Gifts Of Money From O'Sensei's Students

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[dps]

This is statement from Kisshomaru Ueshiba, (http://www.aikidofaq.com/interviews.html)

"Not only that, when his students brought over monthly offerings he would respond, "I don't want this sort of thing." He told them to offer it to the kami-sama (deity) and never accepted money directly. And when he was in need of money he would humbly present himself in front of the altar of the kami-sama and receive gifts from the deity."

Does this mean the gifts of money belonged to the deity and were kept at the alter until given to O'Sensei as gifts from the deity?

dps

[Carl Thompson]

Does this mean the gifts of money belonged to the deity and were kept at the alter until given to O'Sensei as gifts from the deity?


Just a thought, but could he have been referring to the saisenbako (Offertory box)?

Carl

[Diana Frese]

Uh oh here I go out on a limb, but visiting friends in Japan I brought a gift and they put it on a shelf near the ceiling. I think it's called a kamidana, or the Buddhist equivalent.....

It was kind of like a high up mini-altar, so I respected that, but as an American I wished they would just open it so I could see if they liked it.

I hope my attempt to add my little observation will prompt some people to give more elucidation on Japanese customs and about O-Sensei.....

[Diana Frese]

My opinion yes, they gave to the Kami and the Kami gave to O-Sensei. Does this have to do with Aikido being O-Sensei's mission given him from the Kami?

Now, I'm going to read the link and hope for people to post more of their thoughts, both those familiar with Japanese culture and those who maybe are not so familiar, both would be valuable.

Carl, it would be interesting to read your description if you would be so kind to give some detail. I don't have very much knowledge of customs.

[graham christian]

To translate it without the traditions I would say it basically means he never charged fixed fees and only accepted donations.

My original teacher did this and I have always done this.

Regards.G.