Introduction
Understanding Traditional religion of the Ryūkyū
The ryūkyūane religion shares certain traits with Shintō and East Asian cultures, but has a history of its own. Women have long held a major ritual place, including in the former Ryūkyū kingdom.
The kingdom organized a network of priests, headed by the king's relative, "kikoe-ōgimi".
To be retained
Four essential principles
- The ryūkyūane religion shares certain traits with Shintō and East Asian cultures, but has a history of its own.
- The kingdom organized a network of priests, headed by the king's relative, "kikoe-ōgimi".
- The ancestors protect the family if they are properly honored.
- forefathers, ritualist women and sacred natural places form the pillars of a singular island tradition.
Small timeline
A tradition shaped by history
Origins and training
The kingdom organized a network of priests, headed by the king's relative, "kikoe-ōgimi".
Historical developments
The Sefa-utaki site became a sacred centre.
Ritual life and teachings
The ancestors protect the family if they are properly honored.
A living and plural tradition
Japan's annexation in 1879, and the Okinawa War, disrupted institutions; domestic and community practices nevertheless continued.
History and development
The kingdom organized a network of priests, headed by the king's relative, "kikoe-ōgimi*, and the Sefa-utaki site became a sacred centre.
Japan's annexation in 1879, and the Okinawa War, disrupted institutions; domestic and community practices nevertheless continued.
Worldview, beliefs and practices
The ancestors protect the family if they are properly honored. Family graves, home altars and spiritual celebrations structure the family's relationship. *utaki* are often woods, rocks or clearings without monumental building.
Prayers are addressed to the tutelary powers. *yuta* can counsel, diagnose a spiritual disorder or transmit an ancestral message.
Texts, symbols and transmission
The *omoro sōshi*, songs compiled in the 16th-17th century, preserve religious and royal poetry. Symbols: sacred fire, grove, sea, cave, family grave.
The *hinukan*, presence of the home, connects home and community.
What research can and cannot say
Assimilating this tradition to the "shintō d
References