Mihashira Torii

Mihashira ToriiatYamato, Gifu

Mihashira ToriiorMitsubashira Torii(Tam trụ điểu cư,Three-pillar Torii,also tam giác điểu cưsankaku torii)are a type oftoriigate found inShinto architecture.Like its name implies, it is a triangular structure that appears to be formed from three individualtorii.It is thought by some to have been built by early JapaneseChristiansto represent theHoly Trinity.

History

Mihashira ToriiatKonoshima Shrine

While the origins of themihashira toriicannot be directly proven, it is sometimes thought to be linked to earlyChristianity in Japan.

The primary historical example of amihashira toriiis found in the records ofKonoshima ShrineinKyoto.These records states that a triangulartoriiwas rebuilt in 1716–1736, after a fire. The text hints at a reference to Christianity in the construction of thetorii,and says that the three pillars represent the heavens, the earth, and mankind. This is not an interpretation common inShintobeliefs. The shrine record also holds that thetoriisymbolizesfaith,hope,andcharity.The Konoshimatoriistands in a pond with a pile of stones in the middle of the structure, supposedly the seat of aGod.

A private garden in Kyoto also exhibits amihashira torii,built in astream.The Christian owners of the estate claim to be descended from a family of Christians who practiced their religion in secret during a time when Christianity was strictly regulated in Japan. According to them, this type oftoriiwas used as a symbol for underground Christians, and that it represented theHoly Trinity.

Images

• 
  Mimeguri Shrine
• 
  Sakurai, Nara
• 
  A drawing byHokusai

See also

• Shinto architecture
• Shinto shrine