Microseason: Groundwater Flows

WINTER

FIRST CHILL

GROUNDWATER FLOWS

10 - 14 January

Ebisu is one the the Seven Lucky Gods. Most commonly found holding a fishing pole in his right hand and Sea Bream fish in his left hand, Ebisu is the god of business prosperity.

Similar to the Tori no Ichi that takes place in the Kanto region in November, during this microseason, largely the Kansai region gather for Touka Ebisu to ensure great abundance in business in the year ahead. Exchanging last year’s ornate amulet for this year’s. Bamboo grass bedazzled in charms that represent gold coins, fish, rice bales, tools, and the gods. Today, bamboo grass is prepared by the shrines, but traditionally, each individual would bring their own bamboo grass from their land. And that grass was given blessings at the shrine.

“Fukuzasa” or “Lucky Bamboo” is the term of endearment used for Mousou Bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) in this application. Bamboo grows quickly and upwardly, making for an appropriate symbol of a flourishing business. Furthermore, the materials is touted for the soothing rustling sounds that the leaves make, and for it’s antibacterial properties. Both factors making way for mental and physical health.

According to Kojiki, one of the two oldest Japanese texts that tell the legend of how Japan came to be, Hiruko was the first born to Izanagi (male) and Izanami (female) - the gods who created the archipelago. However, because Izanami initiated the union, contrary to what was expected as proper ritual order, Hiruko was born as a defective child. He was placed on a boat made of reeds and sent out to sea. The place where Hiruko drifted ashore is said to be Nishinomiya, where he was found by fishermen and later enshrined as Ebisu. Our ancestors say that gods who arrived from the sea were native to the eternal land. Thus bringing with them wealth and happiness.

This is one of many legends that lead us to Ebisu. Other regions say that Ebisu is in fact Kotoshironushi, or Hikohohodemi, or Sukunahikona.

Regardless the tale one chooses to believe, the Ebisu amulet is a visual showcase of where Japanese people have placed value. Namely, bamboo, rice, and fish.

Photo credit: Yasaka Shrine