Omamori - Japanese amulet

Omamori is the name of the lucky charms that are often offered at temples throughout Japan. Omamori symbolizes the Shinto deities, which are meant to bring protection and good luck to the amulet holder.

May 10, 2022 - 12:11
Feb 16, 2024 - 10:59
Omamori - Japanese amulet

An omamari, usually the size of a palm, made of paper or wood, with wishes written on it for the client to keep the charm; and kept in a brocade bag, embroidered with the name of the temple or temple you ask for.

There are many types of Omamori with all shapes and colors, Each amulet represents a protection, such as:

  • Amulet of Peace:  Kanai Anzen (Protection of health against diseases, and longevity)
  • Travel Safety Charm:Kōtsū Anzen (protects drivers and travelers),
  • Love charm: En-musubi (for  singers and couples seeking love)
  • Learning charm: gakugyo-joju (学業成就)  It is said that the learning charm gakugyo-joju (学業成就)
  • Fortune charm: Shōbai Hanjō (May success in business and fortune)…
  • Amulet to ward off evil spirits and demons: yaku-yoke (厄除)  This type of amulet is yaku-yoke (厄除).
    With charms in your body, evil spirits and bad omens will not dare to approach you. Today's amulets are beautifully made with striking colors, delicately embroidered with the shape of items to carry with you such as cards, keychains, wooden pieces for backpacks, bicycles or for wearing as jewelry accessories …

The talisman will be an item attached to the client and will only benefit the amulet holder. It is said that you should not open the amulet, then the protection and luck will "fly" away.

Omamori lucky charms are often invited to give to relatives and friends as a good wish on anniversaries, especially the new year.

A good luck charm never runs out of life, but its keeper should replace them every year, as a way to receive good luck in the new year. The most taboo thing is not to throw it in the trash, it is disrespectful to the gods. Old amulets should be returned to the temple where they were purchased for disposal.

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