Kobenomiyayomou Shrine, affectionately known as "Atama no Miya-san," is believed to have been established in the late Heian period, in 1191 (the second year of the Kenkyū era). The shrine venerates the skull of Karahashi Chujo Mitsumori Kyo, a descendant of the 50th Emperor, Emperor Kanmu. As such, it is revered as the "Guardian God of the Head" and the "Great God of Wisdom," attracting worship from various places. As the name suggests, it is said that prayers specifically pray for the head and upper part of the body receive divine assistance. Additionally, the word "Shihō" in the shrine's name represents the four cardinal directions - east, west, south, and north, which means the divine virtues spread to all directions, and the shrine is also worshipped as a deity for warding off disasters and calamities.
In terms of daily life (Inochi), "I" means to live, and "Chi" refers to wisdom. So it means “the wisdom for living”, which suggests that "wisdom" is more important than knowledge. The wisdom to live (Inochi) is given to us through the wisdom of the gods and ancestors.
Praying to the gods to draw out this wisdom and receive "virtue (guidelines for living)" is an act of prayer. It is important to always have faith and a heart of gratitude, receiving the divine virtue and protection from the Guardian God of the Head and the Great God of Wisdom.
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