The Japanese art of origami has many more uses than you can imagine, from being used by samurai as a concentration technique before battle, to inspiring designs for future spaceships.
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Origami was initially called orikata (folded shapes). The term origami originates from the Japanese oru (to fold) and kami (paper), and it goes back to 1880. When it was first practiced, it was a craft that was solely for the elite. It was only used in religious ceremonies by monks, due to the high price of paper.
It was also used in formal ceremonies among the wealthy, as tsutsumi or folded paper gift wrappers to symbolise sincerity and purity, or as tsuki (gift accompaniments). But as paper became more affordable, the average man began making origami figures, and even used origami as an educational tool.
Here are a few more facts about origami that may surprise you:
1. Symbol of peace
In feudal Japan, samurai prepared themselves for battle with martial arts training and origami. The technique helped them hone their focus and improve concentration, while remaining relaxed. The samurai used to gift each other cranes, as they were symbols of honour and loyalty.
2. Energetic paper
Scientists from the US-based Georgia Institute of Technology used the concept of static electricity to create electrical energy by folding and unfolding origami. The scope of their research is significant, since origami could one day be used to power small electronic devices in our homes.
3. Intergalactic inspiration
The US space agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Nasa) is researching origami-based techniques to design ultra-efficient solar panels and even entire space shuttles. The sophisticated mathematics involved in origami could potentially help create objects that are both roomy and compact, lightweight and durable.
Do you practice this ancient art? Play today’s Crossword and tell us at games@gulfnews.com.
