Returning Ritual (Modori-Gyō)

— A Spiritual Practice of Expressing Gratitude to the Kami (Divine Spirits)

Why Is the Returning Ritual Necessary?

We often make requests to the kami (gods), but do we offer gratitude in return?

Without appreciation, even the divine beings may become weary and lose strength. All of us will one day return to the spiritual realm. If we are forgotten and receive nothing in return, it can be deeply painful.

The Returning Ritual (modori-gyō) is the practice of properly offering thanks to the divine beings who have visited us and guiding them back to their original place. This act creates a sacred cycle of mutual respect.

Examples of When to Perform Modori-Gyō

1. After Moving Out of a Home

If you received blessings during a house purification ceremony (jichinsai), the kami of that land continues to protect the place—even after you move out. If left unacknowledged, that kami becomes an “unconnected god” (muen no kami)—a serious spiritual transgression.

2. After Selling a Car

If you received a divine blessing upon purchasing a new car and later sold it, the protective kami remains attached. Without a ritual of release and thanks, this too becomes a spiritual debt.

To resolve this sin, you must first express gratitude and apology to the kami (kamigan-kaishō) before you can offer any apology together with your ancestors.

How to Perform a Modori-Gyō

For Homes and Cars

Prepare offerings such as vegetables (e.g., daikon radish, cucumbers) on a small tray or stand, along with a cup of amacha.

Offer words of heartfelt gratitude aloud:

“Please accept this offering as a gift for your return. Thank you so much for protecting us until now. If this is a talisman, I will return it to the local ujigami shrine tomorrow. Today, please accept these feelings with you. Thank you again.”

Note: In ancient times, instead of offertory boxes, trays were placed at shrines. People offered freshly harvested vegetables to express gratitude for being allowed to cultivate the divine earth. These actions came from sincere reverence.

Returning Amulets and Talismans

It is not ideal to hoard many protective charms or keep them indefinitely. At the end of the year, return them to the shrine they came from, offering thanks for the protection they provided throughout the year.

Final Reflection

Performing modori-gyō is even more important than the original divine invocation. It completes the cycle of divine interaction through sincere gratitude. Just as one must say “thank you” after receiving blessings, this ritual ensures the divine presence is honored and respectfully released.