 | This articledescribes a work or element of fiction in a primarilyin-universe style. Pleasehelp rewrite it toexplain the fiction more clearly and provide non-fictional perspective.(December 2011) (Learn how and when to remove this message) |
Abura-sumashi (油すまし,"Oil Presser") is a rare creature from thefolklore ofAmakusa inKumamoto Prefecture that lives in themountain passes ofKumamoto.[1]
This spirit, which surprises people on the Kusazumigoe mountain pass,[citation needed] is thought to be theghost of a human who stole oil and fled into thewoods.[citation needed]
In the days before electricity,oil was a very valuable commodity, necessary for lighting and heating a house. As such, it was thought that the theft of oil, particularly from temples and shrines, could lead to punishment via reincarnation as ayōkai.[2]
In many stories an oldgrandmother walking a mountain pass with hergrandchildren will say, “You know, a long time ago, an abura-sumashi used to live in these parts,” and a mysterious voice will call out in reply, “I still do!”[2] Or on rare occasions the abura-sumashi will appear to thetravelers, materializing out of thin air.[citation needed]
Inmodern media theabura-sumashi is often depicted as,"a squat creature with astraw-coat covered body and a potato-like or stony head,"[2] an appearance inspired by the artwork ofShigeru Mizuki.[3]