Hari Kuyou 2021
Festival
Constance, Rose and Min went to a celebration…
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Tofu
…carrying bent needles and pins to the temple.
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Textile
At the temple they stuck their bent, blunt, worn out, and rusty pins and needles into a block of soft tofu, which was decorated with threads in seven colours.
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Gratitude
Coming from a household which is deeply involved with textiles and needlework, we thought it appropriate to acknowledge Hari Kuyou this year.
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rest
Our needles and pins served us well last year, having stitched many clothes and quilts for Hittys and humans…it is time for our faithful sewing tools to retire.
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Thoughtful
After being forced through stiff fabrics for so long, they now get to rest, and are pushed into the soft tofu with grateful prayers.
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Looking forward
Let’s look forward to new fabrics, fresh, sharp needles and interesting textile projects in 2021!
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Click here for an explanation about Hari Kuyo as celebrated in Kyoto….
…and click here for pictures of Hari Kuyo tofu decorated with coloured threads and fresh branches.
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Quimper Hittys 
How lovely! I think I’d like to sink into a nice soft bed of tofu when I become all bent out of shape and lose my sharp point!
And gratitude for the work you do I’m sure would not come amiss! A time of repose and a comfortable place to rest are a gift!
How very interesting. I’ve been putting my bent and broken needles into a quilted pad I have under a sewing machine. I just might make a pretty pincushion and put them in there and when the time is right, have a little ceremony for those hard working “hands” (thanks for the article links) in thanks for their service. I appreciate, once again, your bringing forth traditions that come from afar. By the way, the Hittys are dressed beautifully for this occasion.
It is an interesting ceremony, I enjoyed learning about it too. And since the house is full of needles and pins, eventually we end up with a box of them too dull, or broken, rusty or nicked…I like the idea of thanking them in this way.
This is a touching practice. The girls look so beautiful and respectful.
I was glad to dress the girls in their kimono for this ceremony, and they are always happy to be dressed formally for any special celebration.
I loved the comment from katechiconi! suddenly found myself laughing out loud, in solitude – I am right with you there… What the Hitties found to do today is so interesting, thought provoking – I’m also “with Becky” in much appreciation for the links to the articles and photos. And then I come back to be with the girls, and their beautiful attire, in their wonderfully created sacred space… Thank you.
You are welcome, we do try to be respectful in honouring the ideas from other traditions. We love the idea of this ceremony so much!
such a charming and satisfying ceremony. Your girls are beautiful in their kimono’s.
Thanks so much! We hope for lots of textile fun in the coming year!
Once again, you fill me with delight and fire my imagination! Thank you thank you! 😀
We are very happy to share, and pleased that your imagination was sparked…that is the best kind of sharing!