Shikinen Sengu is a ceremonial event held at Ise Jingu, where shrine buildings and sacred treasures are newly reconstructed, and the deities are transferred to these new structures. This tradition takes place approximately every 20 years and has a history spanning over 1300 years.
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Purpose of the Ceremony
Shikinen Sengu serves several important purposes:
Maintaining a Sacred Environment: By transferring the deities to new buildings, the sacred precincts are kept pure, symbolizing the eternal youth of the deities.
Transmission of Skills: It functions as a means of passing down traditional architectural and craftsmanship skills to the next generation.
Harmony with Nature: The cycle of renewal aligns with the natural cycles, expressing gratitude to nature through the alternation of old and new.
The Shikinen Sengu Process
The Shikinen Sengu process involves detailed planning and rituals over approximately eight years:
Planning and Construction: The new shrine buildings are constructed using specific sacred wood, following traditional methods.
Transfer Ceremony: A solemn ceremony where the deity’s spirit is moved from the current shrine to the new shrine.
Associated Festivals: Various festivals celebrate the completion of the new shrine, deepening community bonds.
Cultural and Religious Significance
Shikinen Sengu holds profound cultural and religious significance beyond the act of rebuilding. It honors harmony with nature and enhances the spirituality of the community. It is also crucial for preserving traditional architectural and craftsmanship skills, recognized as part of Japan’s intangible cultural heritage.
World Heritage Registration
Ise Jingu is not registered as a World Heritage site due to its unique characteristics. World Heritage criteria typically cover historical structures or natural environments that remain unchanged. The practice of reconstructing buildings every 20 years does not align with these criteria.
Conclusion
The Shikinen Sengu of Ise Jingu is more than just a rebuilding of structures; it renews Shinto faith, contributes to cultural and technical heritage, and is a national event attracting visitors from Japan and around the world. The next Shikinen Sengu is scheduled for 2043.
