 |
This might indeed be a good time for the year of the Ox, as those born under it's sign abhor risk and would not think well of living off credit cards or being in debt. While their patience, confidence, and leadership is admirable, they also tend to have big tempers and can be stubborn. |
 |
In the New Year are Kadomatsu; seen here are large ones outside shops. This traditional NewYear's Ikebana consists of pine (long life), bamboo (strong, sturdy-prosperity), and plum branches (patiently withstands cold-constancy). Other things may be added, but these three hold the symbolism.
The shimenawa rope is made by twisting together strands of rice straw. It is believed to keep evil and sickness away, so on New Year's day is also hung over doorways on homes. New Year, starts off with prayer, Hatsumode, not noise and parties. It is the first visit of the year to a shrine or temple or church. Often the whole family goes together, or a group of friends, or a person may even go alone. At the shrine a person can put money in the offering box & say a prayer. Theycan buy good luck charms (on the right) or receive a fortune (left) on a tiny paper which can be ties to a tree. Services at the Kitano-Kobe Central Catholic church (below) include a Mass and visit to the creche (statues representing the birth of Christ and the shepherds.) From a reading at the Mass: "God has given us his Son Jesus through the Virgin Mary. With God's Son we have become the sons and daughters of God." |
 |
 |
 |
|
 |
  |
|
|
