Knots of Destiny: Leaving Bad Luck Behind

The Tradition of Omikuji

In the foreground, a tree blooms not with flowers, but with white paper knots. These are Omikuji—fortune slips found at Japanese shrines. Tradition holds that if you draw a fortune predicting bad luck, you tie it to a designated tree or rack, leaving the misfortune behind at the shrine rather than carrying it home.

A Collective Prayer

Against the vibrant vermilion backdrop of the traditional temple architecture, these thousands of white knots create a stunning visual contrast. They represent a collective human experience: the shared desire to let go of worries and trust in a better future. Each knot is a prayer for protection and a fresh start.

Beauty in Belief

This image captures the serene intersection of nature, architecture, and faith. It’s a quiet reminder of the rituals we use to navigate the uncertainties of life.