One of the highlights of the Soma Nomaoi is the Nomakake, where spectators can witness people dressed in white capturing horses barehanded. These individuals in white are called “Okobito.” They are people who have held a special role since the Soma domain era, and their existence is deeply intertwined with the traditions of the Nomaoi.
History of the Okobito: Servants of the Soma Domain
The term “Okobito” refers to an official position (status) within the Soma Domain. Similar positions existed in other domains and the shogunate, sometimes called “Komono.” They were servants who attended to the lord's personal needs and ran errands, serving as important figures who worked closely with the lord on a daily basis.
Duties of the Oshōnin
The Oshōnin's responsibilities were diverse. For example, they performed roles such as:
Personal Attendants to the Lord
They carried out daily support tasks, such as serving the lord's meals and running errands. Because they spent so much time near the lord, they may have developed closer relationships with him than even high-ranking samurai.
Role on the Battlefield
When war broke out, the Oshōnin carried the lord's banner while guarding important figures. This role was akin to a modern “bodyguard,” where they risked their lives to protect the lord's safety.
Their role in the Wild Horse Chase
Among the Oshiro, their role in the Wild Horse Chase was particularly notable. With swift movements and high skill, they captured wild horses that had been cornered. This role was highly specialized and remains a crucial highlight in the modern Wild Horse Chase festival.
Differences from Other Domains' Oshibito
While other domains and the shogunate had similar roles, the Soma domain's Oshibito possessed unique characteristics. While those in other domains sometimes engaged in covert work akin to ninja or spies, the defining feature of the Soma domain's Oshibito was their role supporting the sacred event of the Wild Horse Chase.
Modern Oshibito
Today, the mounted warriors participating in the Wild Horse Chase have taken on the role of the Oshibito. They train diligently to preserve this tradition. Their skills are highly advanced, and the bare-handed capture of horses seen during the Wild Horse Chase scenes is truly spectacular. However, spectators must absolutely not attempt to imitate this. The Wild Horse Chase is an extremely dangerous task that relies entirely on the professional skill and spirit of its practitioners.
