1. Introduction
Prayers before meals are a common practice in many cultures around the world, including Japan. In Japan, praying before eating is an important part of the culture and is seen as a way to show respect for the meal and those who prepared it. This article will explore the historical context of Japanese prayers before meals, the meaning behind them, how to perform a prayer, different types of prayers performed in Japan before meals, their significance, and why they are important in everyday life.
2. Historical Context of Japanese Prayers Before Eating
The practice of praying before meals has been part of Japanese culture since ancient times. It is believed that this custom originated from Shintoism, which is one of the oldest religions in Japan. In Shintoism, it was believed that all things had a spirit or god and that these gods should be thanked for providing food for humans. This belief has been passed down through generations and still remains part of the culture today.
3. The Meaning Behind Japanese Prayers Before Eating
The main purpose behind praying before meals in Japan is to show appreciation and gratitude for the food that has been provided and to thank those who have prepared it. It is also seen as a way to express thanks to nature for providing the ingredients used to make the meal. Additionally, it is believed that by praying before eating one can receive blessings from spirits or gods that will help make their meal more enjoyable and nutritious.
4. How to Perform a Japanese Prayer Before Eating
In order to perform a prayer before eating in Japan, one must first bow their head slightly with hands together at chest level as if they are about to pray or meditate. The person then recites words such as “itadakimasu” which translates roughly into “I humbly receive” or “I am grateful” followed by “gochisousama desu” which means “thank you for this feast” or “thank you for your hospitality” depending on who prepared the meal. After this prayer has been said everyone can then begin eating their meal with no further ceremony required.
5. Different Types of Prayers Performed in Japan Before Eating
There are several different types of prayers performed in Japan prior to eating a meal depending on where you are located and what type of cuisine you are eating:
• For traditional Japanese cuisine such as sushi or tempura: “Itadakimasu” (I humbly receive)
• For Chinese cuisine: “Gokurosama” (Thank you very much)
• For Western cuisine: “Arigatou Gozaimasu” (Thank you very much)
• For Buddhist cuisine: “Omizuwokudasai” (Please give me water)
• For Shinto cuisine: “Kami-sama ni Arigatou Gozaimasu” (Thank God).
6. Significance of the Meal and the Blessings Received from Praying
Praying before meals not only shows respect for those who have prepared it but also has spiritual significance as well; by saying these words one can receive blessings from gods or spirits which will make their meal more enjoyable as well as nutritious. Additionally, it serves as an opportunity for families or groups of people to come together in unity prior to starting their meal; this helps create an atmosphere conducive towards good conversation during dinner time which can lead to better relationships between family members or friends over time.
7.Why Japanese Prayers are Important in Everyday Life
Japanese prayers before meals serve multiple purposes both spiritually and socially; not only do they show respect towards those who have prepared your food but they also provide an opportunity for families or groups of people to come together prior to starting their meal which helps create an atmosphere conducive towards good conversation during dinner time leading to better relationships between family members or friends over time; additionally they provide spiritual benefits such as receiving blessings from gods/spirits which can make your meal more enjoyable and nutritious overall making them an important part of everyday life in Japan!
8.Conclusion
In conclusion, praying before meals is an important part of Japanese culture that has been practiced since ancient times; its main purpose being showing appreciation towards those who have prepared your food while also receiving spiritual benefits such as blessings from gods/spirits making your meal more enjoyable and nutritious overall making them an integral part of everyday life!
9.Sources
1) https://www3jrefcom/articles/japanese-prayer-before-mealhtml 2) https://wwwjapantimescojp/life/2008/09/23/language/the-meaning-behind-itadakimasu/#a 3) https://wwwjapansocietyorg/briefing-paper/the-role-of-food-in-japanese-culture
Why do Japanese always say itadakimasu?
Itadakimasu is a way to thank and honor everyone involved in making your meal – from the cooks who prepare it to the farmers who prepare the actual wheat husks and mushrooms.
How do you respond to itadakimasu?
Itadakimasu/Gochisousama desu Standard appetizer The phrase Itadakimasu comes from the verb itadaku. Eat and take is a modest way of saying. The person preparing the meal will answer Douzomeshiagare which means help yourself.
What does itadakimasu mean in Japanese?
Itadakimasu literally means to get something. The Japanese usually say itadakimasu before picking up chopsticks and digging into the food. Itadakimasu honors the life of food and the people who cook it.
What do Japanese say at the end of a meal?
Say I accept when you start eating but when you finish eating dont forget to say Eid-sama again in return. It was a feast as the word feast refers to a sumptuous meal.
What do you say when you leave a restaurant in Japan?
gochisosama deshita
Instead, it is polite to say gochisosama deshita (thank you for the meal) when leaving.
Should I reply irasshaimase?
General Greeting When you enter the restaurant and shop you will hear all the staff say rasayamase to greet the customers. Dont worry the staff will not expect any response but you can nod and smile and say thank you.
