The shimenawa is a sacred rope made of rice paper or hemp, used in Japanese architecture to mark sacred spaces in Shinto shrines or sacred trees. It is believed to represent the boundary between the divine and earthly realms, and is often hung at the entrance of a sacred space to symbolize the separation. In Japanese culture, the shimenawa is a symbol of purification and protection against evil spirits. It can also be seen in traditional Japanese homes and buildings, where it is displayed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. Its importance lies in its role in creating a physical and spiritual barrier between the mundane and the sacred, emphasizing the importance of respect for the divine in Japanese religious and cultural traditions.
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