Question. What if I told you that a seemingly small shrine embodies a powerful connection to ancient Japanese beliefs? That place is Sarutahikotaishin Koshindo Koshinto. This unique site weaves together threads of folklore, protection, and spiritual guidance. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural tapestry.
Sarutahikotaishin Koshindo Koshinto is dedicated to Sarutahiko Okami. He is a deity of the Shinto religion. Sarutahiko Okami isn’t just any god. He is the leader of the earthly kami. He is even referred to as Daimyojin or “greatly virtuous god”.
Sarutahiko Okami is seen as a symbol of strength and guidance. That is why he is the patron of martial arts like aikido. He is often depicted as a towering figure with a large beard and a jeweled spear. He also has a ruddy face and a long nose.
Sarutahiko’s most famous role is meeting Ninigi-no-Mikoto. Ninigi-no-Mikoto is the grandson of Amaterasu. Amaterasu is the sun goddess. Sarutahiko guides Ninigi-no-Mikoto when he descends from Takama-ga-hara. Takama-ga-hara is the heavenly realm.
Legend says Sarutahiko was initially reluctant to let Ninigi pass. But Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto persuaded him. She is the kami of dance and the arts. Sarutahiko later marries her. Together they created the Sarume clan. This clan was an order of female court and religious dancers. They were the origin of Kagura and Noh.
The name Sarutahiko has interesting roots. “Saru” means monkey. Anthropologist Emiko Ohnuki-Tierney notes that Sarutahiko has features like red buttocks. This is a characteristic of Japanese macaques. Also, monkeys gathering shellfish is a theme in Japanese folktales.
Sarutahiko is honored with the title Okami or “Great Kami”. Only six other deities share this honor. This highlights his importance in the Shinto pantheon.
There is a custom of celebrating koshin. It came from China in the 8th century. People would stay up all night on koshin nights. They believed that if they fell asleep insects inside their body would tell the gods about their sins.
Interestingly, Sarutahiko was considered a god of cosmic life by Ueshiba Morihei. Ueshiba Morihei is the founder of Aikido. He saw the practice of Aikido as a purification. It is like Sarutahiko standing between Heaven and Earth.
Visiting Sarutahikotaishin Koshindo Koshinto offers more than just a photo opportunity. It is a chance to connect with ancient beliefs and the spirit of guidance embodied by Sarutahiko Okami. Take a moment to reflect on the path you are on. Consider the strength and guidance this deity represents. As you leave Sarutahikotaishin Koshindo Koshinto, carry with you a sense of direction and purpose.