What to Do If You Draw a

1. The Common Phenomenon of Drawing a "Kyo" (Bad Luck) Fortune

In the tapestry of traditional Japanese faith and culture, temple fortune slips, or Omikuji, carry a unique spiritual significance. When a slip reveals the character "Kyo" (凶), or "Bad Luck," it often sparks immediate concern. However, in truth, a "Kyo" slip is not a symbol of doom in the traditional sense, but rather a guiding signal rich with specific cultural meaning. To truly understand this phenomenon, we must trace the history of Omikuji back to its roots.

2. The Origins of Omikuji: The Wisdom of Ganzan Daishi

The origin of Omikuji is closely tied to the Heian period high priest, Ganzan Daishi (also known as Ryogen). Legend has it that while practicing asceticism on Mount Hiei, he was inspired by the divine to create "Kannon Kuji" (divination slips). These bamboo slips, inscribed with poetic verses, were originally used to guide believers in their spiritual practice. This form of divination later spread to common temples, evolving into the Omikuji familiar to tourists today. Its core purpose remains a "divine exhortation" rather than a "verdict of fate."

It is worth noting that the cultural foundation of Omikuji blends the Yin-Yang philosophy of the Chinese I Ching (Book of Changes) with indigenous Japanese Shinto beliefs. Just as Prince Shotoku incorporated the Five Elements theory into his "Twelve Level Cap and Rank System," the classification of luck in Omikuji implies a dialectical mindset where "extremes turn into their opposites." This is the key to understanding the true meaning of a "Kyo" slip.

3. Decoding the Luck Ranks: The Complete Order from "Dai-kichi" to "Dai-kyo"

The ranking system of Omikuji in Japanese temples is quite detailed. While slight variations exist between temples, the core hierarchy generally follows this order, from best to worst:

1. Dai-kichi (Excellent Luck): The peak of fortune; everything goes smoothly (like cherry blossoms in full bloom).
2. Kichi (Good Luck): Generally smooth sailing, accompanied by small blessings (the norm of daily good fortune).
3. Chu-kichi (Medium Good Luck): Steady improvement, with occasional minor obstacles (requires attention to detail).
4. Sho-kichi (Small Good Luck): Calm and uneventful; no disasters or trouble (peace within the ordinary).
5. Sue-kichi (Future Luck): Good luck with some risk; caution is advised (need to avoid potential pitfalls).
6. Sue-sho-kichi (Small Future Luck): Accompanied by tiny blessings; focus on accumulation (small efforts yield results).
7. Kyo (Bad Luck): Fortune is fluctuating; a turning point is near (a warning to be alert, not a dead end).
8. Dai-kyo (Great Bad Luck): Challenges are concentrated; a time of trial (the strongest warning; active adjustment is needed).

Interestingly, Naritasan Shinshoji Temple in Chiba Prefecture translates "Kyo" as "Bad Luck" for the convenience of foreign tourists. However, in Japanese folklore, this term is closer to "a phase requiring caution" rather than "absolute misfortune."

4. Don't Panic if You Draw "Kyo": Cultural Meaning and Proper Handling

1. The True Meaning of a Bad Luck Slip: Opportunity Hides in the Warning

Japanese folklore considers a "Kyo" slip to be a "kind reminder" from the gods—much like a health alarm when your body feels off. It does not declare that the situation is "hopeless," but rather suggests that "adjustments are needed." Drawing a "Kyo" implies there may be unnoticed risks in the near future (such as poor decision-making or a restless mind). The deity provides a warning through the verse; as long as you avoid or correct these issues in time, "Kyo" can be transformed into "Kichi." This mindset of "good luck hiding within bad" reflects the Shinto concept of "self-cultivation in the present world."

2. Two Ways to Handle the Slip: Tie It to a Tree or Take It Home

If you draw a "Kyo" slip, there is no need for anxiety. simply handle it in one of the following traditional ways:

• Tie it to the designated "Omikuji Rack" at the temple: This is the most common practice. Temples provide specific branches or racks for tying used slips. This symbolizes leaving the "bad luck" with the deity, asking them to dissolve it so you can move forward unburdened. There is no need to use a special knot; simply tying it loosely or hanging it is sufficient—sincerity is what counts.

• Take it home and keep it safe: If the slip contains specific advice for avoiding misfortune (such as "be cautious in speech and action" or "stay away from disputes"), you can take it home. Place it on your desk or in your entryway as a daily reminder. After this period passes (usually a year), you can return it to the temple or burn it during the New Year prayers, symbolizing that "the bad luck has passed, and good luck is coming."

It is important to note that regardless of the method, you should never casually throw away the slip. Omikuji are seen as the will of the gods, and discarding them carelessly is considered disrespectful.

5. A Unique Fortune: Meiji Jingu's "Omigokoro"—Wisdom Without Good or Bad

Not all Japanese fortune slips are categorized by luck. A notable exception is the unique "Omigokoro" (大御心) at Meiji Jingu Shrine.

Created in 1947 at the suggestion of Kokugakuin University professor Miyaji Naoichi, this fortune slip has key characteristics:

• No Luck Ranking: There are no "Dai-kichi" or "Kyo" labels. Instead, the slips feature Waka poetry written by Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.
• Moral Guidance: The content focuses on moral encouragement, such as "humility is a virtue." It aims to guide worshipers to reflect on themselves.
• English Version: Since 1968, an English version has been available, becoming a cultural symbol of Meiji Jingu.

Unlike traditional Omikuji, "Omigokoro" steps outside the framework of fortune-telling. It returns to the essence of "Shinto encouraging people to be good."

6. The True Essence of Omikuji: Cultivating the Heart, Not Superstition

Ultimately, drawing fortune slips at Japanese temples is not feudal superstition, but a cultural ritual and a method of self-dialogue. When we draw "Dai-kichi", it is encouragement; when we draw "Kyo", it is a warning. Just as Meiji Jingu's "Omigokoro" conveys, the will of the gods is never about controlling fate, but guiding us to become better versions of ourselves.

The joy of drawing Omikuji lies not in predicting the future, but in finding a sense of inner peace. The next time you draw a "Kyo" slip, why not smile and tie it to the tree? Tell yourself: This is the deity reminding me to live more mindfully. After all, true good luck is always hidden within clear awareness and steady action.