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Chikara-Mizu

What is Chikara-Mizu?

Chikara-mizu, which translates to "power water," is a ritual practice in sumo wrestling that involves wrestlers rinsing their mouths with water before entering the ring for a match. This ritual is part of the broader set of traditions and ceremonies that are integral to sumo, emphasizing purification and respect.

Significance and Procedure

  1. Purification: The primary purpose of chikara-mizu is purification. In Japanese culture, and particularly in Shinto practices, purification rituals are important for cleansing both the body and spirit. By rinsing their mouths, wrestlers symbolically cleanse themselves of impurities before competing.
  2. Procedure:
    • Receiving the Water: Before a match, a wrestler receives a ladle of water from another wrestler, usually one who has just competed or is about to compete next. This is done at the edge of the ring.
    • Rinsing: The wrestler takes a sip of the water, swishes it around in their mouth, and then spits it out into a spittoon. This act is performed in a respectful and deliberate manner.
    • Wiping the Mouth: After rinsing, the wrestler wipes their mouth with a piece of paper or cloth, known as chikara-gami ("power paper").
  3. Symbolism:
    • Cleansing: The act of rinsing the mouth is a symbolic gesture of cleansing and preparing oneself for the bout, both physically and spiritually.
    • Respect: This ritual also demonstrates respect for the opponent, the audience, and the sacred nature of the dohyo (sumo ring).
  4. Chikara-mizu in Context:
    • Part of Pre-Match Rituals: Chikara-mizu is one of several pre-match rituals that sumo wrestlers perform. Others include the shiko (leg-stomping exercise) and the throwing of salt to purify the ring.
    • Shared Tradition: The sharing of the ladle of water between wrestlers also emphasizes the communal and respectful nature of sumo wrestling, where rituals and traditions are shared among competitors.

Overall, chikara-mizu is a small but meaningful part of the rich tapestry of rituals that define sumo wrestling, highlighting the sport's deep connection to Japanese cultural and spiritual practices.

Related Article: Sumo: Pre-fight Customs and Rituals

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