Inspired by shimenawa — ropes tied around Shinto shrines and trees — Shide takes its geometric motif from the zigzag paper streamers that hang from hemp ropes. Used for ritual purification, shimenawa indicate pure or sacred space, whether a naturally formed rock or manmade gate. In a related ritual, a Shinto priest passes a lightning wand tied with paper streamers over a person, place or thing. As the wand waves, the shide rustle, purifying and blessing the subject.

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