REFLECTION - Rites of passage

Rites and Passages


Reflection

Some Rituals Around the World

• Japanese Shintō Tradition: After birth, baby boys are taken to the Shintō temple on the 32nd day, and baby girls on the 33rd. The purpose is to thank the deities and have the priest pray for the baby's happiness and health. Traditionally, the grandmother would take the baby to the temple.

• Hindu Ritual: A little ball of ghee and honey is introduced into the baby's mouth for future physical and mental health. Mantras are also recited in Sanskrit to ensure a long life and neutralize evil influences.

• Muslim Tradition: After birth, the father or a respected community member whispers a "declaration of faith" in the baby's ear, typically done in privacy.

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Complete the following sentence.

I haven’t had any experience…

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I do not remember, but I was told that...

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My family decided to… because…

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I believe that … has a definite impact on your future life because…

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In my country/culture…

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Some people believe that…

Audio Response

Did you go through any of these rites of passage when you were born? Can you think of other examples of rites of passage when a baby is born that weren’t discussed here? To what extent do you think these rites of passage might have an influence in the baby’s future life?

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