Hama Yumi (Demon-Breaking Bow) Decoration with Glass Case, Hama Ya (Demon-Breaking Arrows)

Hama Yumi (Demon-Breaking Bow) and Hama Ya (Demon-Breaking Arrow)

Height: 36cm, Width: 24.7cm, Depth: 22.8cm

The wooden frame at the top has a small chip. The glass case has some dirt. Please check the photos.
This is a used item, so please refrain from purchasing if you are looking for perfection.

A Hama Yumi is a bow-shaped amulet ornament displayed for a boy's first New Year. It is imbued with the meaning of warding off evil spirits and calamities, and wishing for the baby's good health and well-being.

Origin and Meaning of Hama Yumi

The Hama in Hama Yumi is written as demon-breaking bow, but originally, the target shot with a bow and arrow was called Hama. It is believed that the kanji characters 破魔 (Hama) were assigned to this word, imbuing it with the meaning of warding off evil spirits.

Historical Background
Historically, it originates from a ritual called Meigen no Gi, where the sound of a bowstring being plucked was used to drive away evil spirits. In the Heian period, drawing a bow was considered proof of a grown man, and it came to be given in samurai society to wish for the healthy growth and success of male children.

Modern Meaning
Today, it is given as a first amulet to protect a boy's life, as a lucky charm to ward off evil spirits and calamities and wish for good health and well-being.

Difference Between Hama Yumi and Hama Ya

While Hama Yumi is a decorative item consisting of a bow and arrow set, Hama Ya is a lucky charm consisting of only an arrow. Hama Ya received at shrines and temples are known as lucky charms to shoot down good fortune for the year.

Who Buys Them?

There are no strict rules about who buys Hama Yumi. However, according to old customs, it was common for the maternal grandparents to prepare them.

When and Where to Display

Hama Yumi are basically displayed during the New Year. Many families are unsure about the display period and storage methods, but compact and wall-hanging types have also appeared to accommodate modern housing situations.