New Year Greetings from Shao Shan Temple!
These individually made cards are sent to those who practice at the temple regularly and some are also available to pick up at the temple.
Each year a different greeting message is selected by Taihaku-san. 2016's greeting is "sen ni shitagatte" or "adhere to the line".
Below is a description of the New Year's greetings:
OFUDA
Prayer Tablet
At the New Year, it is a Japanese temple tradition to
present people affiliated with the temple an Ofuda (Prayer Tablet). These Ofuda are an expression of the temple’s
deep wishes and dedication to the welfare of the community. They carry the force of intention and
practice into the homes of the community and form a bridge and doorway between
the temple and everyday practice. They
are prayers, in solid form, for your well being and fruitful deepening in the
Way; a living expression of mutual
connection. These Ofuda have been placed
on the temple’s altar during the December 8 day Rohatsu intensive practice,
where they are charged with the great power of faith and courage. Traditionally, people mount or place the Ofuda
in their home for the duration of the upcoming year to bring their household
peace and protection.
May peace and blessings extend from your home to the
wider world in the upcoming year.
