The Hoshimatsuri (Star Festival or Star Offering) in Nichiren Shu Buddhism is an annual ritual held around Setsubun (the beginning of spring, usually in February) to pray for happiness, good fortune, and the warding off of misfortune in the coming year. An ofuda (amulet or talisman) is issued to participants as a physical representation of these prayers and blessings.
Purpose and Significance
The Hoshimatsuri ritual focuses on the belief that the movements of the sun, moon, planets, and constellations, according to traditional Japanese astrology, influence people’s lives and fortunes. By performing the ritual, the temple aims to eliminate various disasters and personal misfortunes. The Ofuda During the Hoshimatsuri service, a special ofuda is provided to practitioners. This talisman is blessed during the ceremony, often involving a special Kito Blessing Ceremony. The ofuda serves as a protective amulet (omamori) for the individual and their household throughout the year, embodying the power of the prayers and the protection of the Buddhist deities. The ofuda are an “expedient means” (Hoben) within the practice to help practitioners navigate life’s obstacles and stay on their spiritual path. They can be obtained by submitting a prayer request through the website link or in person.  * Please add name, age, and birthday in the request. The Ofuda is kept on the Altar in Buffalo temple and prayed for the entire year.
