are the outward and visible symbols of the gods. In front of them upon the table stands a saucer of salt; while behind them bamboo fronds stuck into stands rise into a background of plumes.[1]
Spring water is then brought in and poured into the caldron. On my first occasion of witnessing the miracle I was at this point graciously permitted to dab my little finger into the water. I quite fail now to see why I desired to do so, but I am very glad I did. My request turned out a most discreet indiscretion, productive of much spiritual significance later on.
A fire was then kindled beneath, and we, professionals and amateurs, stood round about the square, watching for the water to boil. When at last the steam started to rise, the officiating acolyte emerged from the holy bathhouse near by, where he had been purifying himself, clad in a single white robe. That is, the robe was white
- ↑ The wood I have here and elsewhere translated "deal," on account of its appearance, which is simple to a degree, is the hinoki, lit. "sun-wood," the Thuya obtusa, or Arbor vitæ. Its name sun-wood is said by some priestly expositors to be due to its having furnished the prehistoric two sticks from whose rubbing first came fire.
