Emma Byers: Outside reading 1

     Gennep spoke about the purpose of Shrines in religion identifying them as a direct link to god (or gods). He questioned if they were really necessary since people undergo purification through their journey and penance. This question sparked my curiosity so I did some research on the role of shrines in Shintoism and Buddhism. The shrines are considered extremely sacred to the people of these religions. They are the homes of the gods themselves and the areas in which their ancestor’s spirits rest peacefully. The monks and priests that are in charge of the shrines must undergo purification process which includes running for 1000 days and then meditating for 5 straight days with no food, water or sleep in order to reach a state of purification. This is necessary in order to be considered worthy enough to be connected with the guiding spirits. The shrines do make the difference because they present the goal in which the monks and all believers strive to reach; a connection with the gods themselves.