What do sumo wrestlers do to show the match is a religious ceremony, and why do they sometimes wear socks in the ring?

Sumo wrestling, a traditional Japanese sport, is deeply rooted in Shinto rituals and religious practices. The matches are not merely physical contests but are imbued with spiritual significance, reflecting the ancient belief that the wrestlers are engaging in a sacred act. The rituals performed before, during, and after the matches are designed to honor the gods, purify the space, and ensure the wrestlers’ spiritual readiness. This article explores the various ways sumo wrestlers demonstrate that their matches are religious ceremonies, and it also delves into the curious practice of wearing socks in the ring, which, while seemingly out of place, has its own symbolic and practical explanations.

The Ritualistic Nature of Sumo Wrestling

Sumo wrestling is more than just a sport; it is a cultural and religious event that has been practiced in Japan for centuries. The rituals associated with sumo are deeply intertwined with Shintoism, the indigenous religion of Japan. Shinto emphasizes the worship of kami (spirits or gods) and the importance of purity and harmony. Sumo wrestlers, or rikishi, are seen as modern-day embodiments of these ancient traditions, and their matches are conducted with a level of reverence that underscores their spiritual significance.

Pre-Match Rituals: Purification and Preparation

Before a sumo match begins, a series of rituals are performed to purify the ring and the wrestlers. The ring, or dohyō, is considered a sacred space, and its construction follows strict guidelines. The dohyō is made of clay and covered with a thin layer of sand, and it is blessed by a Shinto priest before any matches take place. The priest performs a ritual called the dohyō-iri, which involves the sprinkling of salt and the offering of prayers to the gods. This ritual is meant to purify the ring and to invoke the protection of the gods during the matches.

The wrestlers themselves also engage in purification rituals before entering the ring. They clap their hands to summon the attention of the gods, stomp their feet to drive away evil spirits, and throw salt to purify the ring. These actions are not merely symbolic; they are believed to have real spiritual power, and they serve to prepare the wrestlers both mentally and physically for the match ahead.

The Match as a Religious Ceremony

Once the match begins, the religious nature of sumo wrestling becomes even more apparent. The wrestlers face each other in the center of the ring, and before they engage in combat, they perform a series of ritualistic movements. They squat down, place their fists on the ground, and stare intently at each other. This moment, known as the shikiri, is a time of intense concentration and spiritual preparation. The wrestlers are not just preparing for a physical contest; they are also aligning themselves with the divine forces that govern the match.

The match itself is conducted with a level of formality and respect that reflects its religious significance. The wrestlers are expected to show respect to their opponents, the referees, and the gods throughout the match. Any display of disrespect or unsportsmanlike behavior is considered a violation of the sacred nature of the event and can result in severe penalties.

Post-Match Rituals: Gratitude and Reflection

After the match, the wrestlers once again engage in rituals to express their gratitude to the gods and to reflect on the outcome of the match. The winner typically performs a brief victory dance, known as the yumitori-shiki, which is meant to honor the gods and to celebrate the successful completion of the match. The loser, on the other hand, is expected to bow respectfully and to accept the outcome with humility.

The post-match rituals also include the presentation of prizes and awards, which are often accompanied by prayers and offerings to the gods. These prizes are not just rewards for the wrestlers’ physical prowess; they are also symbols of the divine favor that the wrestlers have earned through their performance in the ring.

The Curious Case of Socks in the Ring

One of the more unusual aspects of sumo wrestling is the occasional practice of wrestlers wearing socks, or tabi, in the ring. This practice seems at odds with the traditional image of sumo wrestlers, who are typically barefoot during matches. However, there are several reasons why a wrestler might choose to wear socks, and these reasons are rooted in both practical and symbolic considerations.

Practical Reasons for Wearing Socks

One of the primary reasons a sumo wrestler might wear socks is to protect their feet from injury. The dohyō is made of hard clay, and the wrestlers’ feet are subjected to significant impact during matches. Wearing socks can provide a layer of cushioning and protection, reducing the risk of cuts, bruises, and other injuries. Additionally, socks can help to keep the wrestlers’ feet warm, which is particularly important during colder months or in outdoor matches.

Another practical reason for wearing socks is to improve traction on the dohyō. The surface of the ring can become slippery, especially if it has been wet or if the wrestlers have been throwing salt. Socks with textured soles can provide better grip, allowing the wrestlers to maintain their footing and perform their moves more effectively.

Symbolic Reasons for Wearing Socks

While the practical reasons for wearing socks are important, there are also symbolic reasons why a sumo wrestler might choose to do so. In Japanese culture, socks are often associated with cleanliness and purity. By wearing socks, a wrestler may be signaling their commitment to maintaining the purity of the ring and their respect for the sacred nature of the match.

Additionally, socks can be seen as a symbol of humility and modesty. In a sport where physical strength and dominance are highly valued, wearing socks can serve as a reminder that the wrestlers are not just powerful athletes but also humble servants of the gods. This act of humility can be seen as a way of honoring the spiritual aspects of sumo wrestling and of acknowledging the divine forces that govern the match.

Conclusion

Sumo wrestling is a unique and fascinating sport that combines physical prowess with deep spiritual and religious significance. The rituals performed before, during, and after the matches are designed to honor the gods, purify the space, and ensure the wrestlers’ spiritual readiness. These rituals are not just empty gestures; they are an integral part of the sport, reflecting the ancient belief that sumo wrestling is a sacred act.

The practice of wearing socks in the ring, while seemingly out of place, is also rooted in both practical and symbolic considerations. Whether it is to protect the wrestlers’ feet, improve traction, or signal humility and respect for the sacred nature of the match, the wearing of socks is a reminder that sumo wrestling is more than just a physical contest—it is a religious ceremony that demands reverence and respect.

Related Q&A

Q: Why do sumo wrestlers throw salt before a match?

A: Sumo wrestlers throw salt as part of a purification ritual. The act of throwing salt is believed to drive away evil spirits and to purify the ring, ensuring that the match is conducted in a sacred and spiritually clean space.

Q: What is the significance of the dohyō in sumo wrestling?

A: The dohyō, or sumo ring, is considered a sacred space in Shinto tradition. It is constructed according to strict guidelines and is blessed by a Shinto priest before matches. The dohyō represents the boundary between the physical and spiritual worlds, and the wrestlers’ actions within the ring are seen as a form of communion with the gods.

Q: Why do sumo wrestlers perform the yumitori-shiki after a match?

A: The yumitori-shiki, or victory dance, is performed by the winner of a sumo match as a way of honoring the gods and celebrating the successful completion of the match. It is a ritualistic expression of gratitude and respect, reflecting the spiritual significance of sumo wrestling.

Q: Are there any other unusual practices in sumo wrestling?

A: Yes, there are several other unusual practices in sumo wrestling, such as the use of a ceremonial apron called a kesho-mawashi during pre-match rituals, and the practice of wrestlers clapping their hands and stomping their feet to summon the attention of the gods. These practices are all part of the rich tapestry of rituals that make sumo wrestling a unique and deeply spiritual sport.