Yakuza Ritual Practices explores the traditional ceremonies and codes of conduct that define Japanese organized crime, revealing how these rituals maintain internal cohesion and project power. It delves into the enduring significance of tradition in shaping Yakuza identity, illustrating how practices like the sakazuki exchange (a ritualistic sake sharing) and elaborate irezumi (tattoos) reinforce group loyalty and hierarchical structures.
Understanding these rituals requires an appreciation of Japanese history and social values, as the book traces the Yakuza's origins and examines concepts like obligation and ancestor veneration. The book argues that these seemingly outdated practices actively cultivate belonging, legitimize authority, and distinguish the Yakuza from mainstream society.
Focusing on practices like initiation rites and yubitsume (finger cutting), the book analyzes their symbolic weight and functional role within the organization. By examining ethnographic studies, historical documents, and Yakuza memoirs, Yakuza Ritual Practices provides an in-depth analysis of how these rituals contribute to the Yakuza's resilience and ability to adapt across chapters, despite societal pressure and legal changes.
