Omamori (御守りorお守り), or ofuda are Japanese amulets dedicated to particular Shinto deities as well as Buddhist figures. The word omamori means "honorable protector" and they enclose papers or pieces of wood with prayers written on them, and are supposed to bring good luck to the bearer on particular occasions, tasks or ordeals. Omamori are also used to ward off bad luck and are often spotted on bags, in cars, etc. for saftey in travel. Many omamori are specific in design to the location they were made.
They often describe on one side the specific area of luck or protection they are intended for and have the name of the originating shrine or temple on the other. Generic omamori exist, but most of them cover a single area: health, love, and studies, to name only a few. More recently it has become popular for stores in Japan to feature generic omamori with popular characters such as Mickey Mouse, Hello Kitty, Snoopy, etc.
Omamori should never be opened or they lose their protective capacities.
Some popular omamori are: Kanai Anzen - Ensure general good health and help those with illness. Koutsu Anzen - Protection for drivers and travelers of all sorts. Enmusubi - Available for singles and couples to ensure love and marriage. Anzan - Protection for pregnant women during term and to ensure a safe and easy delivery. Gakugyojoju - Aid for students and scholars. Shobaihanjo - Success in business and matters of money.
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