Onikku — Exploring the Ancient Roots of Modern Finance in Shinto

Hello, everyone.

Let me start with a quick question: Have you ever heard the term “Onikku”?

Today, I’d like to dedicate this post to the concept of Onikku. In modern Jinja Shinto, there is a support system within many shrines known as the “Onikku-ko” or “Onikku-kai.” ### What is the Onikku System? 

Essentially, it is a mutual support system where members contribute small amounts of money to cover the cost of the Omike (sacred food offerings)—such as rice, sake, and grains—that are presented to the deities every single day.

While the contribution amount varies depending on the shrine, the average is roughly 5,000 yen per person per year. If you break that down into a daily cost, it’s only about 13 to 14 yen a day.

I am personally very fond of this tradition. It allows us to participate in a ritual of gratitude for the "bountiful harvest"—the very foundation of our economy—by offering fresh rice, water, and sake to the divine.

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The Original "Investment Fund"?

I have a theory that this Onikku system might actually be the primitive ancestor of modern financial funds. That might sound like an exaggeration, but I truly believe it. Think about it: it involves collecting small amounts of money from an unspecified number of people to purchase offerings for a collective ritual.

The only real difference is whether there is a financial payout or not. Personally, I think the "spiritual dividends" are quite substantial! (laughs)

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Work as a Sacred Ritual

I’ve come to believe that what we consider "work" today is exactly what Shinto refers to as Matsuri (sacred service). Work is a form of divine service, and I believe it serves as a wonderful way to refine one’s character.

Occasionally at shrines, I see groups of people performing what they call "divine work." Sometimes they are proselytizing, chanting loudly, or forming circles without regard for their surroundings. In my view, a shrine's modern role is a place where individuals offer their personal gratitude for daily life to the deities.

Recently, I encountered such disruptive behavior at both the Ichinomiya (the head shrine of the region) and my local Ujigami shrine. I quietly performed a small purification of my own to clear the air—a sacred space filled with gratitude doesn't need that kind of ego-driven energy.

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A Life of Simple Prayer

My own spiritual practice is simple:

• Morning: I pray to the Sun deity.

• Night: I pray to the North Star.

• Daily Life: While working or making deliveries, if I see a mountain, a river, or the sky, I offer a prayer to them.

My prayers aren't for specific favors or petitions. I don't ask for anything at shrines. I’m not saying my way is "correct," but for me, prayer is simply an expression of gratitude for daily life.

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The Wisdom of the Past

It’s funny—I started by researching the Onikku system and somehow ended up at modern financial theory. But I suppose that’s okay.

On a side note, the water that springs from the rocks at Kifune Shrine (known as Goshinsui) is absolutely delicious. I’ve always wanted to offer this water to the altar in my home, so I purchased the dedicated bottles (300 yen each) and received the blessing of the sacred water. I am truly grateful.

It seems that so many aspects of our modern daily lives originated in Shinto or Buddhist traditions, evolving over time while maintaining their essence. As the Japanese proverb says: "On-ko-chi-shin"—by exploring the old, we understand the new.

Respectfully yours,

Asahi Hanasaki 

From this land of prayer, I, Asahi Hanasaki, am introducing the "Harmony of Wa" to the whole world. 

I am a delivery driver in Japan who also helps protect and maintain a traditional Shinto shrine and Buddhist temple. Balancing these two worlds gives me a unique perspective on modern society. Through my writing, I aim to share the warmth of mutual aid and help readers find the courage to live another day.