8.2 Japanese mythology and its connection to Shinto religion
5 min read•august 15, 2024
Japanese mythology, deeply intertwined with Shinto religion, forms the backbone of ancient Japanese culture. It explains the creation of the world, the origins of deities, and the structure of the spiritual realm, shaping Japanese beliefs and practices for centuries.
The myths of and , the divine couple who created Japan, and the birth of major deities like , the sun goddess, are central to Shinto. These stories influence rituals, social norms, and even politics in Japan.
Izanagi and Izanami: The Japanese Creation Myth
Divine Couple and World Creation
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- Japanese centers around divine couple Izanagi and Izanami tasked with creating the world by primordial deities
- Izanagi and Izanami use jeweled spear to stir primordial ocean creating first landmass called
- Divine couple performs marriage ritual by circling celestial pillar
- First attempt results in malformed children due to Izanami speaking first
- Second attempt succeeds with Izanagi speaking first, creating Japanese islands and deities associated with natural phenomena (Mount Fuji, rivers, forests)
Underworld Journey and Deity Birth
- Myth explains Izanami's death during childbirth and Izanagi's journey to underworld
- Izanagi attempts to retrieve Izanami establishing concept of death and impurity in Japanese mythology
- Izanagi's failed rescue results in permanent separation of life and death realms
- Izanagi's purification ritual after returning from Yomi results in birth of important deities
- Amaterasu (sun goddess) born from left eye
- Tsukuyomi (moon god) born from right eye
- (storm god) born from nose
- Purification ritual establishes importance of cleansing in Shinto practices
Mythology and Shinto Religion
Foundation and Beliefs
- Shinto means "the way of the " Japan's indigenous religion intertwined with Japanese mythology and
- Japanese mythology serves as foundation for Shinto beliefs explaining
- Natural phenomena (earthquakes, volcanic eruptions)
- Origins of deities (birth of Amaterasu from Izanagi's eye)
- Structure of spiritual world (division between mortal realm and , the celestial plain)
- Concept of kami (sacred spirits or phenomena) derived from deities and supernatural beings in Japanese mythological texts
- Kami range from major deities (Amaterasu) to local spirits of trees, rocks, or rivers
Rituals and Practices
- Shinto rituals and practices often reenact or commemorate events from Japanese mythology
- dances performed at shrines depict mythological stories
- New Year's rituals symbolize renewal mirroring creation myths
- Shinto shrines dedicated to specific kami or mythological figures
- dedicated to Amaterasu
- associated with Ōkuninushi, kami of nation-building and relationships
- Cyclical nature of purification and pollution in Shinto practice rooted in mythological stories
- water purification ritual inspired by Izanagi's cleansing after visiting Yomi
Political and Social Connections
- Imperial family of Japan traces lineage to sun goddess Amaterasu as described in mythological texts
- Establishes divine right to rule connecting mythology to political legitimacy
- Emperor performs rituals as descendant of Amaterasu maintaining cosmic order
- Shinto mythology influences social structure and values
- Emphasis on harmony () derived from mythological balance between kami
- Concept of (festivals) rooted in mythological celebrations of kami
Major Shinto Deities
Celestial Deities
- Amaterasu sun goddess considered most important deity in Shinto pantheon
- Direct ancestor of Japanese imperial family
- Associated with agriculture, weaving, and cosmic order
- Tsukuyomi moon god completes celestial triad with Amaterasu and Susanoo
- Represents night sky and lunar cycles
- Often depicted in conflict with Amaterasu explaining separation of day and night
- Susanoo storm god and brother of Amaterasu associated with sea and storms
- Known for tumultuous relationship with Amaterasu in mythological narratives
- Slayer of the eight-headed serpent Yamata no Orochi
Terrestrial and Functional Deities
- kami of fertility, rice, agriculture, and industry
- One of most widely worshipped deities in Japan
- Often depicted with foxes as messengers
- Shrines characterized by red torii gates
- originally local deity became associated with archery and war
- Venerated as protector of Japan and its people
- Syncretized with Buddhist figure Ojin Emperor
- one of Seven Gods of Fortune associated with fishermen, merchants, and prosperity
- Often depicted holding fishing rod and large red sea bream
- Believed to bring good luck in business ventures
- deified spirit of scholar Sugawara no Michizane worshipped as kami of learning, scholarship, and calligraphy
- Shrines frequented by students before exams
- Associated with plum blossoms symbolizing perseverance
Japanese Mythology: Cultural Influence
Arts and Aesthetics
- Japanese mythology significantly shaped country's cultural identity influencing
- Art (ukiyo-e prints depicting mythological scenes)
- Literature (The Tale of Genji incorporating mythological motifs)
- Traditional performing arts (Noh and Kabuki theater portraying mythological stories)
- Concept of harmony with nature central to Japanese mythology influenced
- Japanese aesthetics ( appreciation of imperfection)
- Architecture (torii gates marking transition to sacred spaces)
- Garden design (zen gardens representing mythological landscapes)
Values and Social Norms
- Mythological narratives contributed to development of Japanese moral and ethical values emphasizing
- Loyalty (chugi) inspired by devotion of kami to their roles
- Filial piety (ko) reflected in mythological family relationships
- Importance of purification (kiyome) derived from myths like Izanagi's cleansing
- Japanese festivals (matsuri) often have roots in mythological events
- in Kyoto honoring protective kami
- in Osaka celebrating deified spirit of Sugawara no Michizane
- Influence of mythology on Japanese naming conventions
- Use of kanji characters associated with mythological concepts or deities in personal names (Akira meaning "bright" associated with Amaterasu)
- Place names reflecting mythological events or kami (Izumo referencing myths of Ōkuninushi)
Modern Interpretations and Environmental Impact
- Japanese popular culture frequently draws inspiration from mythological stories and characters
- Anime (Noragami featuring modernized kami)
- Manga (Inuyasha incorporating various yokai and mythological beings)
- Video games (Okami based on tale of Amaterasu)
- Concept of kami influenced Japanese attitudes towards nature and environment
- Contributing to conservation efforts (protection of around shrines)
- Preservation of sacred natural sites (Mount Fuji as object of worship)
- Shinto-inspired environmental movements promoting harmony with nature
Key Terms to Review (35)
Amaterasu: Amaterasu is the Japanese sun goddess and one of the principal deities in Shinto religion. She is regarded as the ruler of the Takamagahara, the heavenly realm, and is considered a central figure in Japanese mythology, often associated with light, fertility, and agriculture. Her mythological narratives play a crucial role in understanding the relationship between Shinto beliefs and Japanese cultural practices.
Ame-no-nuboko: Ame-no-nuboko is a mythical heavenly spear from Japanese mythology, specifically tied to the creation narrative within Shinto belief. It is said to have been used by the deity Izanagi and Izanami to create the islands of Japan, symbolizing the connection between the divine and the physical world. This spear plays a crucial role in the foundational myths of Japan, illustrating the interaction of deities with the natural world and setting the stage for the establishment of Shinto practices.
Animism: Animism is the belief system that ascribes spiritual essence to animals, plants, inanimate objects, and natural phenomena. This perspective holds that everything in the world possesses a spirit or soul, which connects closely to various cultural and religious practices. In the context of Japanese mythology and Shinto religion, animism plays a significant role, as it emphasizes the sacredness of nature and the presence of kami, or spirits, in various elements of the natural world.
Artistic representation: Artistic representation refers to the portrayal of subjects through various forms of art, including visual arts, performance, and literature. In the context of Japanese mythology and its connection to Shinto religion, artistic representation serves as a means to communicate spiritual beliefs, cultural narratives, and the values inherent in these traditions. Through these representations, the myths and deities of Shinto are brought to life, creating a visual and emotional connection between the divine and the people.
Creation Myth: A creation myth is a symbolic narrative that explains how the world and its inhabitants came into existence. These myths often serve as foundational stories for cultures, providing insight into their beliefs, values, and relationship with the divine. Creation myths frequently involve deities or supernatural forces and establish the framework for understanding natural phenomena, life, and humanity's place in the universe.
Ebisu: Ebisu is one of the Seven Lucky Gods in Japanese mythology, commonly associated with prosperity, good fortune, and abundance. Often depicted as a cheerful figure with a fishing rod and a large fish, Ebisu is celebrated for his role in bringing wealth and bountiful harvests, especially in relation to the sea. As a deity, he embodies the connection between the spiritual and agricultural realms, highlighting the importance of both in Shinto beliefs.
Edo Period: The Edo Period, also known as the Tokugawa Period, was a time in Japanese history that lasted from 1603 to 1868, characterized by the rule of the Tokugawa shogunate. This era saw the establishment of a stable, centralized government and significant developments in culture, economy, and society, while also allowing for the flourishing of Japanese mythology and the Shinto religion.
Folklore: Folklore refers to the traditional beliefs, customs, stories, songs, and practices of a particular culture, often passed down orally through generations. It encompasses a wide range of cultural expressions, including myths, legends, fairy tales, and proverbs, and plays a significant role in shaping community identity and values. In Japanese culture, folklore is closely intertwined with mythology and the Shinto religion, highlighting the relationship between spiritual beliefs and cultural practices.
Gion Matsuri: Gion Matsuri is an annual festival held in Kyoto, Japan, recognized as one of the most famous festivals in the country. It takes place throughout July and features elaborate floats, religious rituals, and community involvement, deeply rooted in local traditions and beliefs. The festival has connections to Shinto, honoring deities and providing a platform for mythological narratives to be celebrated through vibrant displays.
Hachiman: Hachiman is the Japanese god of war, widely revered in Japanese mythology and associated with the protection of warriors and the samurai. As a significant deity in Shintoism, Hachiman embodies both martial prowess and agricultural fertility, showing the interconnectedness of warfare and sustenance in Japanese culture. His worship has evolved over time, blending aspects of indigenous beliefs and influences from Buddhism.
Heian Period: The Heian Period was a time in Japanese history that lasted from 794 to 1185, marked by the flourishing of court culture, art, and literature in the capital city of Heian-kyo (modern-day Kyoto). This era is significant for the development of Japanese aesthetics and the establishment of cultural norms, while also seeing the integration of mythology and Shinto beliefs into everyday life and governance.
Inari: Inari is a significant deity in Japanese mythology, known as the god or goddess of rice, fertility, and agriculture. This figure is deeply connected to the Shinto religion, often depicted alongside foxes, which are considered to be its messengers. Inari's worship highlights the importance of agriculture in Japanese culture and reflects the close relationship between nature and spirituality in Shinto beliefs.
Ise Grand Shrine: The Ise Grand Shrine is a significant Shinto shrine located in Ise, Japan, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu, who is considered the ancestor of the Japanese imperial family. The shrine consists of two main shrines, Naiku and Geku, and plays a crucial role in Japanese mythology and religious practices, symbolizing the connection between the divine and the Japanese people.
Izanagi: Izanagi is a prominent deity in Japanese mythology, known as the male creator god who, alongside his counterpart Izanami, played a crucial role in the formation of the Japanese islands and the pantheon of gods. The story of Izanagi illustrates themes of life, death, and purification, highlighting the connection between Japanese mythology and the Shinto religion, which honors these deities through rituals and practices.
Izanami: Izanami is a prominent goddess in Japanese mythology, known as the creator of the Japanese islands and the mother of many deities. She, along with her counterpart Izanagi, plays a crucial role in the Shinto religion, representing themes of life, death, and the cyclical nature of existence. Their story reflects fundamental beliefs about creation and the afterlife in Japanese culture.
Izumo Taisha: Izumo Taisha is one of the oldest and most significant Shinto shrines in Japan, dedicated to the deity Okuninushi, who is associated with agriculture, medicine, and good fortune. This shrine serves as a key site for various rituals and festivals, reflecting its deep connection to Japanese mythology and the Shinto religion. As a focal point of worship, Izumo Taisha also represents the cultural and spiritual heritage of the Japanese people.
Kagura: Kagura is a traditional form of Shinto theatrical dance and music, performed as a ritual to honor the kami (spirits or gods) in Japanese mythology. This performance is deeply rooted in Shinto practices and reflects the intertwining of myth and ritual, where various stories from Japan's ancient history and mythology are reenacted to convey messages, celebrate seasonal changes, and invite blessings from the deities.
Kami: Kami are the spirits or deities in Shinto, the indigenous religion of Japan. They are believed to inhabit all elements of nature, from mountains and rivers to trees and animals, and can represent ancestors as well as natural forces. The concept of kami is central to Japanese mythology and Shinto practices, embodying the reverence for nature and the interconnectedness of life.
Kojiki: The Kojiki, or 'Records of Ancient Matters', is a foundational text of Japanese mythology and history, completed in 712 CE. It serves as one of the oldest surviving documents in Japan, detailing the creation myths, divine ancestry, and the early history of the Japanese imperial family, intertwining myth with historical events.
Matsuri: Matsuri refers to traditional Japanese festivals that celebrate various aspects of life, including agricultural harvests, seasonal changes, and community spirit. These festivals are deeply intertwined with Shinto beliefs, often honoring local deities and celebrating the relationship between humans and the divine. Matsuri not only serve as religious observances but also foster community ties, allowing people to come together in joy and celebration.
Misogi: Misogi is a traditional Japanese purification ritual associated with Shinto practices, aimed at cleansing the body and spirit. This practice often involves water, either through immersion or splashing, and is deeply rooted in Japanese mythology, emphasizing the importance of purity in maintaining a harmonious relationship with the divine.
Nihon shoki: Nihon Shoki, also known as the 'Chronicles of Japan,' is a historical text completed in 720 CE that serves as one of the oldest records of Japanese history, mythology, and culture. It is a crucial source for understanding the origins of the Japanese imperial lineage, detailing myths, legends, and the establishment of Shinto beliefs alongside the development of early Japanese society and government.
Onogoro-shima: Onogoro-shima is a mythical island in Japanese mythology, regarded as the first land created by the deities Izanagi and Izanami during the formation of Japan. This island is significant as it represents the starting point of Japanese civilization and is intimately tied to the origins of the Shinto religion, symbolizing the connection between the divine and the natural world.
Sacred groves: Sacred groves are natural areas, often forests or clusters of trees, that hold religious significance and are considered holy within various cultures and belief systems. In the context of Japanese mythology and the Shinto religion, these groves serve as places where kami, or deities, are believed to reside, representing a deep connection between nature and spirituality.
Shichi-go-san: Shichi-go-san is a traditional Japanese festival celebrated on November 15th, marking the growth of children aged seven, five, and three. The name translates to 'seven-five-three,' and it is an important rite of passage in Japan, involving visits to shrines where children are dressed in beautiful kimonos and receive blessings from Shinto priests. This custom connects deeply with Japanese mythology and Shinto beliefs, symbolizing the transition of children into different stages of their lives.
Shrine: A shrine is a sacred place dedicated to a specific deity or spiritual being, often containing images, relics, or objects of veneration. In Japanese mythology and Shinto religion, shrines serve as important sites for rituals and worship, connecting the physical world with the divine. They often reflect the beliefs and traditions surrounding the kami, the spirits worshiped in Shinto.
Susanoo: Susanoo is a prominent deity in Japanese mythology, recognized as the god of storms and the sea, as well as a central figure in Shinto belief. He is known for his tumultuous nature, often associated with chaos and conflict, but also revered for his heroic deeds, including slaying monsters and protecting humanity. As the younger brother of the sun goddess Amaterasu and the moon god Tsukuyomi, Susanoo's stories intertwine with themes of sibling rivalry and reconciliation, highlighting significant aspects of Shinto cosmology.
Takamagahara: Takamagahara is a divine realm in Japanese mythology, often considered the dwelling place of the kami, or gods. It is depicted as a celestial paradise that serves as the source of divine authority and power within Shinto beliefs, linking the mythological aspects of Japanese culture with its religious practices. This sacred space is associated with the creation myths and serves as a backdrop for many stories involving the deities that shape the spiritual landscape of Japan.
Tenjin: Tenjin is the deified spirit of Sugawara no Michizane, a prominent scholar and politician from the Heian period in Japan. He is revered as the god of education, learning, and scholarship, often invoked by students seeking success in their studies. His significance is deeply embedded in both Japanese mythology and the Shinto religion, where he represents the fusion of historical figures with divine attributes.
Tenjin matsuri: Tenjin Matsuri is a traditional Japanese festival held in Osaka, dedicated to the spirit of Sugawara no Michizane, a scholar and politician deified as Tenjin. Celebrated annually on July 24th and 25th, this vibrant event showcases a unique blend of Shinto rituals, parades, and boat processions, illustrating the rich cultural heritage linked to Japanese mythology and the Shinto religion. The festival not only honors Tenjin's legacy but also reinforces community ties and the spiritual connection between the people and their ancestral deities.
The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter: The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter is a Japanese folktale believed to be one of the oldest written stories in Japan, narrating the life of a bamboo cutter who discovers a tiny, radiant princess inside a bamboo stalk. This story not only reflects themes of love and loss but also embodies elements of Japanese mythology, intertwining with the Shinto religion through its connections to nature, divinity, and the idea of spirits residing within natural elements.
Torii gate: A torii gate is a traditional Japanese structure that symbolizes the transition from the profane to the sacred. Typically found at the entrance of Shinto shrines, these gates serve as a spiritual boundary, marking the entrance to a holy space where kami, or spirits, reside. The design of a torii gate often includes two vertical pillars and a horizontal beam, embodying simplicity and elegance while also reflecting important aspects of Japanese culture and belief systems.
Wa: Wa is a Japanese term that signifies harmony and peace, emphasizing the importance of group cohesion and social order in Japanese culture. This concept is deeply rooted in Japanese mythology and plays a significant role in Shinto religion, where maintaining harmony among people and between humans and deities is vital for spiritual well-being. Wa not only fosters a sense of community but also reflects the broader values and practices of Japanese society, particularly in its rituals and beliefs associated with Shinto.
Wabi-sabi: Wabi-sabi is a Japanese aesthetic concept that finds beauty in imperfection, impermanence, and the natural cycle of growth and decay. It emphasizes simplicity, minimalism, and the appreciation of transience, which connects deeply to Japanese cultural values, including those found in mythology and the Shinto religion. By recognizing the beauty in the fleeting moments of life and the natural world, wabi-sabi encourages a sense of mindfulness and harmony with nature.
Yomi: Yomi is the Japanese term for the underworld or the realm of the dead in mythology. It is often depicted as a dark, desolate place where souls go after death, reflecting ancient beliefs about the afterlife in Japanese culture. Yomi is intricately connected to Shinto beliefs, emphasizing the cyclical nature of life and death, as well as the reverence for ancestors that is central to both Shinto and Japanese mythology.