The Seventh Night of the Seventh Month (칠월칠석) - Qixi Festival - Seven Stars Prayer Meaning - Cowherd and Weaver Girl - Buddhist Ceremony - Wish Fulfillment
Ichijū Muchū Ichi
Hokuto Kujinchūten Daishin Jōchō Kongetsu Kabu Konron (北斗九辰中天大神上朝金闕下覆崑崙) Chōri Kōki Tōsei Kanken Daikai Tanrō Kyomen Rokuzon (調理綱紀統制乾坤大魁貪狼巨門祿存) Monkoku Enjō Bukoku Hagun Kōjō Gyokō Shibi Teikun (文曲廉貞武曲破軍高上玉皇紫微帝君) Daijūtenkai Sai Nyū Bijin Kazai Fumetsu Kahoku Fujin (大周天界細入微塵何災不滅何福不瑧) Gen'ō Seiki Rai Gō Washin Sen Gō Soshi Chūya Jōrin (元皇正氣來合我身川罡所指晝夜常輪) Sokkyo Shōnin Kōdō Kyūrei Genzon'i Eiho Chōsei (俗居小人好道求靈願尊儀永保張生) Santai Kyōsei Rikujun Kyokusei Seiwō Yōwo Go Washinkei (三台虛精六淳曲生生我養我護我身形) Kaichaku Kan Gyō Hishi Hyōzon Saikyu Kyūkyū Yoritsurei Sabaha (尊宰急急如律令娑婆訶)
The Hokuto Kujin incantation is a Taoist incantation that invokes the energy and spirits of the universe, centering on the Big Dipper (Hokuto Shichisei). The Big Dipper is considered a sacred constellation that governs human lifespan and destiny. This incantation aims to borrow the power of the Big Dipper to pray for health, longevity, and good fortune.
Interpretation of each phrase in the incantation
北斗九辰中天大神 上朝金闕下覆崑崙: This phrase signifies that the Great Gods of the Big Dipper, centered in the heavens, pay homage to the Golden Palace and cover Mount Kunlun, highlighting the majesty and sanctity of the Big Dipper.
調理綱紀統制乾坤 大魁貪狼巨門祿存: This phrase indicates that the Big Dipper governs the order of the universe and that the major stars like Tanlang, Jumen, and Rokuzon control the heavens and earth, representing the cosmic power of the Big Dipper.
文曲廉貞武曲破軍 高上玉皇紫微帝君: This phrase suggests that the stars Wenqu, Renjo, Buqu, and Hagu are together with the supreme Jade Emperor (Gyokō) and the Purple Micro Emperor (Shibi Teikun), demonstrating the connection between the Big Dipper and other sacred beings.
大周天界細入微塵 何災不滅何福不瑧: This phrase signifies that the great universe permeates even the finest dust, eliminating any disaster and bestowing every blessing, expressing the limitless power of the Big Dipper.
元皇正氣來合我身 川罡所指晝夜常輪: This phrase signifies that the genuine energy of the primordial emperor merges with my body, and the energy of the stars protects me day and night, emphasizing the influence of the Big Dipper's energy on individuals.
俗居小人好道求靈 願尊儀永保張生: This phrase signifies that a common, insignificant person cultivates the Tao and seeks spiritual power, and prays that the revered divine beings will protect them forever, reflecting an individual's fervent wish.
三台虛精六淳曲生 生我養我護我身形: This phrase signifies that the energy of the three platforms (Santai) and the six pure energies (Rikujun) give birth to, nourish, and protect my physical form, emphasizing the vitality and protective power of the Big Dipper.
Kaichaku Kan Gyō Hishi Hyōzon Saikyu Kyūkyū Yoritsurei Sabaha: This phrase represents an earnest prayer to perform sacred acts and witness efficacy, along with a powerful exclamation that concludes the incantation.
Effects of the Incantation
It was believed that reciting this incantation would allow one to receive the sacred energy of the Big Dipper, leading to a healthy, long, and happy life. It was also thought to have various other benefits, such as curing illnesses, warding off evil spirits, and fulfilling wishes.
Modern Interpretation
In modern society, this incantation can be interpreted not simply as a spell, but as a philosophical statement that embodies a profound desire for human health and happiness, as well as awe for the universe.
Caution: Beliefs regarding religious meanings and effects may vary depending on individual convictions, and there is no scientific basis for them.
Tanabata (The Seventh Night of the Seventh Lunar Month), a special day for wishing
Tanabata is a traditional festival celebrated in East Asia, including Korea. It is known as the day when Orihime (Vega) and Hikoboshi (Altair) meet once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month. There is a folklore that wishes made on this day will come true.
Concept of the Tanabata Buddhist Ceremony
The Tanabata Buddhist Ceremony is a Buddhist ceremony that combines these folk beliefs with Buddhist teachings. It is an occasion to pray for marital harmony and family happiness through the beautiful love story of Orihime and Hikoboshi, and to practice Buddhist compassion by making wishes for the fulfillment of all living beings.
Things used in the Tanabata Buddhist Ceremony
Prayer: A text containing prayers to Orihime and Hikoboshi on Tanabata, and earnest pleas for blessings from the Buddha.
Vow: A text containing wishes for the elimination of suffering and the promotion of happiness for all living beings.
Sutras: Sutras related to Tanabata are chanted, and participants listen to the Dharma to purify their minds. Representative sutras include the Diamond Sutra (Kongōkyō) and the Heart Sutra (Hannya Shingyō).
Paintings: Paintings related to Tanabata, such as Orihime and Hikoboshi, the Milky Way, etc., create an atmosphere for the ceremony and help participants focus their minds.
Procedure of the Tanabata Buddhist Ceremony
Worship: Pay respects to the Buddha and begin the day's ceremony.
Sutra Recitation: Chant sutras related to Tanabata.
Prayer: Pray to Orihime and Hikoboshi, and ask for blessings from the Buddha.
Vow: Make wishes for the happiness of all beings.
Tea Time: Participants drink tea together and discuss the Dharma, sharing their thoughts and feelings.
Reasons to Participate in the Tanabata Buddhist Ceremony
Wish Fulfillment: Just like the beautiful love story of Orihime and Hikoboshi, you can wish for happiness with your loved ones.
Marital Harmony: Pray for marital harmony and family happiness, strengthening the bonds between family members.
Peace of Mind: Purify your mind and gain peace by listening to sutras and praying.
Accumulation of Merit: Make wishes for the happiness of all beings, accumulate merit, and practice the Buddha's teachings.
Where can I participate in the Tanabata Buddhist Ceremony?
Most Buddhist temples hold Tanabata Buddhist ceremonies. Contact your nearest temple to check the ceremony schedule and participate.
Caution: The Tanabata Buddhist Ceremony is a Buddhist event, so a basic understanding of Buddhism can enhance your experience.
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