Saigū-Yumi

literally Priestess Bow

The Saigu-Yumi 祭宮 弓 is a symmetrical bow based on the Mongolian recurved bow; it is not to be confused with the asymmetrical Japanese Great Bow or War Bow, (which is up to nine feet long, whose handle is off center, 1/3 of the way up from the bottom end). The Bow is said to be one of the oldest and most sacred Japanese weapons; the first Emperor Jimmu is always depicted carrying a bow.

In Japan, a Miko will carry a Saigu-Yumi and a set of Hamaya as part of their religious regalia. In Former times, they were used quite literally in defense of the temple, just as Kikyou and Kaede do in the Inuyasha anime.

In Japan, it is universally believed that merely the twanging of a bowstring will frighten ghosts and evil spirits from the house. Further, even one Hamaya which has been made and blessed by a Shinto Priest, is believed to carry great protection and spiritual power. As a result, Hamaya are sold even today at shrines as an Engimono (good-luck charms). Hamaya and Hamayumi ("demon-breaking bows") were often given as gifts to celebrate the first New Year of a male baby's life.

per Robert G. Denig, (Journal of Combative Sport, Mar 2001) at ejmas.com/jcs/jcsart_denig_0301.htm

"Yumi-ya, bow and arrow, is used as synonymous with arms. And though a Samurai might swear by his sword, yet the most binding oath (and the one used officially) was always sealed by solemnly breaking in twain an arrow as he pronounced the words of the oath."

The bow is featured prominantly in the hands of Japanese deities. The guardian deities at the gates of Shinto temples, called Udajin and Sadaijin, are armed with bows. At the temple of the Sun Goddess at Ise, (one the most important Shinto Temples), one finds Tajikara (the strong-handed man) whose emblem is the bow. Tajikara is one of the highest ranking deities, second in importnce to Amatersau.