amulets from kumano hongu taisha

amulets from kumano hongu taisha
Originally uploaded by ya ma

Three-legged birds are a sacred symbol of shrines throughout Asia.
Depending on the country, these birds are either crows or ravens.

They are said to be the messengers of God.

The three legs are said to symbolize heaven, earth and humankind. The bird is often said to inhabit and represent the sun.

Because of its excellent sense of direction, the crow is considered as a guide to unknown lands or a messenger for remote places.

These amulets depict the Japanese raven, Yatagarasu.
In the Japanese myths, when the Emperor Jimmu Tenno came up to Kumano and lost his way in a deep mountain there, Yatagarasu showed him the way.

(click on image for more information)

Note the interesting and decorative knotting also.