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| Nagasaki 1945, after the atomic bomb |
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| Nagasaki 2011, following the earthquake and tsunami |
A torii is a gate marking the entrance to a sacred space and is closest associated with Shinto, the indigenous spirituality of Japan. Traditionally it was made from wood or stone, but today they can also be made of reinforced concrete, copper, stainless steel or other materials. (Source: Wikipedia)
What is so remarkable about the torri in the images is that
it remained standing through the Nagasaki atomic bombing of 1945 and the tsunami and earthquake in 2011. But this is merely a structure made of earthly materials. We have a God that is even sturdier, more reliable no matter what. "And so we need not fear even if the world blows up, and the mountains crumble into the sea." “…our refuge and strength, a tested help in times of trouble.”
Psalm 46 (Amp)
1GOD IS our Refuge and Strength [mighty and impenetrable to temptation], a very present and well-proved help in trouble.
2Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains be shaken into the midst of the seas,
3Though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling and tumult.
4There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the Most High.
5God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God will help her right early [at the dawn of the morning].
6The nations raged, the kingdoms tottered and were moved; He uttered His voice, the earth melted.
7The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our Refuge (our Fortress and High Tower).
8Come, behold the works of the Lord, Who has wrought desolations and wonders in the earth.
9He makes wars to cease to the end of the earth; He breaks the bow into pieces and snaps the spear in two; He burns the chariots in the fire.
10Let be and be still, and know (recognize and understand) that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations! I will be exalted in the earth!
11The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our Refuge (our High Tower and Stronghold).
6 comments:
Wow! ... I did not know that ... very true, nice work!
It was very interesting to read up about this. All the e-mails and presentations that I saw on it merely asked the question: what is this made of so that it could withstand those disasters. Now I have some understanding :)
This is fascinating, Liane, thank you for sharing.
The internet is such a wonderful thing, Cindy! So next time you visit Japan you'll know a little bit more when you spot one of those :)
Nagasaki is not where the earthquake and tsunami was. People look at a map...Nagasaki is on kyushi island. The tsunami hit the north-east of Honshu island...
It will be interesting to look into the detail. Thanks for pointing it out, anonymous.
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