Who is Shoki-san? - A being who exorcises evil spirits and protects tranquility
Shoki-san is a being who exorcises evil spirits and protects tranquility
If you look up at the rooftops of Kyoto's townhouses, you will occasionally come across a small statue glaring at something with a sharp gaze. The statue carries a sword, has a long beard, and looks more demonic than an oni. But he is not a threat to us. Rather, he is there to exorcise evil spirits and protect tranquility. His name is "Shoki-san." The Shoki statue, which stands as if blending into the Kyoto landscape, has been watching over people's lives since ancient times.
Shoki is not just a talisman. His figure is imbued with history, faith, and the wishes of the people. In this article, we will delve a little deeper into the origins and role of Shoki, as well as his modern-day significance.
A talismanic god from China
The roots of Shoki date back to the Tang Dynasty in China. A young man named Shoki passed the imperial examination for civil service, but was denied a position because of his ugly appearance. Dejected, Shoki took his own life. Later, when Tang Emperor Xuanzong fell ill, Shoki appeared in his dream and defeated an evil spirit. Upon waking, Xuanzong found himself cured and had Shoki's image painted, and it is said that this painting has since become popular as a talisman against evil spirits.
From this anecdote, Shoki came to be worshipped as a god of protection from epidemics, evil spirits, and academic success. Shoki's image of honesty and gratitude, uninfluenced by appearances, resonates with people throughout the ages.
Guardian deities on the roof - a Kyoto custom
Belief in Shoki is said to have spread in Japan since the end of the Heian period, and is particularly well-established as a unique custom in Kyoto. The reason for placing a statue of Shoki on the roof of a townhouse is to prevent evil spirits repelled by the onigawara tiles from entering neighboring houses. The idea is that by placing Shoki on the roof as a stronger presence, he will exorcise evil spirits and protect the home.
This custom also reflects the unique aesthetics of Kyoto residents. If the house next door has a Shoki statue, people will silently place one in their own home as well - there is a silent, unspoken sense of solidarity, as if to protect one another. Shoki statues are not merely decorative, but they help to create a harmonious atmosphere in the town.
Shoki also appears in May dolls
In the Kanto region, there is a custom of displaying hanging scrolls and dolls of Shoki on Boys' Day. Shoki has been popular as a symbol of hope for the healthy growth of boys. During the Sengoku period, it is said that warlords would depict Shoki on their banners and battle coats, as the name "Shoki" sounds good as "chance of victory."
In this way, Shoki has been accepted in various forms depending on the region and era, and has played the role of a guardian deity. From statues placed outdoors to hanging scrolls displayed indoors, his appearances vary, but they all share the same wish to "exorcise evil spirits."
Shoki's message resonates today
The story of Shoki speaks to us as a man who remained true to his integrity and obligations, unswayed by appearances or reputations. His sharp gaze may be directed not only at external demons, but also at inner doubts and anxieties. For us living in the modern age, Shoki's figure holds deep meaning as a symbol of the "strength to protect tranquility."
Perhaps we need someone like Shoki especially in this age of invisible anxiety and unspoken impatience. Though he wields a sword and looks like a demon, he is there not to hurt anyone, but to protect them.
This way of being, which is also in line with WABISUKE's philosophy - to have strength in order to protect tranquility - resonates deeply in the creation of space, the choice of words, and relationships with people. Shoki is not just a legendary figure, but an "invisible guardian" who lives in our daily lives.