Abstract
The purpose of the article is to study the concept of Kotodama, based on the Kotodama belief, and to analyze the role of this phenomenon in the Japanese linguoculture. In the course of the study, we reveal its origin, evolution and present status. The linguocultural and axiological approaches enable us to represent the main characteristics of Kotodama as an essential part of the Japanese language and culture.
Highlights
From ancient times there has always been a respectful attitude towards the word or the symbol in different cultures and traditions
It is believed that the combination of sounds “Om” or “Aum” in Sanskrit radiates Divine Vibrations, produces healing energy and has a variety of sacred meanings, depending on the starting point of interpretation. It is a well-known fact that the Korean Alphabet hangul is recognized as a cultural heritage of Korea, whose high status is emphasized by the celebration of the Korean Alphabet Day on October, 9 every year
The main features of spoken words, endowed with Kotodama, are [1]: 1)the words uttered by Shinto Gods Kami; 2)the words passed to the people inhabiting the territory of Yamato; 3)the words used for performing Shinto rituals, in Emperor’s acts and speeches, in poetry; 4)the words of prayers, addressed to the Shinto Gods, Buddhas or people; 5)the words have a special magic power, which can influence the recipient, and even can make the Emperor live longer
Summary
From ancient times there has always been a respectful attitude towards the word or the symbol in different cultures and traditions. It is believed that the combination of sounds “Om” or “Aum” in Sanskrit radiates Divine Vibrations, produces healing energy and has a variety of sacred meanings, depending on the starting point of interpretation. It is a well-known fact that the Korean Alphabet hangul is recognized as a cultural heritage of Korea, whose high status is emphasized by the celebration of the Korean Alphabet Day on October, 9 every year. The Japanese tradition of the gentle and respectful attitude to the word dates back to the ancient times, when the Kotodama belief was born. Due to the Shinto beliefs, Kotodama has a magical power to change or create the reality
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