaps this time is the true essence of shimekazari.
The day when the Shimekazari decorations are removed and afterwards
Shimekazari decorations are removed after the end of the New Year period (January 7th in Kanto and January 15th in Kansai). After that, they are usually burned at a shrine's "Dondoyaki" or similar event. By putting them in the fire, the deity of the New Year is sent to heaven and gratitude is expressed.
If you don't have the opportunity to burn the items, you can also wrap them in white paper, purify them with salt, and then dispose of them. The important thing is to let go of them with gratitude. Being able to sense the presence that resides in things enriches our lives.
In conclusion, what shimekazari can teach us
Shimekazari is not just a traditional end-of-year decoration. It is the crystallization of the delicate sensibility of the Japanese people, who confront the invisible and create a "barrier" in their daily lives.
In the midst of our busy days, we stop and pick up a Shimekazari decoration, which is filled with reverence for nature, gratitude to our ancestors, and prayers for the new year.
At WABISUKE, we cherish this "spirit that resides in form" and continue to propose ideas that fit into modern life. We hope that through Shimekazari decorations, the beauty of a quiet boundary will come into your life as well.