Rethinking the practice of mizuko kuyō in contemporary Japan: Interviews with practitioners at a Buddhist temple in Tokyo

Abstract

Scholarly research in recent years has resulted in the publication of numerous books and articles on abortion in Japan, and on Buddhist rites (mizuko kuy6) for the spirit of the aborted fetus. Many of the generalizations and conclusions drawn from this research are based on practices at large temples that specialize in mizuko kuyo, and with which the women participants have only an ephemeral connection. Utilizing in-depth interviews with six women who participate in monthly mizuko kuyo observances at a Buddhist temple in Tokyo, we call into question a number of these generalizations about mizuko rites. Statements concerning the mental health, fear of retribution, and gullibility of women who participate in the ritual, as well as the exploitative nature of priests, must be modified in light of long-term practices at neighborhood temples that do not specialize in mizuko kuyo.