Sarutahiko-no-Okami
In my previous article, I wrote about Oasahiko-no-Okami, enshrined at the Oasahiko Shrine, the primary shrine of Awa province.
Sarutahiko-no-Okami of Ise
This time, let’s delve into another deity being worshiped: Sarutahiko-no-Okami.
Sarutahiko is famously known as the deity who appeared to guide Ninigi-no-Mikoto during his heavenly descent. His wife is Ame-no-Uzume. He is celebrated as a deity of guidance.
The Sarutahiko Shrine in Ise attracts many visitors.
Every time I visit the shrine in Ise, I purchase a flint.
If you’re a fan of historical dramas, you might remember a scene where Zenigata Heiji’s wife strikes a flint behind him as a protective gesture. It’s said to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. (Sadly, my wife doesn’t do this for me!)
Additionally, when Yamato Takeru was cornered by his enemies, he lit the grass with a flint and swung Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi (Grass-Cutting Sword), creating a fire that allowed him to escape danger. That’s the flint I’m talking about.
On a previous visit of our group, after hearing the above story from our master on the bus, everyone decided to purchase a flint at the shrine office. A flint, which usually doesn’t sell much, was suddenly sold out. The staff was so surprised, they asked, “Is there some special occasion today?” It was quite an amusing scene.
Well, I’ve digressed into a casual chat. My apologies.
The Sarutahiko enshrined in the Ise Sarutahiko Shrine is indeed revered as the deity of guidance and sits in the dignified main hall.
Ooasahan
On the other hand, the Sarutahiko-no-Okami of Oasahiko Shrine was believed to reside on the peak of the Oasa Mountain behind the main hall. However, over time, he came to be enshrined with Oasahiko-no-Okami in the present shrine.
Compared to Ise, he is a more approachable deity, leading the festival procession in a Tengu (a long-nosed goblin) form and driving away any disasters or misfortunes. He is deeply cherished by the locals.
Locals affectionately refer to Oasahiko-no-Okami and Sarutahiko-no-Okami together as “Ooasahan” and hold them dear. This feels like genuine faith to me, interwoven into people’s daily lives.
Saruta Shrine in Choshi City
Switching topics, let’s talk about Saruta Shrine located in Choshi City on the Boso Peninsula.
After visiting the three major shrines of the East, although unplanned, I felt drawn to this shrine and paid a visit.
Personally, I find it more endearing than the grand amusement-like shrines. It feels closely knitted to the local community.
From the main gate to the shrine, the JR Sobu Line railway runs underneath, creating a nostalgic scene. I rented a car from a nearby inn close to Inubosaki, and the journey was a pleasant drive through well-maintained farm roads.
In the innermost part of the shrine, there’s a monument marking the spot where Sarutahiko-no-Okami descended. It’s such a serene place; I wished I could stay forever.
Were Deities Once Human?
The history of the Boso Peninsula suggests it was developed by the people of Awa. There’s a shrine that worships deities believed to be descendants of the Imbe clan. In the original Awa, there’s the Oasahiko Shrine where Oasahiko-no-Okami and Sarutahiko-no-Okami are enshrined.
Considering this background, could it be that Saruta Shrine’s faith was introduced by the Awa people? This is my personal opinion!
The image many people have of Sarutahiko Ōkami is quite different from the legend of Sarutahiko Ōkami that is passed down in Awa Province (Tokushima).
As previously mentioned, Sarutahiko is known for leading the procession of the portable shrine. What’s unusual is Sarutahiko as the god of indigo dyeing. Sadly, there’s a tale of Sarutahiko dying after getting caught by a shell while diving underwater. And so on; rather than just as a deity, he is often seen more as a person who lived among the people in their daily lives.
The deities in the ancient myths and those enshrined in shrines were once real humans. Changing this perspective in this way, don’t they suddenly feel more relatable?
Please cherish your local deities.
Recommended Nearby Spots
The area around Ōasahiko Shrine is actually a historically significant hub. Although there are dotted burial mounds and shrines that could overturn known history, it gets rather niche, so I’ll refrain from delving into it this time. For those interested in studying more, I’ll introduce recommended books next time.
Instead, I’ll post some recommended spots around the Ōasahiko Shrine below.
Beyond the above, there are roadside stands selling crops. Naruto Kintoki (local sweet potato), lotus root, fruits, etc. They are a great deal. In our home, we purchase in bulk and enjoy them as tempura.
Please take your time and visit. (I sound like someone from Tokushima) Thank you for reading to the end.
