Historical Lunar Calendar Use
There was a practical aspect to using the
lunar calendar. Long ago, only the King or Emperor's astrologers
had knowledge of the moon's cycles. No one else could anticipate
exactly when the Holy Days would happen.
Of course, there were the required offering
tables, fruits, decorations, flowers, papers, incense, special holiday
foods, etc. which could only be bought a few days before the
celebration. Whoever had early access to those sources of goods
could buy the largest quantity at the lowest price. Then, as
soon as the upcoming holy day was officially announced, the common
people would rush to buy the necessary supplies. Whoever had
advance notification had the financial advantage and could make a
"killing" in the market!! Guarding the secret of the
calendar played a key role in keeping the economic power in the
ruler's family. To paraphrase Forrest Gump slightly:
"Power is as power does."
One of the significant aspects of the wonder
watercolors from Edo, Japan, is the symbolism that is actually a
secret code of revealing the correct lunar dates of the upcoming holy
days. The artists were performing their role as secret agents
(spies), and getting the word out to the provinces where their
friends, relatives and political allies resided. Why should only
a few insiders gain the benefit? Of course, if found out, the
artists could give up their lives with a quick chop on the neck.
(Contributed by Jonatha Johnson)
