Hakushu

Hakushu (拍手) refers to the ceremonial clapping practice in Shinto, also known as "Kashiwade."[1] This form of clapping is quiet and gentle, and unlike western applause.[2]

Its origin is unknown. Some people think it holds a Buddhist meaning where the right hand symbolizes Buddha, and the left hand represents all beings, thus signifying the unity of Buddha and all beings.[3]

Due to Shinbutsu-shūgō the origins of this practice are unclear. Shinto and Buddhism have been together so long that many things could come from either.[4] The origin must be ancient though as it is found in the Wajinden describing the Yayoi rituals.[5]

This tradition can be observed in martial arts like Aikido[6][7] and Bujinkan today.[8]

References
  1. "Encyclopedia of Shinto詳細". 國學院大學デジタルミュージアム (in Japanese). Retrieved 2023-03-11.
  2. "Kashiwade (Ceremonial Clapping)". issuu. Retrieved 2023-02-16.
  3. "Why are the hands clapped when praying at shrines (Shintoism) and placed together when praying at temples (Buddhism)? Online Atlas english school. Teaching jobs in Osaka,Sapporo,Yokohama,Nagoya,Kyoto,Kobe". atlasp.net. Retrieved 2023-02-12.
  4. "Why do some Japanese people clap their hands when they pray for something at the temple?". GoWithGuide by Travelience. 2013-04-14. Retrieved 2023-02-12.
  5. https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/%E9%AD%8F%E5%BF%97%E5%80%AD%E4%BA%BA%E4%BC%9D
  6. "Hakushu - Culturesmith". culturesmith.com. Retrieved 2023-02-16.
  7. dontmakemeangrymrmcgee (2015-07-06). "Shinto Clapping and Aikido". dontmakemeangrymrmcgee. Retrieved 2023-02-16.
  8. "拍手 Hakushu: The Sound of Ninjas Clapping ?". INFOS BUJINKAN. 2011-07-01. Retrieved 2023-02-16.
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