The kami of the house and the craftspeople
Ko no himorogi ni itsuki matsuru kakemaku mo kashikoki yafune no ōkamitaokihōhi no mikotohikosashiri no mikoto no ōmae ni此の神籬に斎き奉る掛巻も畏き屋船大神・手置帆負命・彦狭知命の大前に
Kashikomi kashikomi mo mōsaku畏み畏みも白さく
14
The kami of the house and the craftspeople
TranslationThe kami of the house and the craftspeople
Before Yafune Ōkami, Taokihooi no Mikoto, and Hikosashiri no Mikoto, enshrined at this himorogi and addressed with reverence, these words are humbly declared.
Includes interpretation
A carpenter whose name is supplied here has received the lofty and precious blessing of the kami and labored morning and evening, completing the pillars, beams, crossbeams, and rafters.
Editorial note
Nanigashi is a variable place for the carpenter’s name. The character shii in the source is understood here as a rafter.
Includes interpretation
This auspicious and sufficient day is chosen and celebrated for raising the ritual pillar. May the offerings presented in gratitude be received in peace.
Editorial note
Imibashira is rendered as the ritual pillar in this ceremony, without claiming that it denotes every structural post in the building.
Includes interpretation
May the divine spirit bring ever greater blessing, may the pillars set upright become ever firmer, and may the work of the ink line proceed swiftly to completion. These words are humbly declared.
Editorial note
The phrase concerning the ink line is understood as the prompt progress of the measured carpentry work. This prayer does not replace structural or construction safety requirements.
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