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"Spiritual things must be spiritually discerned."
In ancient times, taiko reflected the spiritual beliefs of the people.
It was used as a practical and efficient way to gather
people together and signal battles, as well as to honor
those who have passed on in Obon
ceremonies, drive away evil spirits and offer thanks for a bountiful
harvest.
We left the Crystal Cove
Auditorim feeling invigorated, cleansed, and grateful, as
vicariously and subliminally, we
experienced
the spiritual and unifying elements of taiko:
- Karada: Discipline of body strength,
power, and stamina
- Kokoro: Discipline of mind, self
control, and spirit
- Waza: Musical skills, physical
expressions, and rhythm expression, and rhythm
- Rei: Communication, manners,
courtesy, respect, harmony, language, and unity of
spirit.
Taiko often have the
‘mistu-domoe’ or three-comma design painted or lacquered
on the skin. This symbol is said to symbolize the earth, the
sky, and people. By connecting these three elements into a
nearly interlocking whole, this symbol conveys the
interconnectedness of all things.
Jodaiko's Mon
(Crest or Logo)
The sense of connection,
shared energy (ki) and union between individual
elements is a key concept of taiko, and that sense of
connection was wonderfully achieved on this day by the
members of Jodaiko and its audience, especially by
those able to discern things spiritual.
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