User:Immanuelle/Oyama Afuri Shrine

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Oyama Aburi Shrine [ja] is a Shinto shrine located in Isehara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It is a Beppyo shrine, or a shrine that is particularly notable in a certain way with a significant history to it.^[1]^[2]^[3]

History

Established during Emperor Sujins reign millennia the Oyama Afuri Shrine is recognized as a revered Shinto institution known as a Shikinai sha. Originally known as "Amemuri yama " this sacred mountain has been pivotal for rain prayers and agricultural prosperity throughout history. From the Nara period blending of Shinto and Buddhism to serving as a sanctuary for samurai seeking success the shrines importance has transcended time. During the Edo era over 200,000 pilgrims embarked on a journey, to Mt. Oyama highlighting the shrines significance and the vibrant traditions of the Oyama pilgrimage.

Deities

At Oyama Afuri Shrine various deities are honored;

Oyamatsumi no Okami; Known as the father of Konohanasakuya hime (the deity of Mt. Fuji) this revered figure symbolizes mountains, water bodies, navigation skills, industry prosperity and sake brewing.

Takaokami no Kami, a deity associated with rain and water is mentioned in records. Believed to have an impact, on weather patterns and agricultural activities. Ooikazuchi no Kami, the god of thunder is highly respected for safeguarding against fires and thefts also recognized as the "Great Tengu" of Mount Oyama.

Cultural Importance

Oyama Pilgrimage

During the Edo period the Oyama Pilgrimage was a tradition where worshippers formed groups ("Kō [en]") to visit the shrine. This pilgrimage, coupled with the "Oyama Kaido" pathway played a role in shaping culture by inspiring rakugo stories and ukiyo e artworks. In 2008 this pilgrimage was designated as a Heritage Site due to its cultural significance.

Osamedachi Tradition

A tradition stemming from a tale about Minamoto no Yoritomo offering a sword to the shrine the Osamedachi custom involves presenting swords that can reach lengths of up to 6 meters.

Kagura Dance

Imported from Kasuga Taisha Shrine during the Meiji era the Kagura dance performed at Oyama Afuri Shrine includes dances by boys (Yamato Mai) and girls (Miko dance) spanning age groups, from elementary school students to adults.

The Sendoshi Ryokan originally built to host worshippers has transformed into an inn that provides lodging and dining services. It stands as one of the temple accommodations, in Japan.

As for the Oyama Noh tradition it reflects the shrines commitment to peace and harmony tracing its origins back, to the Genroku era. This tradition signifies the bond established among the leaders of Mt. Oyama through their embrace of Noh performances.