EMA Meaning and
Definition
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Ema is a term derived from the Japanese language, primarily used to refer to small wooden plaques or tablets that are traditionally found in Shinto shrines throughout Japan. These tablets are usually rectangular in shape and are made from cypress wood. Ema are an important element in Shinto religious practices and are often used as a means of communication with the kami, or divine spirits, in the Shinto faith.
The purpose of ema is for individuals to write their wishes, prayers, or gratitude on them and hang them up in designated areas within the shrine. It is believed that by doing so, one's message will be received by the kami and the wishes may be granted. Common wishes found on ema include prayers for health, success in academics or business, and protection for loved ones.
Ema often feature vividly colored illustrations on their front side, depicting various symbols and motifs that hold significance in Japanese culture, such as animals, flowers, or mythical creatures. These images are intended to communicate the nature of the prayer or its purpose to the kami. On the reverse side of the ema, the individual writes their message in either Japanese characters or occasionally in a foreign language.
Overall, ema are both a spiritual and cultural tradition in Japan, embodying the hopes and aspirations of individuals seeking a connection with the divine.
Common Misspellings for EMA
Etymology of EMA
The word "Ema" originated from the Japanese language. "Ema" (絵馬) is a combination of two characters: "e" (絵), meaning "picture" or "painting", and "ma" (馬), meaning "horse". The term "Ema" literally translates to "picture horse" or "painted horse". In the context of Japanese culture, Ema refers to wooden tablets on which people write their wishes or prayers and hang at Shinto shrines. The name reflects the traditional practice of painting a picture of a horse on these tablets, as the horse was considered a sacred animal. Over time, the term "Ema" has become widely recognized and used outside of Japan to refer to these votive tablets.
Similar spelling words for EMA
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