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Photograph of modern O-fude in Japanese Shinto shrine
Literally, O-fude means "honorable holy writing" in Japanese.
O-fude refers to holy writings of nearly any kind that are associated with Shinto, the native religion of Japan.
A loose translation that is generally appropriate for Westerners is scripture, especially single-page good luck charms that are drawn or written by priests. These are sometimes available for purchase at Shinto shrines. In this context o-fude can be used to bring the bearer luck, protection from evil, or to consecrate the area in which the o-fude is kept or posted. Sometimes o-fude are drawn up by priests for specific events, such as to give good luck when constructing a new building.
In manga, anime, and Japanese folklore, o-fude has a more specific meaning. In this context an o-fude is a small piece of paper that has holy or magical symbols written on it, either by a priest, sorcerer, or miko. An o-fude is usually a talisman or even an outright weapon against demons or oni. The exact interpretation varies depending on the author or artist. A common depiction is that the o-fude is affixed to a location, such as a shrine or a doorway, in which case ghosts or demons cannot pass into that area or are hurt if they try to do so. In this case the o-fude is said to be a ward. Sometimes the o-fude is simply an aid for performing magic spells. Another common depiction is that o-fude have the ability to exorcise a person posessed by spirits. It is important to note that in this context o-fude are only proof against the supernatural.
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