Haraë: Forms of Purification

Haraë, ritual purification, is a central part of Shinto practice, and it takes many forms. This essay describes the most common ceremonies, and discusses their origins and significance. In this essay, haraë is divided into two broad types: haraë performed before approaching the kami, and haraë performed to cleanse pollution as an end in itself. From rinsing your hands before approaching the sanctuaries at a jinja to the most elaborate Ōharaë, purification is at the heart of Shinto.

Torii image © Dean Spencer, used with permission. All rights reserved.