Contributed Talk - Splinter Outreach
Preparing for the 100th anniversary of the planetariums
On October 21st, 1923, the first planetarium projector was presented for the first time, and on May 7th, 1925, the world's first planetarium opened in Munich. The 100th anniversary of these key dates will mark the beginning and the end of a Centennial anniversary year of the planetariums. The anniversary activities are being prepared jointly by GDP, the society of German-language planetariums, and IPS, the international planetarium society. In this talk, an overview of the planned activities will be given, and upcoming tasks in which the larger science communication community might be involved will be highlighted.


The building is a 1950s reconstruction on a bomb site in Soho, which was at first used as offices, but largely disused in recent years. Following conversion and refurbishment, it now provides four flats above a flourishing café at street and basement levels.
Planning, which involved a change of use from office to residential in this sensitive historic central London location, was particularly challenging.
Initial designs for tender and construction had to be produced in less than three months before an existing planning consent for only one flat above the office premises expired. Subsequently, a comprehensive planning application was submitted to optimise residential provision.
The works included the interior design of flats, refurbishment of the building envelope and separation of the residential and non-residential entries and circulation.
Client Soho Housing Association
Status Completed 2016


This is a story about Hatihalka, a cluster of villages in the Midnapore district of West Bengal. When you visit there, apart from the villagers and their homes, what is unusual about Hatihalka are the enchanting ruins of terracota temples, 32 of them, which we are told are 250 and 300 years old. These temples stretch over a three square kilometre area, they are the Sheetala, Navaratna and Das Mahavidya temples. Amongst them is also a stone image, built in the ninth century of Vishnu Lokeswar, a combination of the images of Vishnu and Buddha. Experts say that Buddhism once flourished in this area. On the walls of these temples, we can see depiction’s of the battle for Sri Lanka, episodes from the life of Lord Krishna and many hunting scenes.
Mohammad Yasin, a Muslim resident of this cluster of villages ruins. Through his childhood, he was haunted by them “What kind of people lived on the same soil that we tread? What were their thoughts? Their dreams? How did they live?”
Twenty-five years ago, when the frail Yasin became a school teacher in the same village, consumed with his passion to prevent the further decay of these temples, he began a one-man crusade. He started meeting local political leaders, he wrote to the Indian government alerting them about the plight of this decaying heritage. Receiving no immediate answers, he travelled to Delhi himself to meet with archaeologists and even spent Rs. 50,000 of his own money to instigate action towards preservation of the forgotten ruins.
Even as he fought hard for his dream, he faced difficulties. because thought he passionately loved these temples, he had a Muslim name.
Often , in the midst of his crusade, he despaired. part of a precious heritage of the medieval past, the impressive Navartna temple had many of its marble fittings stolen. And once, thanks to the vigilance of Yasin who had set up a committee of local villagers, a criminal spotted attempting to sell a stone image for Rs. 8,000 to a foreigner, was stopped.
Thanks to the singleminded efforts of Yasin, some grants were sanctioned by the government for the protection of the temples but much of it got diverted by the local panchayat away from the temple-restoration work. Still Yasin devotes his time and effort. writing on the subject of his temples, sometimes dispairing but never giving up the cause of his beloved temples. through the Pathra Archaeological Preservation Committee of which Yasin is a member fresh steps are afoot to save the temples that are also threatened by submergence if the Kansabati river changes its course.
But today , despite these efforts, Yasin is a lonely man. Not wanting to divulge their names locals say, “If the temples are standing today, it is because of the labours of our Pathan.” But that is in private. In public, the Muslims call him a kafir and only the other day, the old temple priest took his sandle out and shook it at Yasin in anger asking, “What is your motive in meddling in the temple business?"
WHAT SHOULD YASIN DO ?
SHOULD HE GIVE UP HIS CRUSADE FOR HIS BELOVED TEMPLES ?
WHAT SUPPORT SHOULD HE RECEIVE FOR HIS STRUGGLE TO CONTINUE?


Five decades ago, on the 6th March 1957, the British colony of the Gold Coast became independent and assumed the name Ghana.
So why was the name Ghana was assumed? There are mainly three reasons.
1. Ghana was not ethnically specific to any of the country’s ethnic groups.
2. The example of Ancient Ghana was something the new emerging nation wanted to emulate (Geographically, the old Ghana is 500 miles north of the present Ghana, and occupied the area between Rivers Senegal and Niger) Ancient Ghana was a great African empire that endured for three centuries.
3. Some of the founding fathers of Ghana argued that the Akan (an ethnic group in Ghana) of the Gold Coast, who constituted nearly 45% of the population, were descendants of the ancient Ghana Empire


Most of the portfolios of business (in English – briefcases) evolved from soft backpacks used for carrying money and valuables in the 14th century. They were called the English word "budget", that one of values – stock. The word in its turn, was converted from two other Irish and Latin origin, meaning "leather bag". At 1826g in Paris first appeared holdall in the construction of which was used metal frame. Then followed by the bag and the bag for golfa.I finally emerged known today portfolios with a metal frame basis.
Its name "briefcases" they received, of course, for the purpose of use of their lawyers to be worn with a Legal Affairs (English briefs). Types of portfolios "Portfolio" or a business directory, a portfolio represents a case without handles for carrying in hand or under your arm. The name comes from the Italian word "portare", meaning – to wear and "foglio" – a sheet. "Folio case" – that same folder with only retractable handles. "Attache case" – a flat briefcase for carrying business papers (diplomat).
This portfolio were diplomatic officers who served in the embassies and consulates. Enhancement occurred on the road suitcase that was used in the 19th century – a small flat leather suitcase on the basis of dense cardboard. Smaller version later became a diplomat. Development and transformation of portfolios can trace the history of Development of leather accessories, leading to the modern portfolio. It is easy to see that early rigid rectangular suitcases, briefcases were driven modern – soft leather, often with a shoulder remnyami.Poslednie are more roomy – as they can stretch up to a certain extent. In addition, they look presentable than its predecessors. In addition, in the modern fashion appeared portfolios, sewn especially for wearing of personal computers – laptops. Well, mankind remains to be seen on the developments and changes in fashion leather briefcases.


Golden Triangle Tour 2 Nights 3 Days
Duration : 02 Nights / 03 Days
Destination Covered : Delhi - Agra - Delhi
DAY 01 DELHI
Our Chauffer will pick up you from hotel in Delhi.
Sightseeing tour of delhi
- Jama Masjid
This Historical mosque , literally mean Masjid – I – Jahan – Numa or world reflecting mosque , constructed by 5th Mughal king Shah Jahan, is located in the central part of old Delhi.
- Red Fort
Constructed by 5th Mughal king Shah Jahan for residential purpose in nine years between 1639 to 1648. The Fort has been encapsulated by UNESCO in list of world heritage sites.
Close on monday
- Humayun’s Tomb
The tomb of 2nd Mughal King Humayun ,who died fallen while disembarking stairs of his library, constructed by his first wife Bega Begum in 1565.
- Qutub Minar
Constructed by Qutb al- Din Aibak , one of the tallest brick minarets in the World , 73 metres height & also a world heritage site.
- India Gate
Designed by Edwin Lutyens, in memory of those Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the first world war.
- President House
Also known as Viceroy’s House , occupied by Governor - General of India until Independence.
- Parliament House
The parliament house exhibit governance of world largest democracy, also known as temple of Indian democracy.
- Raj Ghat
Memorial of Gandhi , the father of our nation. His last words “Hey Ram” is inscribed on his cenotaph.
Lunch break in AC Restaurant on direct payment by you.
Leaving Delhi for Agra.
Arriving your hotel in Agra. Evening free to browse Marble Inlay Handicraft work in city (Optional).Overnight in Agra.
DAY 02 DELHI
- Taj Mahal ( Sunrise )
Leaving hotel early morning for sightseeing of Taj Mahal at sunrise.The TajMahal,a mausoleum constructed by fifth Mughal emperor in loving memoryof his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal stands as testimony of their eternal love.Taj Mahal is an Arabic word which literally means “Crown Palace”.
- Taj Mahal is closed on Friday.
- In Summer Sunrise time is 5:30 AM
- In Winter Sunrise time is 6:15 AM
Back to hotel for breakfast and shower.
Check out from hotel and drive to Agra Fort
- Agra Fort
The Fort made of red sand stone depict residence & glorious rule of the mighty mughals with their lavish lifestyle. Constructed in 15th century by third Mughal king Akbar , encircled with two huge walls & has some impressive buildings like Jasmine Tower, Khas Mahal , Diwan I Am, Diwan I Khas etc.
Drive to Jaipur enroute sightseeing tour of Fatehpur Sikri.
- Distance Agra toFatehpurSikri is 48 km& 01 hr drive
Leaving Agra for Jaipur enroute sightseeing of Fatehpur Sikri.
- FATEHPUR SIKRI
Also known as ghost town or abandoned city , the estranged capital of third Mughal Emperor Akbar, built in 1569 and deserted due to shortage of water and some political reason.
Ending tour at FatehpurSikri followed by drive back to Jaipur. Enroute you can stop for lunch break in AC restaurant on direct payment.
Arriving your hotel in Jaipur. Evening free to browse textile market in Jaipur.Overnight in Jaipur.
DAY 03 Jaipur
Sightseeing tour of Jaipur
- AMER FORT
The Fort was residence of Rajputs Maharajas & their families , constructed of red sandstone & marble, known for its artistic Hindu style element, located in town Amer comes under Jurisdiction of Jaipur. Consist of some fascinating buildings :Diwan – E – Aam , Diwan – E – Khas , Sheesh Palace etc.
- HAWA MAHAL
Also known as the Palace of winds , high screen wall built so that women of royal household could observe street festivals while unseen from outside.
- CITY PALACE
Built by Sawai Jai Singh II between 1729 &1732 , includes two fascinating palaces –Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal palaces and other buildings in its palace complex.
- JANTAR MANTAR
The word Jantra derived from Yantra (Instrument) while Mantar mean calculation.This observatory, one of the world heritage site of UNESCO, built by Maharaja Jai Singh of Jaipur in 1724, used for various astronomical calculations.
Drive to Delhi.
OPTIONAL – Lunch Break in AC Restaurant on direct payment.
Arriving Delhi.Transfering you either hotel or Airport in Delhi.
- Private AC Car for entire trip
- English Speakingregional Tour Guide in Delhi, Agra & Jaipur.
- All Toll ,Parkings& State Taxes
- 02 Bottles Mineral water per traveller per day in cab.
- Shoe cover at TajMahal
- Any Tiping or Gratuity to Tour Guide or Driver.
- Monument Admission Tickets.
- Any kind of meal.
- Any Accommodation
- Airport Parking (In case pick up is done from Delhi Airport)
No of Traveller
USD ( Per Person )
INR ( Per Person )
01 Person Travelling
02 Person Travelling
03 Person Travelling
04 Person Travelling
05 person Travelling
Information required for booking this tour:
- Name of Travellers
- Delhi Hotel detail for Pick Up
- Final date of tour from Delhi to Agra
Monument Entrance you have to pay directly at Government booking counter in INR only.Our tour guide will assist you in buying Monument admission ticket.
Delhi Monument EntrancesPer Adult -Red Fort INR 500 , Humayun Tomb INR 500 & Qutab Minar INR 500
AGRA Monument Entrances Per Adult - Taj Mahal INR 1000, Agra Fort INR 500, Fatehpur Sikri INR 500 & Mehtab Bagh INR 200
Jaipur Monument Entrances Per Adult - Amer Fort INR 500, City Palace INR 500, Jantar Mantar INR 200 & Hawa Mahal INR 200
Children below age of 15 years are entitled free entry inside Monuments.
On request we can book any hotels in Delhi, Agra & Jaipur respectively.


The 5 o’clock tea has its origins in the nineteenth century Great Britain. It was then that Anna Maria Stanhope, Duchess of Bedford, one of Queen Victoria’s favorites, asked for some tea and a snack in the late afternoon because dinner time was only after 8 pm. She began inviting friends to join her so that little by little this became a true tradition that is still respected today. Initially people savored cucumber sandwiches and various types of cake but nowadays afternoon tea is likely to be just a biscuit or a muffin and a mug of the favorite tea.\r\n\r\nGALATECA also wants to create traditions, so please join us on Friday, April 12th, at 5 o\’clock to enjoy some good conversation with special guests, cookies, cake and tea in a vintage atmosphere. This event is part of The Rest is Yesterday, the last in our series of exhibitions dedicated to contemporary fashion and fashion design from the 1600 until today.


This is a paper manuscript in Telugu script in the Chandra Shum Shere collection at the Bodleian Libraries. It was bought, as part of a private collection of 6330 manuscripts in Benares, by the Maharaja Sir Chandra Shum Shere in 1909 and presented to the University of Oxford (Wujastyk 1978, 1). The text extends from the beginning of the Jātisamuddeśa to the end of the Kriyāsamuddeśa, although folios 109, 110 and 111 are missing. It has never before been edited and it was not known to Wilhelm Rau, but it is described in Dominik Wujastyk's Handlist of the Vyākaraṇa manuscripts in the Chandra Shum Shere Collection preserved in the Bodleian Library. The manuscript was bound into book form by the library, and the folios were numbered by Thomas Gambier-Parry in pencil (Wujastyk 1978, 2). Gambier-Parry's foliation begins at the first flyleaf of the book; the first manuscript folio is numbered 3. Moreover, his foliation does not take into account the missing folios. In this transcription, the original Telugu foliation has been followed.


Ali Arc Industries LP, under its current ownership was established over 20 years ago. At that time it manufactured "bullbars", largely for the light commercial market within New Zealand. In those early years, Ali Arc developed its product range for the truck market. Consistent with Ali Arc's entrepreneurial spirit, Ali Arc in the early 1990's commenced exporting truck bars to Canada. The demand proved to be so great that the decision was made to establish a manufacturing plant in Winnipeg in 1995 and Ali Arc Industries LP was born!
Select Your Vehicle


This painting titled "Coniston Massacre" by Peter Leo of Coniston Station is important beyond words. Peter was an elder and the keeper of the story for his community which meant he was responsible for telling the story of the horrible events which took place at his Homeland and he has done this in this painting because the Australian Aboriginals do not have a written language. The Coniston massacre, which took place in the region around the Coniston cattle station in the then Territory of Central Australia (now the Northern Territory) from 14 August to 18 October 1928, was the last known officially sanctioned massacre of Indigenous Australians and one of the last events of the Australian Frontier Wars. This massacre occurred after Brooks’ body (a local dingo hunter and returned WW1soldier) was found with traditional weapons in a shallow grave. After his death, a reprisal party was formed and led on horseback by Mounted Constable George Murray. The party was made up of both civilians and police killing over 60 men women and children over three months in different local areas. This because a local by the name of Bullfrog who allegedly killed Brooks for supposedly interfering with his wife. The importance of the painting is in the number of rings formed from the center of the painting. They are small and run to the edge of the painting. You can see in the painting the women bringing food and the men meeting along with the dead spirits shown in white on male symbols. What can we do?
This important painting is done in acrylics on Belgian Linen in very fine detail and truly one of a kind. Size is 104 x 121 cm or 41 x 48 inches.


PHOTO & ART RESTORATION
Restaurant Menu Restoration
The backstory for this project is sweet. The client proposed to his wife at this restaurant in New York City and wanted his vintage restaurant menu cover restored as an anniversary present for her. From research online, McGinnis' seems to have opened in the late 1930's and closed in the late 1960's.
The original was very faded and scuffed, so the restoration required quite a bit of work often pixel by pixel working with small areas at a time.
The original was probably printed on heavy white card stock. We liked how it had aged to a rich beige color and decided to sample that color and keep it for the background.
Click the art above for a larger view. Actual size is 10.25" wide by 15" tall.
The original menu was printed in two spot colors, using a halftone for the bottom "wave" section (those teeny little dots in the background of this close-up). This made the "Famous for Sea Food" script unsalvageable. Photoshop just couldn't pick out the halftone from the letters everything was too blurred to target only the text. No problem: I simply redrew the type in vector illustration software by hand and placed it into the finished art (below).
© ART101.COM ®


Frank S. Roop, Jr. Scholarship
Scholarship for History MA students that supports research interests in the causes and consequences of the American Civil War, broadly construed. Applicants must write a one-page essay that explains how their specific interests relate to the purpose of the scholarship, describes any previous experience in Civil War studies, and discusses how this research will contribute to their career goals. Application essay should be mailed directly to the Department of History, Attn: Director of Graduate Studies, Mail Code 0117, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061.


165 years ago, baron Nikola Vranyczany built a brewery in Dubovac, a historic part of Karlovac. Some 40 years later, it was bought by Aschenbrenner, a brewer who refurbished and modernized the facility. In the post-WWII period, Karlovačka pivovara was gaining its biggest growth and progress and soon became one of the leading breweries in the former country. After the independence of Croatia, it became a joint-stock company owned by its employees. The new era began with HEINEKEN taking over the ownership in 2003, and since 2014 the second largest brewer in Croatia has been known as HEINEKEN Hrvatska.


Enjoy lunch or dinner for 2 people with hip-hop legend and child welfare advocate Darryl "DMC" McDaniels at the Hard Rock Cafe in New York City.
Innovator, motivator, and philanthropist Darryl “DMC” McDaniels changed music and made history when he broke down cultural barriers 25 years ago with his legendary band Run-DMC. Thirty million record sales later he continues to inspire the world. Run-DMC was the first rap group to grace the cover of Rolling Stone, the first to appear on MTV, and among the first to be nominated for a Grammy.
The proceeds for this item benefit Children's Rights.
Place your bid at CharityBuzz.com!


The French call a bow tie ‘Le Noeud Papillon’ which translates to ‘the knot of the butterfly’ and its history is derived originally from Croatian mercenaries during the Prussian wars of the 17th Century, who used a piece of cloth to shut close the collar of their shirts.
The French upper class adopted the fashion and called them ‘cravats’, derived from the French word for ‘Croat’ and with time the cravat evolved firstly into the bow tie and then later into the neck tie.
Today the bow tie is no longer reserved solely for formal occasions. It can be worn by all walks of life, expressing a different meaning for each individual. A bow tie can be worn as casually as a pochette, a scarf or a tie.
Le Noeud Papillon was founded in Sydney, Australia with the aim at providing beautiful finely made bow ties and accessories for the discerning man, or woman as we have seen more recently, anywhere in the world. We sell our bows and accessories to all four corners of the globe. Like W H Auden's quote, we endeavour to be 'like some valley cheese, local, but prized elsewhere'.
Our products are made in limited numbers to ensure that your personality is not lost in the crowd. To see what we do and what inspires us along the way, please log onto our blog at: www.lenoeudpapillon.blogspot.com


HISTORY MEETS YOUR STORY
At FLATS170, a colorful past meets a promising future. Take a quick look at the rich history of the site that inspires the growth of our community.
FLATS170 is completed offering high-end living to Odenton.
Construction started on FLATS170.
International Paper acquired the plant. The Fountainhead Division, on the current site of FLATS170, was sold by International Paper in 1999 to Formica Corporation. Formica sold the property in 2008 to the developer of Academy Yard. The balance of the plant was sold in 2002 to Kohlberg & Co., a merchant bank. Kohlberg ultimately moved the remaining plant and operations to South Carolina. In 2006, Kohlberg sold what remained of the company to a competitor and sold the abandoned Odenton property to the developer of Academy Yard.
The plant was acquired by a joint venture of textile producer JP Stevens and a division of what would become Exxon Corporation. The plant was later sold off in the 1970's to private investors (doing business as Nevamar Corporation) and other manufacturing companies (Vectra and Amtech). Nevamar Corporation acquired back the Vectra facilities in 1983.
Two 38-by-6½-foot mural paintings, depicting scenes of the Industrial Revolution, were commissioned by the Winer family for display in their company’s rotunda entrance. The Lithuanian artist Nathan Imenitoff was brought from Paris to Odenton to create the murals on site.
The art deco-style Nevamar factory was built by the Winer family as they relocated their cabinetmaking business from Baltimore to Odenton. Originally known as The National Plastic Products Company, the "plastics plant" was built using the former WB&A rail car maintenance shops, which the company acquired after the railroad’s bankruptcy in 1935. The company employed thousands of local residents in making paintbrush bristles, Barbie doll hair, textiles and even hula hoops, and was an innovator of high-pressure, plastic-based laminating technology.
The Washington, Baltimore & Annapolis Electric Railway (WB&A) starts service as an electrified, high-speed, interurban railroad that operates for 27 years. The WB&A includes the Naval Academy Junction station which is an essential transfer point for passengers traveling between Washington, Annapolis and Baltimore. This station and the adjacent rail car maintenance shops for the entire WB&A system are on or near the current FLATS170 site. The WB&A also owned the land that is now Fort George G. Meade, which it sold to the U.S. Army for a temporary training camp for soldiers, known as Camp Meade. It became a permanent establishment in 1928 and today is a major economic driver for the region.


Seventeen years before the American Civil War erupted, the J.S. Woodhouse Company was started by Joseph Stuyvesant Woodhouse. Mr. Woodhouse was an industrious and capable man from a prominent New York family.
Mr. Woodhouse opened a retail store to sell hand tools and horse-drawn farm equipment such as plows, harrows, planting equipment and corn shellers. The company distributed one of the very first horse-drawn manure spreaders which was manufactured in western New York (Weedsport, we believe). They also sold grape presses, butter molds, seed potato knives, and a variety of other agricultural related products to the farmers in Lower Manhattan County, New York City. Today, this area would encompass the area of Broadway and Wall Street, as well as the financial district of lower Manhattan.
Mr. Woodhouse's hard work and effort yielded a prosperous business and the respect of his peers. He added traveling salesmen, and had several locations throughout New York City on Pearl Street, Water Street, Front Street, and Broadway and Bricker Streets at the edge of the garment district. At that time, the city ended at 14th Street and the rural community began.
As New York City changed and grew, Woodhouse sold his equipment through the wholesale market on Long Island, and in New Jersey and New York. Joseph Stuvesant Woodhouse died in 1912, leaving the business to his two sons. Unfortunately, both sons died shortly thereafter and the business passed to two of Woodhouse's granddaughters. While the granddaughters had limited interest in the business, the company continued to operate through the 1920's and 30's under the guidance of a Mr. W.C. Cole.
On a parallel course, Mr. C.J. Reilly and Mr. Harold McGreevy were involved in the distribution of the Fordson Tractor on a national level. In 1939, Reilly and McGreevy imported the first Ford-Ferguson tractor with an internal hydraulic system. The tractor was a success, but Reilly and McGreevy needed farm implements to round out the line.
By 1941, the J.S. Woodhouse Company was doing poorly. Mr. Cole was 76 years old and his financial man, Howard Lane, was 74. The granddaughters, who were living in California, decided to sell the business.
C.J. Reilly saw the Woodhouse Company as a great opportunity in the wholesale "implement" business and opted to purchase the Woodhouse Company in 1941. The company was not in good shape, lacking the confidence of the manufacturers it represented. Through hard work, dedication, and good people, the J.S. Woodhouse Company rebounded within two years. The company regained the confidence of its suppliers and was established as an important link in the farm implement distribution business.
After the end of World War II, the company prospered and expanded throughout the Northeast United States. Ford Motor Company began selling direct to dealers, and J.S. Woodhouse Company elected to remain a wholesale distributor. By 1948, Woodhouse was distributing product lines such as Cobey, Little Giant, Electric Wheel, Smalley, Super Six, Turner Balers, True Temper Hand Tools, Harvey Manufacturing, Belt Elevators, Judson Bros., Buller Saw, Planet Jr., Garber Seeders, American Crop Drying Equipment Co., Galloway Manure Spreaders, and others. Harold McGreevy retired in 1949 with full control of the J.S. Woodhouse Company going to Charles Reilly and his two sons, William and Charles, Jr.
In the early 1950's, Howard Rotavator and Snowco Elevators were added to the product mix. The company progressed through the 1950's, 60's, 70's, 80's, and 90's, responding to the agricultural industry with changing lines of equipment. Several of the company's first product lines continue to be distributed by the J.S. Woodhouse Company today.
The J.S. Woodhouse Company is now operated by C.J. Reilly's three grandsons, Charles J. Reilly III, Robert C. Reilly, and William J. Reilly.
Since 1843, J.S. Woodhouse has distributed equipment through agricultural tractor and equipment dealers, as well as through lawn & garden tractor dealers. Although we sell exclusively through these dealers, we welcome inquiries from retail consumers and are happy to provide product information and a referral to the nearest local dealer for the product(s) of interest.
We offer a wide range of implements such as Agricultural, Forestry, Light Industrial, Skid Steer Attachments, Turf, and Lawn and Garden equipment.
Office and warehouse locations in Lewisberry, PA, Syracuse, NY, Fairfield, ME, and our main headquarters in West Springfield, MA, enable us to serve equipment dealers in 13 states throughout the Northeast including Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, and West Virginia.
To the best of our knowledge, Woodhouse is the oldest agricultural equipment distributor in North America.


The first political party in Maldivian history came into being on 23rd September 1951. Named ‘ Muthaga’dhim ‘, this party was led by Al-Ameer Mohamed Ameen Didi. As no other political parties existed at the time and there was no competitive political environment and democratic values were new, this party was only active during the Mohamed Ameen Didi’s government.
More than a half century later, a petition signed by 42 individuals requesting the registry of a political party was formally was submitted to Ministry of Home Affairs. The request was denied as the Attorney General at the time, Dr. Mohamed Munavvar counselled that the legal framework at the time did not permit for the existence of political parties.
As work towards developing a multiparty system in the Maldives went forward, the issue was put forward in the parliament where it was heavily debated upon. On 17th June 2001 a vote was taken and 43 members voted against creating a multiparty system in the Maldives. However, the work to develop political parties in the Maldives went on.
Maldives saw significant changes to its political scenario starting from September 2003. On 9th June 2004, President Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom gave a public speech about the importance of introducing a multi party democratic system.
United Nations Development Program, under special request from the government of Maldives, facilitated a research by National Democratic Institute, which works to promote democracy internationally. The research was focused on the opportunities and challenges to develop a multi party system in Maldives. The research, completed in December 2004 recommended to develop necessary changes to the legal framework to recognize political parties and other groups as there were active parties at the time.
Dr. Hassan Saeed, who was Attorney General in 2005, advised that the constitution does not prevent a multi party system from existing in Maldives. This paved the way for the creation of a Multi party system in Maldives.
Consequently, the issue of introducing multi party democracy was once again put forward into the agenda of the parliament. A vote was passed on 2nd June 2005 by 46 members in favor of a multi party system to allow the creation of parties under the freedom to create Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and Civil Society Organizations.
As such, on 4th June 2005, the president with power derived from article 42 of the constitution, issued a decree that permitted the registration of political parties and assigned the task of managing political parties to Minister of Home Affairs.
On 5th June 2005, Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) requested to be registered with 105 signatories. The following parties also submitted requests to be registered on the same date;
On 8th June 2005 Adhaalath Party requested to be registered with 50 signatories. Various parties have requested to be registered since the handing over of management of political parties to elections commission on 23rd August 2005.
The first party to be registered after necessary formalities was Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) led by G. Keneryge Mr.Mohamed Nasheed on 26th June 2005.


Photo from George Wu www.gulfmanncollection.blogspot.com
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Friday, February 12, 2010
Photo from George http://gulfmannflora.blogspot.com
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Love in Taipei
President office in Taipei
National History Museun in Taipei
National Palace Museum in Taipei
These photos are sent by George Gulfmann from Taipei, you are welcom to his nice blog:
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Friday, February 5, 2010
Here attached with one interesting picture,
one British typical public telephone in Taipei,
the picture was taken on August 31, 2009.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Here attached with three photos for your
blog "Post View From",
all the photos was taken on last November,
from Taipei MRT train, you can see all the
nice decoration drawings on the train, and
inside the MRT train.
Most of the MRT trains was designed with
different decorations, very nice to local
peoples and tourists.
If you need more photos, please let me
know, will sending more for you.
Here attached with some pictures, which was taken
on January 26, 2009 during the Chinese Lunar New Year,
Taiwan peoples gathering in the Lungshan Temple,
for lunar new year celebrations.
Lungshan Temple is one of oldest traditional temple
in Taiwan, over one hundred year history.


In 1920, in Detroit, Michigan, a police officer by the name of William Potts wanted a way to efficiently control the flow of traffic. The number of automobiles on the road had increased, which meant that the number of automobile related accidents also increased. He wanted a way to make the flow of traffic more tolerable to everyone. What he had in mind was the idea of using the same theory that of a railroad signal lights. He took parts from a railroad signal and added more wires and switch to create the first four-way three-color traffic light. Pott’s traffic light was first installed at a corner of an intersection in Detroit. Within a year more than a dozen of his traffics lights were installed throughout Detroit. With this four-way traffic light, it was made possible to control the flow of traffic in four directions. His invention worked very well on managing traffic flow. Meanwhile during the same time period an African American by the name of Garrett Morgan from Cleveland, Ohio, also noticed the traffic issues was on the rise since he is considered the first African American to own an automobile in Cleveland. Morgan invented an electric automatic traffic light, very much like Pott’s traffic light except that it was not a four-way traffic light. Unlike William Potts, Garrett Morgan patented his traffic light on November 12, 1923. The modern day traffic light that we use today though is from William Pott’s prototype that he invented.


Coffee is one of the most consumed beverages in the entire world. It dates back to the 15th century with some saying a late 15th goat herder was responsible for its discovery! The popularity and liking for coffee as a beverage can be gauged by the fact that its consumption is approximately one-third of the volume of water consumed in the United States and Europe. The coffee drink is prepared from seeds, customarily referred to as beans, of the coffee plant. It’s a great drink that helps kick-start your day. Currently, it’s grown across the tropical and exported to other parts of the world. But, have you ever wondered, how and where it originated from.
Well, coffee is said to have originated from Ethiopia. It is believed to have been discovered by a goat shepherd by the name Kaldi. Kaldi recognized the plant when he noticed a change in behavior when his goats ate the leaves and fruits from that particular bush. The goats appeared to be energetic, happy and dancing all over after eating the coffee fruits and leaves. Kaldi, therefore, got curious and tried out the berry. He then felt a rush of energy all over his body, and that’s how it was discovered. History traces this occurrence to around 800-900 AD.
The origin of coffee is said to be a placed called Kaffa, in Ethiopia. It’s because the plant thrives exceptionally well in that particular area unlike elsewhere in the entire world that made it dominant. Coffee is also the main cash crop grown in Ethiopia. History, however, doesn’t adequately account for where coffee got its name. The Ethiopians referred to coffee as bunn or bunna, whereas the Turkish referred to it as per the plant’s Arabic name, kahve qahwa.
The bottom line is that those who discovered the plant were after its stimulating effects. Whoever came across the plant was amazed by its impact, and it slowly began being adapted and used. The natives from Ethiopia used to boil the leaves and drink the mixture or rather eat the fruits raw.
Coffee was first documented around 900 AD, and after that, it was described as a medicine by a physician known as Razi. Razi confirmed how its beverage contained numerous healing properties. From Ethiopia, however, coffee moved to Yemen which is on the other side of the red sea. Here, it was a favorite beverage and was widely used by the Sufi Monks to get the stamina to be able to pray all night long. All this occurred around the 15th century.
In the 16th Century, the Ottoman Empire distributed coffee to other places, which was after Turkey conquered the Arabian Peninsula. It was hugely appreciated in the Arabian Peninsula and Turkey, mostly because alcohol was prohibited among Muslims. It is where it got the name khave which means wine of Arabia; this led to the opening up of coffee houses in different places. The first one being in modern-day Istanbul around 1550 to 1560. Other coffee houses were opened in Medina, Cairo, and Damascus.
At the beginning of the 17th century, coffee found its way into Europe. It took around 200 years to reach Europe from the Middle East and was received with open arms. Here, it was brought by the Venice Merchants. At first, it was met by lots of opposition by the Catholic Church. However as time passed by, it was significantly embraced by the Christians. The first coffee house in Venice was opened up in 1645. Other European countries began growing coffee on their farms, most of them being European traders and travelers who praised the black beverage from the Middle-East.
On the onset of the 18th Century, the Dutch started their coffee plantation of Java. Java grew to become a known source of coffee production. France borrowed some plants and began producing them in the year 1720, which marked the spread of coffee all over Europe. It significantly replaced beer and wine. Several coffee joints were opened, and coffee moved from being a breakfast drink to an every time drink.
Later in 1726, coffee made its way to Central and South America. Brazil which has a tropical climate began the growing and cultivation of coffee, and up to date, it’s the biggest producer of coffee in the world. But in the United States, it is only grown in Hawaii. However, US imports tons and tons of coffee because of its high demand.
We owe it to the colonialists, traders, explorers, and missionaries who brought coffee all the way from Africa; were it not for their efforts, coffee wouldn’t have been distributed worldwide. The taste of coffee highly depends not only on the tropical climate but geographical location as well. Therefore, the next time you will be enjoying your hot cup of coffee, give thanks to Kaldi the shepherd who discovered it and his goats.


Today is George Washington’s birthday! He would be 281 years old today. Here are some interesting facts about George Washington (from buzzle.com):
Our quarter has a picture of George Washington on it. But George Washington didn’t know that – he wouldn’t even know what a quarter was! When Washington was president in the late 1700’s, the currency in use was a British system full of pence, shillings, and farthings. George Washington’s face did not appear on the quarter until 1932! It was meant as a commemorative model to celebrate his bicentennial, but instead it became the long-lasting quarter design (Wikipedia.com).
Let’s do a math puzzle using the currency Washington would have used.
George left his home in Mount Vernon one morning, and on the way to work decided to stop and buy a few gifts for his wife, Martha. He bought her a checkerboard that cost 2 shillings, 6 pence, 1 farthings and a fancy new dress that cost 1/2 guinea and 9 shillings. He gave the shopkeeper 1 pound and 1 guinea.
Check back tomorrow, we’ll show our work and give the answers!


Freres Lumber Co., Inc was established in 1922 when T.G. Freres was approached by a banker and asked to take over a financially troubled sawmill in the North Santiam Canyon. The Company operated around the North Fork of the Santiam River until the mid-1940’s.
Lumber planing and loading facilities were constructed in Lyons, Oregon in 1941 where the Company is currently headquartered. All sawmill operations were moved to Lyons between 1947 and 1948 with the construction of a new sawmill.
In 1959, as plywood became increasingly competitive with lumber, T.G entered into a joint venture with Willamette Industries to build and operate a large log veneer manufacturing plant named Freres Veneer Co. The Company built a small-log veneer plant of its own in 1963, and eventually purchased Willamette’s share in Freres Veneer Co in 1980, which ended a 21 year relationship.
Since that time, Freres Lumber Co., Inc. has steadily grown with the purchase of additional facilities. In 1989 the company purchased a neighboring veneer plant and veneer drying facility. The veneer drying facility is currently operated at the Company’s facility in Lyons. In 1998 the Company purchased a plywood plant out of bankruptcy in order to vertically integrate operations. In 2007 the Company constructed a cogeneration facility onsite, supplying steam for veneer drying and block conditioning, and delivering electricity to the surrounding area. Throughout the Company’s long life, we have focused on maintaining modern manufacturing facilities, providing high-quality wood products, and providing family wage jobs to the local area.


Arch of Triumph
Arch of Triumph is a monument of architecture and cultural heritage, which commemorates the victory of the Romanian armies in the First World War, the emergence of Greater Romania and the coronation of King Ferdinand I & Queen Maria.
But for the the Arch of Triumph to remain a valuable historical monument and for it to be open to the public & Tourist Circuit it’s required both engineering & communication strategy to strengthen it. The 2014-2015 objective for this project is to restore and preserve the historical monument, maintaining both its cultural heritage and including it in Bucharest's Tourist Circuit.
The project targets cultural tourism, in order to save it from impairment. Based on the complex development of this project, we aim to increase the number of tourists by about 6% in the first five years after 2015.
Furthermore, we want to develop 12 permanent jobs, maintain 20 jobs during project’s implementation, ensuring a properly interior space for both visitors and indoor heritage – by featuring specific machinery and equipment.
The project also aims to provide access via pedestrian roads to Arc within the area of protection, thus improving access to the monument.
The project will be implemented through a grant awarded by Regio Regional Operational Programme 2007 – 2013, Priority Axis 5 "Sustainable development and tourism promotion", Key Area of Intervention 5.1 "Restoration and sustainable cultural heritage and the creation / modernization related infrastructure ".


37 Smith Street. Singapore 058950
Contact No: 6221 3822
Business Hour: 11am to 10:30PM
Fatty Weng is conveniently located in a historic shophouse in the heart of Chinatown, at the corner junction of Smith Street and Trengganu Street.
Our location is easily accessible by train, bus or private car.
Closest MRT station: Chinatown MRT (NE4). From the Chinatown MRT station, it is a 5-min scenic stroll (~400 m) through heritage shophouses.
Closest bus stop: the People’s Park Complex along New Bridge Road. Bus numbers: 2, 12, 33, 61, 63, 80, 143, 197, 961, 961C, 970, CT8, CT18, CT28. There is another bus stop opposite the famous Sri Mariamman Temple on the opposite end of Smith Street. Bus numbers are 61, 166, 197.
Please note that Smith Street is a one-way street and part of Smith Street is pedestrian (not accessible to cars). Public parking for private cars is conveniently located nearby at Chinatown Complex – Blk 335B Smith Street (Multi-storey) or in Oriental Plaza. Alternative parking can be found behind Fatty Weng: the open parking near Sago Lane and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum building.


“Israelites Came To Ancient Japan “
“The Eye of Cain”
THE BIBLICAL HEBREW ORIGINS OF THE JAPANESE PEOPLE.
Posted Wednesday, December 31st 2008 at 10:19PM, “Black in America”,
“The Hebrew-Israelites and Ancient Japan”
“Israelites Came To Ancient Japan “
Many of the traditional ceremonies in Japan seem to indicate that the Lost Tribes of Israel came to ancient Japan.
Dear friends in the world,
I am a Japanese Christian writer living in Japan. As I study the Bible, I began to realize that many traditional customs and ceremonies in Japan are very similar to the ones of ancient Israel. I considered that perhaps these rituals came from the religion and customs of the Jews and the Ten Lost Tribes of Israel who might have come to ancient Japan.
The following sections are concerned with those Japanese traditions, which possibly originated from the ancient Israelites.
The reason why I exhibit these on the internet is to enable anyone interested in this subject, especially Jewish friends to become more interested, research it for yourself, and share your findings.
The ancient kingdom of Israel, which consisted of 12 tribes, was in 933 B.C.E. divided into the southern kingdom of Judah and the northern kingdom of Israel. The 10 tribes out of 12 belonged to the northern kingdom and the rest to the southern kingdom. The descendants from the southern kingdom are called Jews. The people of the northern kingdom were exiled to Assyria in 722 B.C.E. and did not come back to Israel. They are called "the Ten Lost Tribes of Israel." They were scattered to the four corners of the earth. We find the descendants of the Israelites not only in the western world, but also in the eastern world especially along the Silk Road. The following peoples are thought by Jewish scholars to be the descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of Israel.
They live in Afghanistan. Yusufzai means children of Joseph. They have customs of ancient Israelites.
They live in Afghanistan and Pakistan. They have the customs of circumcision on the 8th day, fringes of robe, Sabbath, Kashrut, Tefilin, etc.
In Kashmir they have the same land names as were in the ancient northern kingdom of Israel. They have the feast of Passover and the legend that they came from Israel.
In India there are people called Knanites, which means people of Canaan. They speak Aramaic and use the Aramaic Bible.
In Myanmar (Burma) and India live Menashe tribe. Menashe is Manasseh, and the Menashe tribe is said to be the descendants from the tribe of Manasseh, one of the Ten Lost Tribes of Israel. They have ancient Israeli customs.
They live in China and have ancient Israeli customs. They believe in one God and have oral tradition that they came from far west. They say that their ancestor had 12 sons. They have customs of Passover, purification, levirate marriage, etc. as ancient Israelites.
It is known that there had been a large Jewish community since the time of B.C.E..
I am going to discuss this on this website.
A Japanese Festival Illustrates the Story of Isaac.
In Nagano prefecture, Japan, there is a large Shinto shrine named "Suwa-Taisha" (Shinto is the national traditional religion peculiar to Japan.)
At Suwa-Taisha, the traditional festival called "Ontohsai" is held on April 15 every year (When the Japanese used the lunar calendar it was March-April). This festival illustrates the story of Isaac in chapter 22 of Genesis in the Bible - when Abraham was about to sacrifice his own son, Isaac. The "Ontohsai" festival, held since ancient days, is judged to be the most important festival of "Suwa-Taisha."
The "Suwa-Taisha" shrine
At the back of the shrine "Suwa-Taisha," there is a mountain called Mt. Moriya ("Moriya-san" in Japanese). The people from the Suwa area call the god of Mt. Moriya "Moriya no kami," which means, the "god of Moriya." This shrine is built to worship the "god of Moriya."
At the festival, a boy is tied up by a rope to a wooden pillar, and placed on a bamboo carpet. A Shinto priest comes to him preparing a knife, and he cuts a part of the top of the wooden pillar, but then a messenger (another priest) comes there, and the boy is released. This is reminiscent of the Biblical story in which Isaac was released after an angel came to Abraham.
The knife and sword used in the "Ontohsai" festival
At this festival, animal sacrifices are also offered. 75 deer are sacrificed, but among them it is believed that there is a deer with its ear split. The deer is considered to be the one God prepared. It could have had some connection with the ram that God prepared and was sacrificed after Isaac was released. Since the ram was caught in the thicket by the horns, the ear might have been split.
In ancient time of Japan there were no sheep and it might be the reason why they used deer (deer is Kosher). Even in historic times, people thought that this custom of deer sacrifice was strange, because animal sacrifice is not a Shinto tradition.
A deer with its ears split
People call this festival "the festival for Misakuchi-god". "Misakuchi" might be "mi-isaku-chi." "Mi" means "great," "isaku" is most likely Isaac (the Hebrew word "Yitzhak"), and "chi" is something for the end of the word. It seems that the people of Suwa made Isaac a god, probably by the influence of idol worshipers.
Today, this custom of the boy about to be sacrificed and then released, is no longer practiced, but we can still see the custom of the wooden pillar called "oniye-basira," which means, "sacrifice-pillar."
The "oniye-bashira" on which the boy is supposed to be tied up
Currently, people use stuffed animals instead of performing a real animal sacrifice. Tying a boy along with animal sacrifice was regarded as savage by people of the Meiji-era (about 100 years ago), and those customs were discontinued. However, the festival itself still remains.
The custom of the boy had been maintained until the beginning of Meiji era. Masumi Sugae, who was a Japanese scholar and a travel writer in the Edo era (about 200 years ago), wrote a record of his travels and noted what he saw at Suwa. The record shows the details of "Ontohsai." It tells that the custom of the boy about to be sacrificed and his ultimate release, as well as animal sacrifices that existed those days. His records are kept at the museum near Suwa-Taisha.
The festival of "Ontohsai" has been maintained by the Moriya family ever since ancient times. The Moriya family think of "Moriya-no-kami" (god of Moriya) as their ancestor's god. They also consider "Mt. Moriya" as their holy place. The name, "Moriya," could have come from "Moriah" (the Hebrew word "Moriyyah") of Genesis 22:2, that is today's Temple Mount of Jerusalem. Among Jews, God of Moriah means the one true God whom the Bible teaches.
The Moriya family have been hosting the festival for 78 generations. And the curator of the museum said to me that the faith in the god of Moriya had existed among the people since the time of B.C.E..
Apparently, no other country but Japan has a festival illustrating the biblical story of Abraham and Isaac. This tradition appears to provide strong evidence that the ancient Israelites came to ancient Japan.
The Crest of the Imperial House of Japan Is the Same As That Found On the Gate of Jerusalem.
The crest of the Imperial House of Japan is a round mark in the shape of a flower with 16 petals. The current shape appears as a chrysanthemum (mum), but scholars say that in ancient times, it appeared similar to a sunflower. The sunflower appearance is the same as the mark at Herod's gate in Jerusalem. The crest at Herod's gate also has 16 petals. This crest of the Imperial House of Japan has existed since very ancient times. The same mark as the one at Herod's gate is found on the relics of Jerusalem from the times of the Second Temple, and also on Assyrian relics from the times of B.C.E..
The mark on Herod's gate at Jerusalem (left) and the crest of the Imperial House of Japan (right)
Japanese Religious Priests "Yamabushi" Put A Black Box on their Foreheads Just As Jews Put A Phylactery on their Foreheads.
"Yamabushi" is a religious man in training unique to Japan. Today, they are thought to belong to Japanese Buddhism. However, Buddhism in China, Korea and India have no such custom. The custom of "yamabushi" existed in Japan before Buddhism was imported into Japan in the seventh century.
On the forehead of "Yamabushi," he puts a black small box called a "tokin", which is tied to his head with a black cord. He greatly resembles a Jew putting on a phylactery (black box) on his forehead with a black cord. The size of this black box "tokin" is almost the same as the Jewish phylactery, but its shape is round and flower-like.
A "yamabushi" with a "tokin" blowing a horn
Originally the Jewish phylactery placed on the forehead seems to have come from the forehead "plate" put on the high priest Aaron with a cord (Exodus 28:36-38). It was about 4 centimeters (1.6 inches) in size according to folklore, and some scholars maintain that it was flower-shaped. If so, it was very similar to the shape of the Japanese "tokin" worn by the "yamabushi".
A Jew with a phylactery blowing a shofar
Israel and Japan are the only two countries that in the world I know of that use of the black forehead box for religious purpose.
Furthermore, the "yamabushi" use a big seashell as a horn. This is very similar to Jews blowing a shofar or ram's horn. The way it is blown and the sounds of the "yamabushi's" horn are very similar to those of a shofar. Because there are no sheep in Japan, the "yamabushi" had to use seashell horns instead of rams' horns.
"Yamabushis" are people who regard mountains as their holy places for religious training. The Israelites also regarded mountains as their holy places. The Ten Commandments of the Torah were given on Mt. Sinai. Jerusalem is a city on a mountain. Jesus (Yeshua) used to climb up the mountain to pray. His apparent transfiguration also occurred on a mountain.
In Japan, there is the legend of "Tengu" who lives on a mountain and has the figure of a "yamabushi". He has a pronounced nose and supernatural capabilities. A "ninja", who was an agent or spy in the old days, while working for his lord, goes to "Tengu" at the mountain to get from him supernatural abilities. "Tengu" gives him a "tora-no-maki" (a scroll of the "tora") after giving him additional powers. This "scroll of the tora" is regarded as a very important book, which is helpful for any crisis. Japanese use this word sometimes in their current lives.
There is no knowledge that a real scroll of a Jewish Torah was ever found in a Japanese historical site. However, it appears this "scroll of the tora" is a derivation of the Jewish Torah.
Japanese "Omikoshi" Resembles the Ark of the Covenant.
In the Bible, in First Chronicles, chapter 15, it is written that David brought up the ark of the covenant of the Lord into Jerusalem.
"David and the elders of Israel and the commanders of units of a thousand went to bring up the ark of the covenant of the LORD from the house of Obed-Edom, with rejoicing. ...Now David was clothed in a robe of fine linen, as were all the Levites who were carrying the ark, and as were the singers, and Kenaniah, who was in charge of the singing of the choirs. David also wore a linen ephod. So all Israel brought up the ark of the covenant of the LORD with shouts, with the sounding of rams' horns and trumpets, and of cymbals, and the playing of lyres and harps." (15:25-28)
Illustration of Israeli people carrying the Ark of the Covenant
When I read these passages, I think; "How well does this look like the scene of Japanese people carrying our 'omikoshi' during festivals? The shape of the Japanese 'Omikoshi' appears similar to the ark of the covenant. Japanese sing and dance in front of it with shouts, and to the sounds of musical instruments. These are quite similar to the customs of ancient Israel."
Japanese "Omikoshi" ark
Japanese carry the "omikoshi" on their shoulders with poles - usually two poles. So did the ancient Israelites:
"The Levites carried the ark of God with poles on their shoulders, as Moses had commanded in accordance with the word of the LORD." (1 Chronicles 15:15)
The Israeli ark of the covenant had two poles (Exodus 25:10-15).
Some restored models of the ark as it was imagined to be have used two poles on the upper parts of the ark. But the Bible says those poles were to be fastened to the ark by the four rings "on its four feet" (Exodus 25:12). Hence, the poles must have been attached on the bottom of the ark. This is similar to the Japanese "omikoshi."
The Israeli ark had two statues of gold cherubim on its top. Cherubim are a type of angel, heavenly being having wings like birds. Japanese "omikoshi" also have on its top the gold bird called "Ho-oh" which is an imaginary bird and a mysterious heavenly being.
The entire Israeli ark was overlaid with gold. Japanese "omikoshi" are also overlaid partly and sometimes entirely with gold. The size of an "omikoshi" is almost the same as the Israeli ark. Japanese "omikoshi" could be a remnant of the ark of ancient Israel.
Many Things Concerning the Ark Resemble Japanese Customs.
King David and people of Israel sang and danced to the sounds of musical instruments in front of the ark. We Japanese sing and dance to the sounds of musical instruments in front of "omikoshi" as well.
Several years ago, I saw an American-made movie titled "King David" which was a faithful story of the life of King David. In the movie, David was seen dancing in front of the ark while it was being carried into Jerusalem. I thought: "If the scenery of Jerusalem were replaced by Japanese scenery, this scene would be just the same as what can be observed in Japanese festivals." The atmosphere of the music also resembles the Japanese style. David's dancing appears similar to Japanese traditional dancing.
At the Shinto shrine festival of "Gion-jinja" in Kyoto, men carry "omikoshi," then enter a river, and cross it. I can't help but think this originates from the memory of the Ancient Israelites carrying the ark as they crossed the Jordan river after their exodus from Egypt.
In a Japanese island of the Inland Sea of Seto, the men selected as the carriers of the "omikoshi" stay together at a house for one week before they would carry the "omikoshi." This is to prevent profaning themselves. Furthermore on the day before they carry "omikoshi," the men bathe in seawater to sanctify themselves. This is similar to an ancient Israelite custom:
"So the priests and the Levites sanctified themselves to bring up the ark of the Lord God of Israel." (1 Chronicles 15:14)
The Bible says that after the ark entered Jerusalem and the march was finished, "David distributed to everyone of Israel, both man and woman, to everyone a loaf of bread, a piece of meat, and a cake of raisins" (1 Chronicles 16:3). This is similar to a Japanese custom. Sweets are distributed to everyone after a Japanese festival. It was a delight during my childhood.
The Robe of Japanese Priests Resembles the Robe of Israeli Priests.
The Bible says that when David brought up the ark into Jerusalem, "David was clothed in a robe of fine linen" (1 Chronicles 15:27). The same was true for the priests and choirs. In the Japanese Bible, this verse is translated into "robe of white linen."
In ancient Israel, although the high priest wore a colorful robe, ordinary priests wore simple white linen. Priests wore white clothes at holy events. Japanese priests also wear white robes at holy events.
In Ise-jingu, one of the oldest Japanese shrines, all of the priests wear white robes. And in many Japanese Shinto shrines, especially traditional ones, the people wear white robes when they carry the "omikoshi" just like the Israelites did.
Buddhist priests wear luxurious colorful robes. However, in the Japanese Shinto religion, white is regarded as the holiest color.
The Emperor of Japan, just after he finishes the ceremony of his accession to the throne, appears alone in front of the Shinto god. When he arrives there, he wears a pure white robe covering his entire body except that his feet are naked. This is similar to the action of Moses and Joshua who removed their sandals in front of God to be in bare feet (Exodus 3:5, Joshua 5:15).
Marvin Tokayer, a rabbi who lived in Japan for 10 years, wrote in his book:
"The linen robes which Japanese Shinto priests wear have the same figure as the white linen robes of the ancient priests of Israel. "
Japanese Shinto priest in white robe with fringes.
The Japanese Shinto priest robe has cords of 20-30 centimeters long (about 10 inches) hung from the corners of the robe. These fringes are similar to those of the ancient Israelites. Deuteronomy 22:12 says:
"Make them fringes in the... corners of their garments throughout their generations."
Fringes (tassels) were a token that a person was an Israelite. In the gospels of the New Testament, it is also written that the Pharisees "make their tassels on their garments long" (Matthew 23:5). A woman who had been suffering from a hemorrhage came to Jesus (Yeshua) and touched the "tassel on His coat" (Matthew 9:20, The New Testament: A Translation in the Language of the People, translated by Charles B. Williams).
Imagined pictures of ancient Israeli clothing sometimes do not have fringes. But their robes actually had fringes. The Jewish Tallit (prayer shawl), which the Jews put on when they pray, has fringes in the corners according to tradition.
Japanese Shinto priests wear on their robe a rectangle of cloth from their shoulders to thighs. This is the same as the ephod worn by David:
"David also wore a linen ephod." (1 Chronicles 15:27)
Although the ephod of the high priest was colorful with jewels, the ordinary priests under him wore the ephods of simple white linen cloth (1 Samuel 22:18). Rabbi Tokayer states that the rectangle of cloth on the robe of Japanese Shinto priest looks very similar to the ephod of the Kohen, the Jewish priest.
The Japanese Shinto priest puts a cap on his head just like Israeli priest did (Exodus 29:40). The Japanese priest also puts a sash on his waist. So did the Israeli priest. The clothing of Japanese Shinto priests appears to be similar to the clothing used by ancient Israelites.
Waving the Sheaf of Harvest Is Also the Custom of Japan.
The Jews wave a sheaf of their first fruits of grain seven weeks before Shavuot (Pentecost, Leviticus 23:10-11), They also wave a sheaf of plants at Sukkot (the Feast of Booths, Leviticus 23:40). This has been a tradition since the time of Moses. Ancient Israeli priests also waved a plant branch when he sanctifies someone. David said, "Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean" [Psalm 51:7(9)]. This is also a traditional Japanese custom.
Shinto priest waving for sanctification
When a Japanese priest sanctifies someone or something, he waves a tree branch. Or he waves a "harainusa," which is made of a stick and white papers and looks like a plant. Today's "harainusa" is simplified and made of white papers that are folded in a zigzag pattern like small lightning bolts, but in old days it was a plant branch or cereals.
A Japanese Christian woman acquaintance of mine used to think of this "harainusa" as merely a pagan custom. But she later went to the U.S.A. and had an opportunity to attend a Sukkot ceremony. When she saw the Jewish waving of the sheaf of the harvest, she shouted in her heart, "Oh, this is the same as a Japanese priest does! Here lies the home for the Japanese."
The Structure of the Japanese Shinto Shrine is Similar to God's Tabernacle of Ancient Israel.
The inside of God's tabernacle in ancient Israel was divided into two parts. The first was the Holy Place, and the second was the Holy of Holies. The Japanese Shinto shrine is also divided into two parts.
The functions performed in the Japanese shrine are similar to those of the Israeli tabernacle. Japanese pray in front of its Holy Place. They cannot enter inside. Only Shinto priests and special ones can enter. Shinto priest enters the Holy of Holies of the Japanese shrine only at special times. This is similar to the Israeli tabernacle.
The Japanese Holy of Holies is located usually in far west or far north of the shrine. The Israeli Holy of Holies was located in far west of the temple. Shinto's Holy of Holies is also located on a higher level than the Holy Place, and between them are steps. Scholars state that, in the Israeli temple built by Solomon, the Holy of Holies was on an elevated level as well, and between them there were steps of about 2.7 meters (9 feet) in width.
Typical Japanese Shinto shrine
In front of a Japanese shrine, there are two statues of lions known as "komainu" that sit on both sides of the approach. They are not idols but guards for the shrine. This was also a custom of ancient Israel. In God's temple in Israel and in the palace of Solomon, there were statues or relieves of lions (1 Kings 7:36, 10:19).
"Komainu" guards for shrine
In the early history of Japan, there were absolutely no lions. But the statues of lions have been placed in Japanese shrines since ancient times. It has been proven by scholars that statues of lions located in front of Japanese shrines originated from the Middle East.
Located near the entrance of a Japanese shrine is a "temizuya" - a place for worshipers to wash their hands and mouth. They used to wash their feet, too, in old days. This is a similar custom as is found in Jewish synagogues. The ancient tabernacle and temple of Israel also had a laver for washing hands and feet near the entrances.
In front of a Japanese shrine, there is a gate called the "torii." The type gate does not exist in China or in Korea, it is peculiar to Japan. The "torii" gate consists of two vertical pillars and a bar connecting the upper parts. But the oldest form consists of only two vertical pillars and a rope connecting the upper parts. When a Shinto priest bows to the gate, he bows to the two pillars separately. It is assumed that the "torii" gate was originally constructed of only two pillars.
In the Israeli temple, there were two pillars used as a gate (1 Kings 7:21). And in Aramaic language, which ancient Israelites used, the word for gate was "taraa." This word might have changed slightly and become the Japanese "torii".
Some "toriis," especially of old shrines, are painted red. I can't help but think this is a picture of the two doorposts and the lintel on which the blood of the lamb was put the night before the exodus from Egypt.
In the Japanese Shinto religion, there is a custom to surround a holy place with a rope called the "shimenawa," which has slips of white papers inserted along the bottom edge of the rope. The "shimenawa" rope is set as the boundary. The Bible says that when Moses was given God's Ten Commandments on Mt. Sinai, he "set bounds" (Exodus 19:12) around it for the Israelites not to approach. Although the nature of these "bounds" is not known, ropes might have been used. The Japanese "shimenawa" rope might then be a custom that originates from the time of Moses. The zigzag pattern of white papers inserted along the rope reminds me of the thunders at Mt. Sinai.
The major difference between a Japanese Shinto shrine and the ancient Israeli temple is that the shrine does not have the burning altar for animal sacrifices. I used to wonder why Shinto religion does not have the custom of animal sacrifices if Shinto originated from the religion of ancient Israel.
But then I found the answer in Deuteronomy, chapter 12. Moses commanded the people not to offer any animal sacrifices at any other locations except at specific places in Canaan (12:10-14). Hence, if the Israelites came to ancient Japan, they would not be permitted to offer animal sacrifices.
Shinto shrine is usually build on a mountain or a hill. Almost every mountain in Japan has a shrine, even you find a shrine on top of Mt. Fuji. In ancient Israel, on mountains were usually located worship places called "the high places". The temple of Jerusalem was built on a mountain (Mt. Moriah). Moses was given the Ten Commandments from God on Mt. Sinai. It was thought in Israel that mountain is a place close to God.
Many Shinto shrines are built with the gates in the east and the Holy of Holies in the west as we see in Matsuo grand shrine (Matuo-taisya) in Kyoto and others. While, others are built with the gates in the south and the Holy of Holies in the north. The reason of building with the gates in the east (and the Holy of Holies in the west) is that the sun comes from the east. The ancient Israeli tabernacle or temple was built with the gate in the east and the Holy of Holies in the west, based on the belief that the glory of God comes from the east.
All Shinto shrines are made of wood. Many parts of the ancient Israeli temple was also made of wood. The Israelites used stones in some places, but walls, floors, ceilings and all of the insides were overlaid with wood (1 Kings 6:9, 15-18), which was cedars from Lebanon (1 Kings 5:6). In Japan they do not have cedars from Lebanon, so in Shinto shrines they use Hinoki cypress, which is hardly eaten by bugs like cedars from Lebanon.
The wood of the ancient Israeli temple was all overlaid with gold (1 Kings 6:20-30). In Japan the important parts of the main shrine of Ise-jingu, for instance, are overlaid with gold.
Many Japanese Customs Resemble Those of Ancient Israel.
When Japanese people pray in front of the Holy Place of a Shinto shrine, they firstly ring the golden bell, which is hung at the center of the entrance. This was also the custom of the ancient Israel. The high priest Aaron put "bells of gold" on the hem of his robe. This was so that its sound might be heard and he might not die when ministered there (Exodus 28:33-35).
Golden bell at the entrance of Shinto shrine
Japanese people clap their hands two times when they pray there. This was, in ancient Israel, the custom to mean, "I keep promises." In the Scriptures, you can find the word, which is translated into "pledge." The original meaning of this word in Hebrew is, "clap his hand" (Ezekiel 17:18, Proverbs 6:1). It seems that the ancient Israelites clapped their hands when they pledged or did something important.
Japanese people bow in front of the shrine before and after clapping their hands and praying. They also perform a bow as a polite greeting when they meet each other. To bow was also the custom of the ancient Israel. Jacob bowed when he was approaching Esau (Genesis 33:3).
Ordinarily, contemporary Jews do not bow. However, they bow when reciting prayers. Modern Ethiopians have the custom of bowing, probably because of the ancient Jews who immigrated to Ethiopia in ancient days. The Ethiopian bow is similar to the Japanese bow.
We Japanese have the custom to use salt for sanctification. People sometimes sow salt after an offensive person leaves. When I was watching a TV drama from the times of the Samurai, a woman threw salt on the place where a man she hated left. This custom is the same as that of the ancient Israelites. After Abimelech captured an enemy city, "he sowed it with salt" (Judges 9:45). We Japanese quickly interpret this to mean to cleanse and sanctify the city.
I hear that when Jews move to a new house they sow it with salt to sanctify it and cleanse it. This is true also in Japan. In Japanese-style restaurants, they usually place salt near the entrance. Jews use salt for Kosher meat. All Kosher meat is purified with salt and all meals start with bread and salt.
Japanese people place salt at the entrance of a funeral home. After coming back from a funeral, one has to sprinkle salt on oneself before entering his/her house. It is believed in Shinto that anyone who went to a funeral or touched a dead body had become unclean. Again, this is the same concept as was observed by the ancient Israelites.
Japanese "sumo" wrestler sowing with salt
Japanese "sumo" wrestlers sow the sumo ring with salt before they fight. European or American people wonder why they sow salt. But Rabbi Tokayer wrote that Jews quickly understand its meaning.
Japanese people offer salt every time they perform a religious offering, This is the same custom used by the Israelites:
"With all your offerings you shall offer salt." (Leviticus 2:13)
Japanese people in old times had the custom of putting some salt into their baby's first bath. The ancient Israelites washed a newborn baby with water after rubbing the baby softly with salt (Ezekiel 16:4). Sanctification and cleansing with salt and/or water is a common custom among both the Japanese and the ancient Israelites.
In the Hebrew Scriptures, the words "clean" and "unclean" often appear. Europeans and Americans are not familiar with this concept, but the Japanese understand it. A central concept of Shinto is to value cleanness and to avoid uncleanness. This concept probably came from ancient Israel.
Similar to Judaism, in Japanese Shinto Religion, There Are No Idols
Buddhist temples have idols, which are carved in the shape of Buddha and other gods. However in Japanese Shinto shrines, there are no idols. In the center of the Holy of Holies of a Shinto shrine, there is a mirror, sword, or pendant. Nevertheless, Shinto believers do not regard these items as their gods. In Shinto, gods are thought to be invisible. The mirror, sword, and pendant are not idols but merely objects to show that it is a holy place where invisible gods come down.
In the ark of the covenant of ancient Israel, there were stone tablets of God's Ten Commandments, a jar of manna and the rod of Aaron. These were not idols, but objects to show that it was the holy place where the invisible God comes down. The same thing can be said concerning the objects in Japanese shrines.
Old Japanese Words Have Hebrew Origin.
Joseph Eidelberg, a Jew who once came to Japan and remained for years at a Japanese Shinto shrine, wrote a book entitled "The Japanese and the Ten Lost Tribes of Israel." He wrote that many Japanese words originated from ancient Hebrew.
For instance, we Japanese say "hazukashime" to mean disgrace or humiliation. In Hebrew, it is "hadak hashem" (tread down the name; see Job 40:12). The pronunciation and the meaning of both of them are almost the same.
We say "anta" to mean "you," which is the same in Hebrew. Kings in ancient Japan were called with the word "mikoto," which could be derived from a Hebrew word "malhuto" which means "his kingdom." The Emperor of Japan is called "mikado." This resembles the Hebrew word, "migadol," which means "the noble." The ancient Japanese word for an area leader is "agata-nushi;" "agata" is "area" and "nushi" is "leader." In Hebrew, they are called "aguda"and "nasi."
When we Japanese count, "One, two, three... ten," we sometimes say:
"Hi, fu, mi, yo, itsu, mu, nana, ya, kokono, towo."
This is a traditional expression, but its meaning is unknown it is thought of as being Japanese.
It has been said that this expression originates from an ancient Japanese Shinto myth. In the myth, the female god, called "Amaterasu," who manages the world's sunlight, once hid herself in a heavenly cave, and the world became dark. Then, according to the oldest book of Japanese history, the priest called "Koyane" prayed with words before the cave and in front of the other gods to have "Amaterasu" come out. Although the words said in the prayer are not written, a legend says that these words were, "Hi, fu, mi...."
"Amaterasu" is hiding in a heavenly cave; "Koyane" is praying and "Uzume" is dancing.
Joseph Eidelberg stated that this is a beautiful Hebrew expression, if it is supposed that there were some pronunciation changes throughout history. These words are spelled:
"Hifa mi yotsia ma na'ne ykakhena tavo."
This means: "The beautiful” (Goddess). Who will bring her out? What should we call out (in chorus) to entice her to come?" This surprisingly fits the situation of the myth.
Moreover, we Japanese not only say, "Hi, hu, mi...," but also say with the same meaning:
"Hitotsu, futatsu, mittsu, yottsu, itsutsu, muttsu, nanatsu, yattsu, kokonotsu, towo."
Here, "totsu" or "tsu" is put to each of "Hi, hu, mi..." as the last part of the words. But the last "towo" (which means ten) remains the same. "Totsu" could be the Hebrew word "tetse," which means, "She comes out. " And "tsu" may be the Hebrew word "tse" which means "Come out."
Eidelberg believed that these words were said by the gods who surrounded the priest, "Koyane." That is, when "Koyane" first says, "Hi," the surrounding gods add, "totsu" (She comes out) in reply, and secondly, when "Koyane" says, "Fu," the gods add "totsu" (tatsu), and so on. In this way, it became "Hitotsu, futatsu, mittsu...."
However, the last word, "towo," the priest, "Koyane," and the surrounding gods said together. If this is the Hebrew word "tavo," it means, "(She) shall come." When they say this, the female god, "Amaterasu," came out.
"Hi, fu, mi..." and "Hitotsu, futatsu, mittsu..." later were used as the words to count numbers.
In addition, the name of the priest, "Koyane," sounds close to a Hebrew word, "kohen," which means, "a priest." Eidelberg showed many other examples of Japanese words (several thousand), which appeared to have a Hebrew origin. This does not appear to be accidental.
In ancient Japanese folk songs, many words appear that are not understandable as Japanese. Dr. Eiji Kawamorita considered that many of them are Hebrew. A Japanese folk song in Kumamoto prefecture is sung, "Hallelujah, haliya, haliya, tohse, Yahweh, Yahweh, yoitonnah...." This also sounds as if it is Hebrew.
Similarity Between the Biblical Genealogy and Japanese Mythology
There is a remarkable similarity between the Biblical article and Japanese mythology. A Japanese scholar points out that the stories around Ninigi in the Japanese mythology greatly resemble the stories around Jacob in the Bible.
In the Japanese mythology, the Imperial family of Japan and the nation of Yamato (the Japanese) are descendants from Ninigi, who came from heaven. Ninigi is the anscestor of the tribe of Yamato, or Japanese nation. While Jacob is the anscestor of the Israelites.
In the Japanese mythology, it was not Ninigi who was to come down from heaven, but the other. But when the other was preparing, Ninigi was born and in a result, instead of him, Ninigi came down from heaven and became the anscestor of the Japanese nation. In the same way, according to the Bible, it was Esau, Jacob's elder brother, who was to become God's nation but in a result, instead of Esau, God's blessing for the nation was given to Jacob, and Jacob became the anscestor of the Israelites.
And in the Japanese mythology, after Ninigi came from heaven, he fell in love with a beautiful woman named Konohana-sakuya-hime and tried to marry her. But her father asked him to marry not only her but also her elder sister. However the elder sister was ugly and Ninigi gave her back to her father. In the same way, according to the Bible, Jacob fell in love with beautiful Rachal and tried to marry her (Genesis chapter 29). But her father says to Jacob that he cannot give the younger sister before the elder, so he asked Jacob to marry the elder sister (Leah) also. However the elder sister was not so beautiful, Jacob disliked her. Thus, there is a parallelism between Ninigi and Jacob.
And in the Japanese mythology, Ninigi and his wife Konohana-sakuya-hime bear a child named Yamasachi-hiko. But Yamasachi-hiko is bullied by his elder brother and has to go to the country of a sea god. There Yamasachi-hiko gets a mystic power and troubles the elder brother by giving him famine, but later forgives his sin. In the same way, according to the Bible, Jacob and his wife Rachal bear a child named Joseph. But Joseph is bullied by his elder brothers and had to go to Egypt. There Joseph became the prime minister of Egypt and gets power, and when the elder brothers came to Egypt because of famine, Joseph helped them and forgives their sin. Thus, there is a parallelism between Yamasachi-hiko and Joseph.
Similarity between the biblical genealogy and Japanese mythology
And in the Japanese mythology, Yamasachi-hiko married a daughter of the sea god, and bore a child named Ugaya-fukiaezu. Ugaya-fukiaezu had 4 sons. But his second and third sons were gone to other places. The forth son is emperor Jinmu who conquers the land of Yamato. On this line is the Imperial House of Japan.
While, what is it in the Bible? Joseph married a daughter of a priest in Egypt, and bore Manasseh and Ephraim. Ephraim resembles Ugaya-fukiaezu in the sense that Ephraim had 4 sons, but his second and third sons were killed and died early (1 Chronicles 7:20-27), and a descendant from the forth son was Joshua who conquered the land of Canaan (the land of Israel). On the line of Ephraim is the Royal House of the Ten Tribes of Israel.
Thus we find a remarkable similarity between the biblical genealogy and Japanese mythology - between Ninigi and Jacob, Yamasachi-hiko and Joseph, and the Imperial family of Japan and the tribe of Ephraim.
Furthermore, in the Japanese mythology, the heaven is called Hara of Takama (Takama-ga-hara or Takama-no-hara). Ninigi came from there and founded the Japanese nation. Concerning this Hara of Takama, Zen'ichirou Oyabe, a Japanase researcher, thought that this is the city Haran in the region of Togarmah where Jacob and his anscestors once lived; Jacob lived in Haran of Togarmah for a while, then came to Canaan and founded the Israeli nation.
Jacob once saw in a dream the angels of God ascending and descending between the heaven and the earth (Genesis 28:12), when Jacob was given a promise of God that his descendants would inherit the land of Canaan. This was different from Ninigi's descending from heaven, but resembles it in image.
Thus, except for details, the outline of the Japanese mythology greatly resembles the records of the Bible. It is possible to think that the myths of Kojiki and Nihon-shoki, the Japanese chronicles written in the 8th century, were originally based on Biblical stories but later added with various pagan elements. Even it might be possible to think that the Japanese mythology was originally a kind of genealogy, which showed that the Japanese are descendants from Jacob, Joseph, and Ephraim.
Impurity During Menstruation and Bearing Child
The concept of uncleanness during menstruation and bearing child have existed in Japan since ancient times.
It has been a custom in Japan since old days that woman during menstruation should not attend holy events at shrine. She could not have sex with her husband and had to shut herself up in a hut (called Gekkei-goya in Japanese), which is built for collaboration use in village, during her menstruation and several days or about 7 days after the menstruation. This custom had been widely seen in Japan until Meiji era (about 100 years ago). After the period of shutting herself up ends, she had to clean herself by natural water as river, spring, or sea. It there is no natural water, it can be done in bathtub.
This resembles ancient Israeli custom very much. In ancient Israel, woman during menstruation could not attend holy events at the temple, had to be apart from her husband, and it was custom to shut herself up in a hut during her menstruation and 7 days after the menstruation (Leviticus 15:19, 28). This shutting herself up was said "to continue in the blood of her purification", and this was for purification and to make impurity apart from the house or the village.
Menstruation hut used by Falasha, Ethiopian Jews
This remains true even today. There are no sexual relations, for the days of menstruation and an additional 7 days. Then the woman goes to the Mikveh, ritual bath. The water of the Mikveh must be natural water. There are cases of gathering rainwater and putting it to the Mikveh bathtub. In case of not having enough natural water, water from faucet is added.
Modern people may feel irrational about this concept but women during menstruation or bearing child need rest physically and mentally. Woman herself says that she feels impure in her blood in the period. "To continue in the blood of her purification" refers to this need of rest of her blood.
Not only concerning menstruation, but also the concept concerning bearing child in Japanese Shinto resembles the one of ancient Israel. A mother who bore a child is regarded unclean in a certain period. This concept is weak among the Japanese today, but was very common in old days. The old Shinto book, Engishiki (the 10th century C.E.), set 7 days as a period that she cannot participate holy events after she bore a child. This resembles an ancient custom of Israel, for the Bible says that when a woman has conceived, and borne a male child, then she shall be "unclean 7 days". She shall then "continue in the blood of her purification 33 days". In the case that she bears a female child, then she shall be "unclean two weeks", and she shall "continue in the blood of her purification 66 days'" (Leviticus 12:2-5).
In Japan it had been widely seen until Meiji era that woman during pregnancy and after bearing child shut herself up in a hut (called Ubu-goya in Japanese) and lived there. The period was usually during the pregnancy and 30 days or so after she bore a child (The longest case was nearly 100 days). This resembles the custom of ancient Israel.
In ancient Israel, after this period of purification the mother could come to the temple with her child for the first time. Also in the custom of Japanese Shinto, after this period of purification the mother can come to the shrine with her baby. In modern Japan it is generally 32 days (or 31 days) after she bore the baby in case of a male, and 33 days in case of a female.
But when they come to the shrine it is not the mother who carries the baby. It is a traditional custom that the baby should be carried not by the mother, but usually by the husband's mother (mother-in-law). This is a remarkable similarity of purity and impurity of the mother, after childbirth, with ancient Israeli custom.
Japanese "Mizura" and Jewish Peyot
Realistically the ancient Japanese men's hair style called "mizura," which hair comes down under his cap and hangs in front of both ears with some curling. This hairstyle was widely seen among Japanese Samurais, and it was unique to Japan, not the one that came from the cultures of China or Korea.
Is it a mere coincidence that this resembles Jewish "peyot" (payot) very much, which is also a hair style of hanging the hair in front of the ears long with some curling is a unique hair style for Jews and the origin is very old.
Leviticus 19:27 of the Bible mentions:
"'Do not cut the hair at the sides of your head."
So, this custom originated from the ancient Israelites. The "peyot" custom of today's Hasidic Jews is a recovery of this ancient custom. Yemenite Jews have had this custom since ancient times. There is a statue from Syria, which is from the 8th or 9th century B.C.E.. It shows a Hebrew man with peyot and a fringed shawl.
To be continued to:
Chapter 2 - The Ten Lost Tribes of Israel in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Kashmir, Myanmar, and China
Chapter 3 - Did the Lost Tribes of Israel Come To Ancient Japan?
Chapter 4 - Various Other Similarities Between Ancient Israel and Ancient Japan
Please feel free to print this site for your personal use, and distribute it to your friends.
E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.org (Your thoughts and opinions are welcome, although I may not be able to reply to all.)
For more information
I appeared in a TV program
I appeared in a Japanese TV program on this topic. You can watch the videos with English captions at "Are the Japanese actually Jewish?"
The following are the books written by Jewish researchers on the connections between the Israelites and the Japanese.
*The Biblical Hebrew Origin of the Japanese People, written by Joseph Eidelberg (English and Hebrew).
*In the Footsteps of the Lost Ten Tribes, written by Avigdor Shachan (English and Hebrew).
*The Tribes of Israel - The Lost and the Dispersed, written by Rabbi Eliyahu Avichail (English and Hebrew).
*If you can read Japanese, "Nihon-Yudaya, Huuin no Kodaishi" which is written by Rabbi Marvin Tokayer and published by Tokuma-shoten is the best book on this topic (This book includes many pictures. The English version is not published yet).
Other recommended links:
Who are the Japanese?
Straight Talk About God (Lost Tribes)
BBS Information on the Lost Tribes of Israel
SOURCE:THE BIBLICAL HEBREW ORIGINS OF THE JAPANESE PEOPLE.
Posted Wednesday, December 31st 2008 at 10:19PM, “Black in America”,
Gregory V. Boulware, ASB/CS
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Friday, October 2, 2009
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The sabha presented a Tribute to Vid. M.S.Subbulakshmi on the occasion of her birthday and in memory of Sir C.P Ramaswamy Aiyer’s historic speech and Legend M.S.Subbulakshmi’s fund raising concert for the sabha in 1960 on 16th Sep 2020
120th year Bharat Nritya Utsav is taking place from 19th January 2020 to 10th March 2020. The venue is R K SWAMY AUDITORIUM, Mylapore, Chennai. Please refer schedule for details.


I traveled to Crowsnest Pass, Alberta Canada in October to visit Rosalie Harriott where has lived for many years.
I spent three days interviewing Rosalie and copying photographs from her collection. I learned a great deal, and connected a lot of "dots" about the salt industry and the Turks Islands.
Brown House/Sunnyside And The Legendary "Salt Barons"
The Brown House was bought by the Harriott’s in the late 1800's for Howard Harriott and his first wife, Rosalie. Rosalie died quite young of TB, after giving birth to three children, Franklyn, Gladys and Natalie. He thereafter married Winnie Rigby.
Daniel (Niel) Harriott, the elder brother of Howard, lived in the White House. The Brown House was then named "Sunnyside". With the untimely, early death of Niel in 1912. The White House was closed for at least 10 years and no one resided there. Niel’s widow returned to Grand Turk.
The White House was reopened in the early 30's when Franklyn and his bride Marjorie Durham (of South Caicos), came to Salt Cay to live. According to "The Bermudan", a newspaper reporting their honeymoon, they were to "return home where they will constitute one half of Salt Key’s white population".
Franklyn was Rosalie’s father, and the last of the salt proprietors. Franklyn’s sisters were Gladys Hinson Harriott, a "maiden aunt" and Natalie Harriott Dunn, who is the grandmother of Tim and Jonathon Dunn. Natalie married Reverend Howard Dunn and had 2 sons, Michael and Ian with him.
Franklyn Harriott installed electric lighting and a bathroom in the White House. The downstairs kitchen remained until one of the cooks set the place on fire. At that point, a bedroom on the main floor was converted to a kitchen with a kerosene cooker being used. Probably about as safe as the fire kitchen down below.
Howard Harriott died in a drowning incident at towards the end of World War II. While on Grand Turk for a salt industry meeting, he insisted on returning to Salt Cay late in the day and in bad weather. He returned in a boat with 3 oarsmen—yes, rowing from Grand Turk—wearing a 3 piece suit and shoes–not good swimming wear.
The boat capsized in the area north of Salt Cay where the channel meets the shallows. Manuel Simmons, a "good man" according to Rosalie, perished with Howard Harriott. The other two oarsmen managed to save the boat and swim it the five miles to Salt Cay in the rough sea.
Winnie, Howard’s widow then left Salt Cay and returned to Grand Turk where she too was originally from.
Sunnyside then was closed. A trade ensued through the years whereby the White House was traded to the Dunn’s for Sunnyside. Sunnyside was then sold and the progression of owners began that continues to this day–and it has returned to being called the Brown House–a name that even Rosalie cannot explain.
The term salt baron is one that Rosalie had never heard of until her return to Salt Cay in 1995. There was more than one salt proprietor on Salt Cay and no one was a "baron". The Harriott’s were the largest proprietors of ponds, but they weren’t barons.
Wealth was really relative. The Harriott’s were the only "whites" on the island, and had many things that most people didn’t have. They had "stuff" the Islanders did not have. Pay was relative to what the industry paid. But compared to what other people of the then "modern" world had, it wasn’t much. In reality, the depression was really the death knell of the Turks Islands salt industry.
When Franklyn Harriott came to Salt Cay live in the White House, it was 1931. The depression was still very real. When the depression let up, war in Europe was going on. Remember, Turks Islands were part of Great Britain, so they were at war long before the US was involved.
When the US entered the war and it went to a global scale, the salt industry was really in trouble, and shipping became impossible.
Post war, when a 10,000 ton ship came to collect salt in the "modern" way, the three islands of Grand Turk, Salt Cay and South Caicos couldn’t fill the holds, and that really spelled trouble. Young men did not want to work in the salt industry for little or nothing, doing work that was beyond hard, long and boring. They left and never returned.
In 1952 the Harriott’s left Salt Cay for good, going to Canada. Nationalization of the salt industry was the beginning of the end. Though preferred shareholders, there was not enough of a future in salt to keep it a viable industry and financial ruin was inevitable. This part, for Rosalie Harriott, is very difficult to discuss and share, but as a historian, they are the facts.
Franklyn Harriott, the last of the Harriott proprietors, died of a heart attack at the age of 61 in 1960, a broken man. At 50 years of age, when he left Salt Cay, he could not get a job. He was extremely stressed which broke his health. His widow, Marjorie, lived on until 79 years of age, having owned a dress shop in Vancouver, BC and later working for a department store.
This is really just a "nutshell" of the Harriott history, and one I intend to write and research in the months to come. It is a fascinating story and one I think many people will enjoy.
Brown House Renovation
Work really is going forward on the Brown House as this goes to "press". The entire lower floor basement is exposed and the dining room floor is gone. You can look up into the house from the ground.
There are huge, 14x30x34 foot beams for the floors that arrived by Lew Tide on the morning of the wedding. These things are monsters and I’d not like to be on the crew doing this remodel. Word is the cost is going to reach $1 million when it is done. There is a dedicated Haitian work crew working 6 days a week on this building. Expect significant improvements by the winter.
In other building projects, Nathan is now clearing and preparing to build on a lot across from Poley’s house, 1 lot north of the Old Cemetery.
Other than that, and Clyde’s house, not much is happening.


In 1958 Ross Karlson, having just graduated in engineering started with Riverside Construction in London Ontario. By 1972 he worked himself up to Vice President of the company with a stake in ownership of the company. In 1973 Riverside Construction was sold to TCG Materials, where Ross went on to become Senior Vice President until his retirement from the company in 1994.
In 1984 Tory Karlson, the son of Ross joined TCG Materials in the Marketing division of the company. From 1984 until 1989 he worked himself into a management position. One of his clients was Ronson Paving & Construction, which was formed in 1984. Tory realized the potential in this young company and in 1989 purchased Ronson Paving.