Noroi: Japanese Curses
In the realm of Japanese folklore, the term “Noroi” holds a captivating allure. It encompasses a wide range of supernatural phenomena, from curses and hexes to malevolent magic and ill fortune. This article will explore the intriguing concept of noroi, including its historical origins, cultural significance, and legends surrounding it.
Noroi, the Japanese term for a curse or hex, is a multifaceted concept. It can manifest as simple bad luck or as a result of malicious intent. Curses may be intentionally cast by sorcerers or unintentionally brought forth by individuals harboring intense feelings of anger or resentment.
Pinpointing the exact emergence of the concept of curses in Japan is challenging. However, curses have been a common feature in ancient cultures worldwide, and Japan is no exception. Noroi predates all major regions of the country and an early recorded instance of Noroi can be traced back to the 75th Emperor of Japan, Emperor Sutoku and the events following his abdication and exile.
After relinquishing the throne, Emperor Sutoku embraced a monastic life, diligently copying numerous scriptures and presenting them to the court. However, due to concerns that these scriptures were cursed, the court declined to accept them. Feeling snubbed, Sutoku harbored resentment towards the court, and upon his death, he is said to have transformed into an onryō, a vengeful spirit, becoming associated with Noroi. His curse was believed to be responsible for a series of misfortunes that befell the Imperial court, such as its decline in fortune, the rise of samurai power, droughts, and internal unrest.
Later, In 1868, Emperor Meiji ascended to the throne, and The Emperor’s authority was reinstated.
Mindful of potential unrest caused by lingering vengeful spirits, the young emperor dispatched an imperial envoy to Sanuki to retrieve the spirit of Sutoku and bring it to Kyoto. Once returned to his former capital, Sutoku was revered and honored as a deity, finding his eternal resting place at Shiramine Shrine.
When faced with the malevolent effects of a curse, individuals often seek the assistance of Shinto or Buddhist priests or yamabushi (mountain ascetics) to perform noroi exorcisms.
The specific rituals employed during an exorcism depend on the nature of the curse and the traditions of the person conducting it. Prayers, rituals, and the creation of talismans are common methods employed to ward off the malevolent effects of noroi.
To delve deeper into the concept of “Noroi”, we must examine its etymology and explore another related term, “Majinai”. These terms hold unique meanings and significance within Japanese culture. “Noroi” signifies a curse or a spell, akin to the magic seen in movies that brings misfortune to others. On the other hand, “Majinai” represents a charm or magic spell, not necessarily malevolent like “Noroi.” Interestingly, when “呪” is used, it’s usually read as “noroi,” implying a curse. However, prefixing it with “o,” forming “お呪,” changes the reading to “omajinai,” denoting a good luck charm. Lastly, “majinaishi” refers to a spellcaster or magician, someone who performs the magic.
A method for casting an ancient type of Noroi involves a ritual called Ushi no Toki Mairi. This ritual is performed between 1 and 3 AM, traditionally known as the hours of the Ox. It’s purported to inflict harm on the intended victim and is commonly associated with wronged women seeking vengeance. The Noroi ritual itself is shrouded in symbolism and tradition. The practitioner, dressed in white, adorns an iron ring with three lit candles on their head. They then hammer nails into a sacred tree at a Shinto shrine. In modern practice, a straw effigy of the victim is impaled on the tree using the nails. This ritual must be repeated for seven consecutive days to ensure its success.
The Kifune Shrine in Kyoto is renowned for its association with the curse. Originally a place for wishes and prayers, the shrine became intertwined with Ushi no toki mairi. The shrine’s connection to this type of Noroi adds to its depth and allure.
The legend of “Hashihime of Uji” serves as the prime source for the Ushi no toki mairi Curse ritual. Dating back to the reign of Emperor Saga, the legend tells the story of a jealous woman who changes into a Yokai now known as Hashihime.
The story goes like this: “Seeking to the power of a devil capable of destroying her love rival, she undertook a seven-day ritual at the Kifune Shrine and transformed into a Hashihime thanks to the great miracle-working Kami of Kifune.”
This legend is deeply intertwined with the curse ritual and adds a sense of history and tradition to its practice.
Interestingly, the Ushi no toki mairi Curse has also made its way into popular culture. It is referenced in various video games, such as Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles and the Pokémon series. Additionally, manga series like Jujutsu Kaisen, Junji Ito Collection, and Chainsaw Man feature characters using hammers and nails in Noroi or combat. These references in popular culture further contribute to the intrigue and fascination surrounding the concept of curses in Japanese folklore.
The enduring presence of Noroi in Japanese culture, its historical origins, and the legends associated with it all combine to create a captivating tapestry of supernatural beliefs. Whether viewed as a cautionary tale or a source of superstition, the concept of “Noroi” continues to captivate and inspire curiosity everywhere.