Learn about itLearn onlyLiving tradition
This page describes the practice. There is deliberately no automated reading for it — see the notes below.
Background
Futomani is a traditional Shinto system that reads the cracks formed by heating a stag’s shoulder blade. It probably predates tortoiseshell divination imported from China, and it is still practised as an annual event at the Shinto shrine on Mount Mitake.
How it works
A deer scapula is heated and the resulting crack pattern is interpreted by shrine priests.
Notes and limits
Culture: A shrine ritual performed by priests; described only.
Safety: Never harm animals for divination.
At a glance
- Also called
- Futomani, 太占, Deer-bone divination
- Traditions
- Japanese, Shinto
- Regions
- East Asia
- You need
- Nothing
- Price
- Free