Takabe Shrine’s Knife Ceremony and the Elvis of Shinto (高家神社と神道のエルヴィス)

On October 17th, I went to Takabe Shrine in Chikura to see their famous Knife Ceremony.

Apparently, Takabe Shrine is the only shrine in Japan dedicated to a god of cooking. A few times each year, on set days, they have the Knife Ceremony,  a ritual in which a specialist uses only a knife and a set of chopsticks to butcher a whole fish into sashimi.  He does this without touching the fish with his hands even once.  I heard this used to be performed for the emperor.

I don't understand it all well enough to explain, so take a look at some photos!

I want those pants!

 cleaning the cutting board

done cleaning!

purifying tools

He was waving that around so I think that means purifying.

gotta do the chopsticks, too!

Finally the fish comes out.  As you can see, the fish is vomiting decorations.  This pleases the gods.

This was my favorite part! This guy does the cutting, and he came out in a kimono with super long sleeves.  He sat down and then flung his arms out to his sides for the men behind him to tie up (out of his way).  Somehow this movement reminded me of Elvis!

It was like this!

I was really worried he was going to cut himself.

Look at how he holds those chopsticks!  I can barely use chopsticks the normal way...

"I am finished here.  Bring me the plate!" (said without words)

I just want to know, what's the deal with grandpa's hat?

The finished product.

I've got to say, I tend to prefer flashier rituals and festivals (I know, typical American).  This one was pretty calm and simple in classic Shinto fashion.  Plus, it was hot as Hades outside!  The heat zapped a good part of my concentration.  All the same, this is a very famous ritual, so if you have time, it's worth checking out.  Look for Elvis when you come.

By the way, did you know that by the Japanese naming, October is called 神無月?  It's pronounced 'kanazuki' and it means "the month without god(s)".  According to legend, all of the gods in all of the shrines in Japan go to Izumo Taisha in Togane Prefecture for a big meeting.  Since there are no gods in people's local area, it's called the month without god.  

I wonder why they perform a ritual for the god when the god isn't there?  

No one can answer my question, lol.

Well, they'll do it again on November 5th, so hopefully the god can catch that one.

Liz