334 Wash Away the Stains

“Wash Away the Stains”

The world of the gods is a mysterious sanctuary
That rejects all impure things.

Our world is filled with shame and disgrace.
When we worship, we must first rid ourselves
Of our impurities.

Our bodies become unclean, and so do our souls.

In Shinto, we clean our bodies
With ritual bathing to purify ourselves.
The simple version of this is the chōzuya* found at shrines.

The stains of the mind can be washed away by introspection.
Look back over your thoughts, words, and deeds,
And if you feel ashamed, be honest and confront yourself.

This is the way to remove all impurities from your mind and body.

The gods value propriety and a devout attitude,
But they do not allow the irreverent.
With our foolish and unclean hearts,
We cannot comprehend their ways.

Be humble and respectful before the gods.
Hold modesty in your heart when you pray.
Only the most pure hopes and wishes
Will reach the heavenly world, Takamagahara.

*Chōzuya are small washing stations found at shrines, where visitors can clean their hands and rinse their mouths.