The exact meaning of ‘Fumizuki’
is somewhat obscure. Some think that in the lazy days of midsummer, between the
planting and harvesting seasons, people had time to write and read letters and
poetry. Another theory is that the month was originally ‘Fumuzuki’
which means ‘swollen month’, referring to the swelling rice grains in the
fields. This may be another case of ‘Ateji’ distorting the
meaning of the name.
July is represented by the ‘Hagi’ (Bush Clover)
and ‘Inoshishi’ (wild Boar). The Bush Clover is related to the
Pea plant, and usually blooms in July through October. Wild Boars are said to like
to nest, or sleep, in the Bush Clover. Wild boars are one of the 12 animals of
the Chinese zodiac, and are symbols of bravery and affection. However, to
villagers in the mountains the boars can be dangerous pests that destroy crops
and gardens.
As followers of Buddhism, the Japanese tended not to eat the
meat of four legged animals. Fish and birds were acceptable meats to eat. This
accounts for some of the unusual classifications of animals in Edo period Japan. Frogs and Lizards were classified as insects, and Rabbits
were considered Birds. Accordingly, the wild Boar is sometimes referred to
as ‘Yamakujira’ or mountain-Whale, which made it a Fish.
Sometimes the meat of wild Boar was called ‘Botan’ (Peony).
The meat of Deer was called ‘Momiji’ (Maple) and that of the Horse
was ‘Sakura’ (Cherry blossoms). In this way the pious Buddhists
could pretend to eat as vegetarians.
Design notes: Again due to graphical limitations I decided to just show the Boars head peeking out of the bush clover(this is consistent with the Deer and Maple card in my deck).
ReplyDelete