The libation spatula ikupasuy is placed across a bowl of sake or millet beer during ceremonies. bowl of sake or millet beer, with the pointed end pointing to the left. This This end, known as the "tongue", is dipped into the liquid in order to sprinkle it on ritual objects, the the earth or a fireplace. When drinking, the ikupasuy is held on the edge of the bowl. the edge of the bowl. This was misunderstood by earlier visitors as a gesture, to keep the beard away from the liquid, resulting in the term "beard lifter". resulted.