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Saturday
Jan022010

Protective Amulets

At each of the temples on the Saigoku route, it is possible to obtain amulets which bring protection or blessings of various kinds. These are called omamori and comprise a small satin brocade bag with a consecrated prayer or image of Kannon printed on a paper inside.Omamuri Omamori can be obtained for various purposes: for instance, success in study, protection during pregnancy, and so on. They can be purchased for a small fee from the temple shops and I can get you one of these if you like.

In addition, the temples sell goshuin, which are temple seals and are unique to each temple. A priest imprints a vermillion stamp upon a piece of paper, which transmits the spiritual charisma of that temple. He then writes a mantra in black ink with a traditional calligraphy brush. The completed pilgrim's book comprises goshuin from all 33 temples.

If you would like one of these temple stamps then I could get one for you.

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