The Spiritual Monkey: Unveiling Japan’s Legends and Relics
When Western readers hear the phrase “The Monkey’s Paw,” thoughts inevitably drift to W.W. Jacobs’ chilling 1902 horror story about a cursed talisman that grants wishes with terrible consequences. However, in the rich tapestry of Japanese folklore and spirituality, the imagery of the monkey—and specifically the “hand” of the monkey—carries a vastly different, often auspicious meaning.
As a traveler exploring the depth of Japanese culture, it is essential to look past the Western gothic tropes and understand the Saru (monkey) as a complex figure: a messenger of the gods, a guardian against evil, and occasionally, the subject of mysterious temple relics.
Origins: The Divine Messenger
To understand the legend, one must look back to the very dawn of Japanese mythology. Unlike the mischievous tricksters often found in Western or Chinese lore, monkeys in Japan hold a sacred status in the Shinto religion.
The spiritual lineage of the monkey can be traced to Sarutahiko Okami, the leader of the earthly kami (gods). According to ancient texts, Sarutahiko is the deity of guidance, strength, and pathfinding. He famously greeted the sun goddess Amaterasu’s grandson when he descended to earth. While Sarutahiko is often depicted with tengu-like features, his name and nature are inextricably linked to the monkey spirit.
Furthermore, the Japanese word for monkey, saru (猿), is a homonym for the verb “to leave” or “to dispel” (去る). Consequently, the monkey is linguistically and spiritually charged with the power to drive away misfortune and bad luck.
The Legend: Relics and the Grasp of Fortune
While there is no single “Monkey’s Paw” fairy tale in Japan identical to the Western horror story, there is a fascinating cultural intersection regarding physical relics and the symbolism of the hand.
The Sacred Hand
In Japanese iconography, the monkey is often depicted holding a peach (symbolizing longevity) or a gohei (ritual wand). The “hand” of the monkey is revered for its dexterity and ability to “grasp” fortune. This is conceptually similar to the Kumade (bamboo rake) sold at festivals, which mimics the shape of a hand or claw to rake in wealth. In this context, a “Monkey’s Paw” is not a curse, but a powerful charm for financial success and retention of good luck.
Mummified Relics
For those interested in the darker or more mysterious side of travel, Japan is home to several temples that house “mummified” remains of mythical creatures, such as Kappa (water imps) or Tengu. Occasionally, mummified hands found in old storehouses are attributed to these yokai.
However, historically, some of these relics were actually preserved monkey paws. In Edo-period folklore, carrying a dried monkey paw or hand was sometimes believed to ward off particular illnesses or possess protective qualities for children. These artifacts, while macabre to the modern eye, were borne of a desperate desire for protection rather than malice.
The Three Wise Monkeys
The most famous visual legend remains the San-zaru (Three Wise Monkeys) found at Toshogu Shrine in Nikko: “See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.” These monkeys serve as guardians of the Koshin faith, protecting humans from having their sins reported to heaven.
Modern Culture: From Anime to Amulets
Today, the legacy of the sacred monkey permeates modern Japanese culture. You will not find cursed paws in souvenir shops, but you will find Migawari-zaru (Substitution Monkeys). These are red, cloth monkey charms often hung in strings at temples in Kyoto and Nara. They act as scapegoats, taking on physical pain or bad luck so the owner doesn’t have to.
In pop culture, the monkey’s spiritual strength is mirrored in anime and manga, from the transformative power of Saiyans in Dragon Ball (inspired by the Monkey King) to the various yokai spirits in series like Natsume Yuujinchou.
Traveler’s Tips: Where to Experience the Legend
If you want to connect with the spiritual history of the monkey in Japan, here are the top recommendations:
- Hie Shrine (Tokyo): Unlike most shrines guarded by Komainu (lion-dogs), Hie Shrine is guarded by statues of monkeys. It is a powerful spot for praying for business success and safe childbirth. Look for the monkey holding a baby.
- Nikko Toshogu Shrine (Tochigi): Visit the original wood carving of the Three Wise Monkeys. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Edo architecture.
- Yasaka Koshin-do (Kyoto): This colorful temple is famous for the hundreds of hanging kukurizaru (bound monkey) talismans. It is an incredibly photogenic spot that offers a deep dive into the Koshin folk faith.
- Jigokudani Monkey Park (Nagano): To see the living legends, visit the Snow Monkeys bathing in hot springs. While not a religious site, it highlights the unique bond between the land and these animals.
Sources & Further Reading
For those wishing to delve deeper into the mythology and history mentioned above, the following texts are essential:
- The Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters): The oldest chronicle in Japan, detailing the origins of deities including Sarutahiko.
- The Nihon Shoki (The Chronicles of Japan): Provides further classical accounts of Japanese mythology and history.
- Koshin Beliefs: The Three Wise Monkeys by A.W. Smith (Folklore academic papers regarding the Koshin-to stones).
By understanding the “Monkey’s Paw” through the lens of Japanese history, we move from fear to reverence, discovering a culture that finds divinity in nature and protection in the most unexpected places.