社家 · しゃけ · priesthood
shake
Hereditary priestly families in Shinto.
Definition
Shake refers to families traditionally recognized as priestly lineages. Such families often hold ancestral knowledge and secret rites related to specific kami, inheriting their roles across generations. Notable examples include the Senge of Izumo and Kitajima families, who maintain familial ties to their respective shrines. Shake not only serve as leaders within their communities but also contribute to preserving Shinto practices.
Etymology
The term shake signifies 'shrine family', indicating the hereditary nature of these priestly roles.