In the rich tapestry of Japanese folklore, the Binbōgami stands out as a peculiar and intriguing deity.
Known as the "God of Poverty," Binbōgami is believed to bring misfortune and financial hardship to those unfortunates enough to attract its attention.
This mythical figure has been a recurring theme in various Japanese tales, essays, and even traditional comedy performances known as rakugo.
In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of Binbōgami, exploring its characteristics, origins, and cultural significance.
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The Appearance of Binbōgami
Binbōgami is typically depicted as a disheveled old man, adorned with tattered clothing and a frail, emaciated frame.
His complexion is pale, and he carries a worn-out fan, which he uses to fan the aroma of his favorite food, miso soup.
While his appearance may vary, Binbōgami is universally associated with laziness and a penchant for residing in the recesses of a household, particularly in the depths of closets.
The Legends and Tales of Binbōgami
Discover the captivating world of Binbōgami, the Japanese God of Poverty, through a collection of stories and legends.
Explore how Binbōgami's power can afflict even the wealthiest, with tales from the Edo period, dream encounters, and rituals to escape poverty.
Also, dive into the influence of Binbōgami in popular culture, from video game characters to whimsical statues.
The Misfortunes of the Wealthy
One prevalent belief surrounding Binbōgami is his ability to afflict even the most prosperous individuals with poverty.
According to an account in the famous Edo period collection of supernatural stories, "Toen novel," a wealthy samurai family in Edo experienced a series of calamities.
Desperate for a solution, one of the samurai's servants encountered a mysterious monk who claimed responsibility for the misfortunes.
The monk revealed himself as Binbōgami.
The house is in extreme poverty now, so I decided to leave the household and go to another house.
He explained that.
As a result, the master's luck was looking up.
The Dream Encounter
In the literary work "Tan Hai" by Tsumura Sōan, a man recounts a dream encounter with Binbōgami.
In the dream, the man witnesses a decrepit old man entering his room, wearing ragged clothes.
From that moment onward, the man's life takes a turn for the worse, experiencing countless failures and setbacks.
Four years later, Binbōgami appears in the man's dream once again, but this time, he informs him of the ritual to rid himself of poverty.
The ritual involves making a small portion of fried rice and miso soup, placing it on a tray made of folded boards, and discarding it into a river.
Following this ritual, the man's life dramatically improves, and he never encounters Binbōgami again.
Binbōgami in Popular Culture
The influence of Binbōgami extends beyond folklore and literature, making appearances in various forms of popular culture.
One notable example is the character Binbōgami in the popular game series "Momotaro Dentetsu."
This mischievous character, often depicted as a small, chubby figure, embodies the misfortune and financial struggles associated with the deity.
Another representation of Binbōgami is the bronze statue on Mizuki Shigeru Road in Sakaiminato, Tottori Prefecture.
This statue serves as a whimsical homage to the God of Poverty and attracts many visitors curious about this mythical figure.
Rituals and Superstitions
Discover the rituals and beliefs surrounding Binbōgami, the Japanese God of Poverty.
From lighting New Year's Eve fires in Niigata to the symbolism of miso soup and worn-out fans, explore customs associated with driving away financial misfortune.
Explore proverbs like "A persimmon fan attracts the God of Poverty" that reflect Binbōgami's cultural influence.
Delve into this concise exploration of Binbōgami's world.
Warding Off Binbōgami
While Binbōgami is considered a deity and cannot be defeated, rituals and beliefs are associated with driving him away from one's home.
In Niigata, on New Year's Eve, it is believed that lighting a fire in the hearth will cause Binbōgami to flee, making room for the arrival of the God of Fortune.
Similarly, in Tsushima, Ehime Prefecture, it is said that digging excessively around the hearth will summon Binbōgami.
These regional customs emphasize the significance of the hearth as a focal point in warding off the God of Poverty.
The Symbolism of Miso and Fans
According to poet Mitsuyuki Nakamura, Binbōgami's fondness for miso soup is rooted in the deity's preference for the aroma of this traditional Japanese dish.
The image of Binbōgami fanning himself with a worn-out fan is believed to be a representation of his enjoyment of the fragrance emitted by the miso soup.
This symbolism showcases the association between Binbōgami, poverty, and the hardships those those affected by financial struggles face.
Proverbs and Sayings
The influence of Binbōgami extends to idiomatic expressions and proverbs in Japanese culture.
A popular saying, "Kaki uchiwa wa Binbōgami ga tsuku," translates to "A persimmon fan attracts the God of Poverty."
This proverb highlights the belief that owning a persimmon fan, a symbol of frugality and simplicity, may invite financial struggles.
Such proverbs underscore the pervasive influence of Binbōgami in Japanese society.
Shrines and Worship of Binbōgami
Explore the modern devotion to Binbōgami, the Japanese God of Poverty, at dedicated shrines and temples.
Discover Tokyo's Ota Shrine and its Taisha Shrine for rituals to invite Binbōgami into homes temporarily.
Visit Myosenji Temple in Tokyo's Taito Ward with its stone statue symbolizing economic recovery.
Find similar statues at train stations in Kagawa and Ehime Prefectures.
Dive into the places of worship and practices associated with Binbōgami.
The Ota Shrine
In modern times, one can find shrines dedicated to Binbōgami, where people seek solace and protection against poverty.
The Ota Shrine, located in Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo, dedicated to Binbōgami.
Visitors to this shrine can perform rituals to invite Binbōgami into their homes temporarily, with the intention of severing ties on the 21st day to break the association with poverty.
The Myosenji Temple
Another place of worship associated with Binbōgami is the Myosenji Temple in Taito Ward, Tokyo.
Here, a stone statue of Binbōgami is enshrined, featuring a monkey atop his head, reminiscent of the character design in the "Momotaro" game series.
This statue, known as the "Monkey atop Poverty," symbolizes the desire for economic recovery and prosperity.
Similar statues can also be found in various train stations, such as Kinashi Station in Kagawa Prefecture and Sasebo Station in Nagasaki Prefecture, further emphasizing the connection between Binbōgami and the folklore of the region.
Conclusion
Binbōgami, the God of Poverty, holds a unique place in Japanese folklore and culture.
From his disheveled appearance to his association with misfortune and financial struggles, Binbōgami has captivated the imagination of generations.
Whether encountered in legends, literature, or popular culture, this mythical figure continues to serve as a reminder of the ever-present threat of poverty and the resilience of the human spirit.
The rituals, superstitions, and shrines associated with Binbōgami demonstrate the enduring impact this deity has on Japanese society.
As we navigate the complexities of life, let us remember the lessons taught by Binbōgami and strive to find prosperity and contentment in the face of adversity.