Geppai 月拝 and Tsukimairi: A Japanese Ritual of Gratitude to the Moon

Geppai and Tsukimairi: A Japanese Ritual of Gratitude to the Moon

If the sun is the symbol of "Yang" energy, then the moon is a quiet, mystical presence embodying the power of "Yin." Since ancient times, people have marked the passage of time by the waxing and waning of the moon, holding its soft light in reverent awe. "Geppai" or "Tsukimairi" is a beautiful and long-standing Japanese custom of visiting one's local guardian shrine or another deeply respected shrine, particularly on the first and fifteenth day of each month. The purpose of this visit is to offer gratitude for the month that has passed safely and to pray for peace during the coming half-month.


History and Background

The custom of Tsukimairi is deeply connected to the old lunisolar calendar, which was based on the movements of the moon. The first day of the month, or "Tsuitachi," marked the new moon and was seen as a day of rebirth and new beginnings as the moon began to wax. The fifteenth day, the full moon, was considered a day of fulfillment and gratitude when lunar energy reached its peak. For the Japanese people, who lived in harmony with the rhythms of nature, visiting a shrine on these pivotal days was an exceedingly natural way to express their thanks.

Furthermore, Tsukimairi serves as an important opportunity to regularly reflect upon and reset one's state of mind. It is a practice believed to wash away the unseen sediment of the heart that accumulates amid the bustle of daily life, allowing one to greet the new half-month with a purified spirit. This repetition was thought to bring about spiritual stability and a tranquil life, acting as a quiet yet powerful form of spiritual detoxification for cultivating good fortune.


The Philosophy of Tsukimairi

The essence of Tsukimairi lies first and foremost in "gratitude" rather than "supplication." Before asking for anything, one first offers thanks to the gods, to one's ancestors, and to all of existence for having passed the previous month in safety.

This spirit of gratitude creates a cycle of positive energy. The act of searching for things to be thankful for allows one to notice the small joys present in daily life, building a foundation for living each day with a fulfilled heart. Then, by standing before the divine with a refreshed spirit and joining one's hands in prayer, one can reaffirm their path and goals, receiving new vitality to move forward. Even when you have a specific wish, it is considered proper etiquette to first offer thanks and compose your heart before praying, as this is believed to forge a better connection with the divine.


The Practice of Tsukimairi

While there are no overly strict rules for Tsukimairi, the following are the basic steps for showing reverence to the gods and conveying your gratitude with a sincere heart.

  1. Visiting Days: The visits are based on the first and fifteenth day of each month. If you are unable to visit on those specific days, it is more important to continue the practice as you are able, such as once during the first half of the month and once during the second, rather than being too rigid about the dates.

  2. Choosing a Shrine: The most common choice is the shrine where your "Ujigami"—the guardian deity of the land where you live—is enshrined. It is said that by greeting your local Ujigami, your connection to the land deepens, allowing you to receive more powerful divine protection. Of course, any shrine that you personally revere is also perfectly suitable.

  3. Preparation: A shrine is a sacred place. While your attire need not be formal, it should be clean and respectful. To further focus your mind, you can lightly purify your hands with salt before leaving your home.

  4. Entering the Grounds: Before passing through the torii gate, pause and make a light bow. This serves as a greeting as you enter the divine realm. The center of the main path (sandō) is called the seichū, which is considered the walkway for the gods, so it is proper to walk slightly to the side.

  5. Purification at the Temizuya: Before praying, you must purify your hands and mouth.

    • Take the ladle (hishaku) in your right hand, scoop water, and pour it over your left hand to cleanse it.

    • Switch the ladle to your left hand and cleanse your right hand.

    • Switch the ladle back to your right hand, pour water into the palm of your left hand, and use that water to rinse your mouth.

    • Cleanse your left hand one more time, and finally, tilt the ladle so the remaining water runs down and cleanses the handle before returning it to its place.

  6. Worship at the Haiden (Hall of Worship): The basic manner of prayer before the altar is "Nihai-Nihakushu-Ippai" (Two Bows, Two Claps, One Bow).

    • First, gently place your offering in the offertory box and ring the bell if there is one.

    • Perform two deep bows (nihai).

    • Bring your hands together at chest level, slide your right hand down slightly, and clap twice (nihakushu).

    • After clapping, align your fingertips and, in your heart, first convey your gratitude for the past month. Then, silently offer your vows or wishes for the coming month.

    • Finally, perform one last deep bow (ippai).

  7. Leaving the Grounds: After you have passed back through the torii gate to leave the shrine grounds, turn back to face the main hall and make one final light bow.

Taking the time to consciously face the divine once or twice a month brings a sense of tranquility and elegance to a busy life. Entrusting yourself to the rhythm of nature, you can weave your days with a grateful heart. Tsukimairi is a beautiful and ancient Japanese art of inviting good fortune, allowing you to cultivate a calm and unwavering sense of luck with your own hands.

 

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