The Cleansing Rite of Kamii is an old and sacred ritual performed annually by the people of the Throne Region of Nagadao in the Nagan Empire. This ceremonial tradition is dedicated to purifying the waters of the Kamii River, believed to be the lifeblood of Laaos, the Keeper of Order, and a seasonal haven for Nori, the Watcher of Rivers. The ritual is also meant to appease the Kawa-no-Kami, the enigmatic river spirits that dwell within its depths.
Significance:
To the people of Nagadao, the Kamii River is far more than a body of water—it is a divine conduit, a source of life, prosperity, and spiritual connection. According to local belief, the river's health directly reflects the Empire's fortune. If the waters run pure and unblemished, it is seen as a sign of Laaos's favor and the Empire's strength. Conversely, polluted or tainted waters are seen as omens of misfortune, angering the Kawa-no-Kami and inviting their wrath in the form of floods, droughts, or blight.The Kawa-no-Kami:
The river spirits known as Kawa-no-Kami are guardians of the Kamii. Described in folklore as shapeshifting entities that can appear as koi fish, elegant cranes, or even fleeting shadows beneath the water's surface, they are both benevolent and fierce. If the river is respected, they are said to bless the lands with bountiful harvests and clear waters. If defiled, they are known to summon storms, cause mysterious drownings, or withdraw their blessings entirely.The Ritual Process:
- The Gathering of Waters: The rite begins with priests and riverkeepers gathering water from the Three Sacred Springs located upriver. These springs are believed to be the birthplace of the Kamii's purity. The water is carried in ornate vessels etched with the symbols of Laaos and Nori, and transported to shrines along the riverbanks.
- The Casting of Offerings: Offerings are prepared in the form of handcrafted paper boats, Nagare Mamori, each inscribed with prayers and blessings for the coming year. Families and travelers alike write their hopes and requests for protection, binding them to small bundles of sage, lotus petals, and river stones. These are set adrift upon the Kamii's surface, symbolizing their wishes being carried to the gods.
- The Purification Chant: As the offerings flow down the river, the Kawa-no-Kotodama, a sacred chant, is performed by priests and priestesses at shrines along the banks. This chant is said to awaken the spirits of the river and invite the blessing of Laaos to purify its waters. Bells are rung in unison with the chanting, the sound believed to drive away malevolent spirits that may cling to the currents.
- The Ritual Cleansing: Following the casting of offerings, participants wade into the shallow edges of the river for Misogi, a ritual purification. They wash their hands and faces in the flowing water, symbolizing the cleansing of not only the river but of the soul. This act is performed with great reverence, as it is believed that any impurity carried into the Kamii during this time could anger the Kawa-no-Kami.
- The Blessing of the Waters: The ritual concludes with the Mizu-no-Inori, a blessing where sacred lanterns are lit and set upon the water, drifting downstream as symbols of gratitude and hope. The floating lights are believed to guide the spirits back to their resting places, satisfied and appeased for another year.
Festivities and Celebration:
The Cleansing Rite is not solely a solemn occasion—it is also a time of great celebration. Markets spring to life along the banks, adorned with vibrant lanterns and stalls offering traditional foods. Performers re-enact ancient tales of the river spirits and the blessings of Laaos and Nori. Traditional Kagura dances are performed, where masked dancers embody the spirits of the river, moving gracefully to the rhythm of taiko drums and flutes.