Japanese Somin Shorai Wooden Amulet Charm Epidemic Prevention
$ 39.58
Description
This piece measures 3.5 inches tall and 1.25 inches in widest diameter. This is a wooden hexagonal shaped amulet charm folk toy based on popular folk belief called Somin Shorai worship. Made from a type of willow tree, it is an amulet for the prayer for good luck and especially for good health and epidemic prevention. Somin Shorai worship has a very long history: Japan's oldest amulet dating more than 1200 years old was excavated in Kyoto and it was a Somin Shorai charm. The Bingo Fudoki is an ancient document denoting the Bingo (present day Hiroshima) region's history, culture and folklore. According to this document, Susano-O-no-Mikoto, the brother of Sun Goddess Amaterasu, was traveling disguised as an old beggar in the Bingo area and needed a place to stay for the night. Kotan Shorai, a man of great wealth in the region refused to give him lodging but his elder brother, Somin Shorai was happy to welcome Susano-O for a night's lodging even though he was very poor. Next day when Susano-O was about to leave, he told Somin to make a small ring with congongrass (Imperata cylindrica) and wear it around the waist that would bring them great luck and protection and would prevent Somin and his family from getting sick during great epidemics. Somin family and his descendants have placed a wooden signboard at the gate that reads "We are Somin Shorai's descendants" and they have always been spared from getting any epidemics. Based on this legend, a wooden amulet was made with the prayer writing in red and black that reads, "we are the descendants of Somin Shorai, Good luck and Great wealth." Smaller amulets are often used as a charm for children to wear and larger pieces are often offered at the Shinto Altar.
Fabulous little Maneki Neko cat, it's absolutely adorable and I am very happy that it finally reached its destination.Tremendous thanks to the outstanding seller to package it so very carefully as it had a long journey thanks to the USPS who for some reason had it going back and forth to the same post offices more than twice, took 12 days. The condition is pristine and I was very pleased with the price point for both the item and shipping and excellent quality. I highly recommend this seller.
I purchased a Trader Joe’s grocery bag from this seller and had a great experience. They responded to my messages in a timely manner and shipped the item quickly. The bag arrived well packaged and exactly as described. I’m happy with my purchase and would definitely buy from this seller again. Highly recommend!
These gorgeous ducks are exactly as described and shown in photos, Excellent condition and truly a treasure beyond value. At a great price. Shipped quickly and the packaging was very professional. I highly recommend this seller and hope to patronize his store again.
Related products
Arita Ware Mansen Teapot Teacup Set Storage Item
$ 64.63Matcha Tea Bowl Kutani Ware , Utensils, Long-Term Storage, Antique, Vintage
$ 66.53Renji Writer Kusamaru Ibe Tate Kiln Tea Bowl Storage Box
$ 126.8Kutani Ware Ceramic Incense Teapot Tea Utensils Storage Items
$ 55.44