Using an Orin Bell

Why Using an Orin Bell Is a Great Idea!

First of all, let me explain what an Orin bell is. Made in Japan, they are also known as Keisu. There are families of craftspeople in Japan who have been making them for centuries. The tones they make are unlike any sort of standard bell.

They are painstakingly created out of brass and are rung with strikers. They range in size from a couple of inches in diameter to nearly two feet! Many times, they also include a cushion of a sort which helps the tone to resonate for a longer period.

What Sound Does an Orin Bell Make?

We have several small Orin bells. The one that is pictured above and whose sound can be played below is approximately 100 years old and came from an estate sale of an old Japanese family in Nagoya, Japan.

So, What Are Orin Bells Used For?

They are often used in Buddhist temples and for meditation. Ringing an Orin bell, a practice rooted in various spiritual and cultural traditions, is widely regarded as a beneficial ritual for promoting mindfulness, focus, and inner peace. The resonant sound of the bell serves as a powerful tool to center your mind, bringing attention to the present moment.

In meditation practices, the bell’s tone acts as an auditory anchor, helping practitioners transition into a state of calm and awareness. Its clear, sustained sound can also symbolize the impermanence of thoughts and emotions, encouraging detachment and clarity.

In many traditions, ringing the Orin bell is believed to purify the environment, dispelling negative energies and creating a sacred space for reflection or prayer. This practice fosters a sense of harmony and balance, both within oneself and in the surrounding atmosphere. Additionally, the act of ringing the bell can mark the beginning or end of a meditation session, providing structure and intention to the practice.

One of the uses we put the bell to is ringing it every day as a signal to those in spirit that we have not forgotten them. Although this was initially aimed at those we knew who had passed we started to get a lot of visiting spirits too who were attracted by the bell.

Using an Orin Bell Has Meaning for Everyday Life

Beyond its spiritual significance, the Orin bell’s soothing tones have a physiological impact, reducing stress and promoting relaxation. By incorporating this simple yet profound practice into your daily life, you can cultivate mindfulness, enhance your emotional well-being, and create moments of tranquility amidst the chaos of modern living.

“Using an Orin Bell” Article by Charis and Talisman