The eggplant 'oxen' is known as 'shōryō-ushi' (精霊牛 'spirit ox') and the cucumber 'horse' is known as 'shōryō-uma' (精霊馬 'spirit horse').
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Here is a great video about the 'spirit vegetables'
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https://youtu.be/0FoxADMvjBQ?si=Zya9sLAYvl1aYGOw
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Ox statues are common in Tenmangu shrines. They are rubbed as a prayer (often people rub parts of the ox that corresponds to any illness or sickness they have on their own body).
An ox being led during the Aoi Matsuri.
Statues of horses are a common sight in shrines. They were once gifted as offerings (in some cases as specific prayers from rain or fine weather).
Statues of horses are a common sight in shrines. They were once gifted as offerings (in some cases as specific prayers from rain or fine weather).
As Obon draws to a close, there is a very particular way to say goodbye to your vegetable steeds.
📢DO NOT EAT THEM!
Spirits generally depart our world via water, so it is common to leave the cucumber and eggplant by rivers. You can also bury them or sprinkle in salt and throw away.
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