The Fox and the Jewel - by Karen A Smyers (Paperback)

The Fox and the Jewel is a captivating ethnographic study that offers an in-depth look into the intricate world of Inari worship in contemporary Japan.

This book provides a richly detailed account of the multiple meanings and interpretations surrounding this revered deity, revealing the complex ways in which people make religious figures personally meaningful.

Through a series of insightful observations and interviews, Smyers sheds light on the communicative strategies that preserve the appearance of homogeneity among Inari worshippers, despite their diverse personal beliefs and practices. With a focus on the symbolism of the shape-shifting fox and the wish-fulfilling jewel, The Fox and the Jewel delves into the ways these symbols represent fertility, change, and growth in Japan.

This comprehensive study explores questions of institutional and popular power in religion, offering a unique perspective on the relationship between religious figures and their devotees.

Whether you're an anthropology enthusiast, a Japanophile, or simply interested in the intricacies of religious practice, this book is sure to captivate and inspire.