Futomani

What it is

Futomani is a Japanese Shinto practice used to predict future occurrences. It relies on reading the physical changes in animal bone. Specifically, practitioners look at how the shoulder blade of a stag breaks when heated. This method is considered an ancient form of oracle work within the Shinto tradition.

Where it comes from

The practice is believed to be very old, possibly starting during the Jōmon period. It predates the use of tortoiseshell divination, which was brought to Japan from China. Archaeological findings support the idea that this bone-reading technique has deep roots in the region.

How it is done

Heaters warm the shoulder blade of a stag until it cracks. The pattern of these fissures is then examined by a practitioner. They interpret these lines and shapes to understand what might happen in the future. This process is performed as a ritual act.

Tools and materials

The primary tool is the shoulder blade of a stag. Heat is applied to the bone to create the necessary cracks for reading. The kami Uraniwa-no-Kami, also called Futonorito-no-Mikoto, is the spirit associated with this specific type of divination.

What it is for

People use futomani to gain insight into upcoming events. It serves as a way to see what lies ahead through the medium of bone. In modern times, it is also linked to aikido, where it supports kotodama practices.

Who does it

Shinto priests or specialists conduct the readings. The practice is maintained at shrines, such as the one on Mount Mitake, where it occurs annually. It is also studied by martial artists who incorporate it into their spiritual training.

Peoples and places

This tradition belongs to the Shinto faith of Japan. It remains active in specific locations like Mount Mitake. While tortoiseshell methods came from outside, futomani is viewed as an indigenous Japanese development with long historical continuity.

What people believe

Shinto beliefs underpin the practice. Diviners trust that the kami can reveal truths through the bone. Uraniwa-no-Kami is the divine figure invoked for this purpose. The cracks are seen as messages rather than random damage.

When it is done

The ritual is held as an annual event at the shrine on Mount Mitake. No other specific festivals or seasonal dates are mentioned for general practice beyond this yearly occurrence.

How scholars and sceptics see it

Archaeologists point to the Jōmon period as a possible start date. Historians note the contrast with later Chinese-influenced tortoiseshell methods. The practice is studied as part of Shinto history and its evolution.

Compare and confuse

It is often compared to other bone-divination systems like oracle bones. Unlike those, futomani uses deer scapulae specifically. It differs from tortoiseshell reading, which arrived later from China.

Today

Futomani survives today primarily at the shrine on Mount Mitake. It is performed there each year. Some aikido practitioners also reference it as part of their broader study of energy and language in martial arts.

Questions people ask about Futomani

Good reading and sources

• Futomani on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data