７００年前から催されている上げ馬神事はことしも開催されるとか。
動物虐待をしてまでどんな意味があるのかしりたいです。
農作物の吉兆はこの占いでわかるとはおもえません。
"The horseback ritual, which has been held for 700 years, is said to be taking place again this year. I would like to know the meaning behind it, especially considering the possible animal cruelty. I find it hard to believe that it reveals any auspicious signs for crops.
from Asahi news paper item
Improvement Measures for "Age Uma Shinji" Horse-Riding Ritual
In response to concerns of potential animal cruelty during the "Age Uma Shinji" horse-riding ritual, held annually in May at the Tado Taisha Shrine in Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture, recognized as a prefectural intangible folk cultural asset, the Tado Taisha Shrine and the representatives' assembly, composed of shrine parishioners, announced on the 22nd that they have implemented measures to alleviate the burden on horses. The event is scheduled to take place on May 4th and 5th this year.
During the ritual, young riders guide horses up a steep slope, attempting to overcome a roughly 2-meter-high earthen wall, symbolizing the prediction of a prosperous harvest.
The proposed improvements include the removal of the earthen wall, making the slope less steep, and enhancing the soil to minimize stress on the horses' legs. Additionally, precautions will be taken, such as having a veterinarian and horse-drawn carts on standby in case of accidents.
In response to recommendations from experts, the use of bamboo whips will be modified for equestrian purposes only, and they will be used solely as signals to communicate with the horses, eliminating any punitive application.
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