Arabaki (called Arahabaki in the Japanese version) is an enemy in Castlevania: Harmony of Dissonance. His form and movements are similar to those of a Schmoo, but his appearance and origins are somewhat different. Like the Schmoo, the Arabaki dives in from the side of the screen to attack. He is capable only of limited zigzag movement and seems to have no preference for what type of area he inhabits.
Origins
Ancient effigy depicting the god Arahabaki
Arahabaki is a Japanese Shinto god. He's usually portrayed as a figurine of a deformed woman. His cult had its roots since ancient times as a god who prevented disasters and dispelled curses. His first depictions date from more than 3,000 years ago.
The cult to Arahabaki extended throughout every region in Japan until the end of the 19th century, during the declining of the Edo period. Toward the beginning of the Meiji era, the cult to Arahabaki was forbidden by the Government as part of a modernization campaign. That didn't stop the people from continuing with their beliefs, though, and the cult to Arahabaki continued, although secretly, having his main worshiping center in Akihabara, Tokyo.
Rituals to Arahabaki could not be performed publicly during the repression; therefore, his believers started making female effigies to take his place as a revering icon, and were treated as souvenirs to avoid persecution by the Government.
Cult to Arahabaki still continues to this day in Akihabara, where shrines containing his image can be found in houses and shops, although they're not usually exposed to the public. However, every once in a year on his holy day (April 1st), his believers openly show their devotion.
Enemy Data
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