Japanese gods are an integral part of the country’s culture and religion. Shintoism, Japan’s native religion, believes that everything in nature is imbued with spirits or kami. These kami are considered divine beings that can influence human life and the natural world.
There are countless deities worshipped in Japan, each with its own unique traits and stories. Some of the most well-known gods and goddesses include Amaterasu, the sun goddess and one of the most important deities in Shintoism, and Susanoo, the god of storms and the sea. Other gods and goddesses include Inari, the god of rice and fertility, and Hachiman, the god of war and protector of Japan and its people.
Japanese mythology is filled with stories of gods and goddesses that have shaped the country’s history and culture. From the creation myth of Izanami and Izanagi to the legends of the gods of the wind and thunder, Japanese mythology provides a glimpse into the beliefs and values of the Japanese people. Understanding the role of these gods and goddesses in Japanese culture is crucial to understanding the country’s rich history and traditions.
Origins of Shinto
Shinto is the indigenous religion of Japan, and its origins date back to ancient times. The religion is deeply rooted in the Japanese culture and has a rich tradition of myths and legends.
Creation Myths
According to Shinto beliefs, the universe was created by a divine couple, Izanagi and Izanami. They gave birth to the islands of Japan and many other gods and goddesses. One of their children was Amaterasu, the sun goddess, who is considered the most important deity in the Shinto pantheon.
Kojiki and Nihon Shoki
The earliest written records of Shinto myths and legends can be found in two ancient Japanese texts: the Kojiki and the Nihon Shoki. These texts were compiled in the 8th century CE and contain stories of the creation of the universe, the gods and goddesses, and the founding of Japan.
The Kojiki, also known as the “Record of Ancient Matters,” is considered the oldest surviving book in Japan. It was written in a mix of Chinese characters and phonetic script, and it contains stories of the gods and goddesses, as well as historical accounts of Japan’s early emperors.
The Nihon Shoki, also known as the “Chronicles of Japan,” is a more comprehensive history of Japan. It covers the period from the creation of the universe to the reign of Empress Suiko in the 7th century CE. The text is written entirely in Chinese characters and contains many stories of the gods and goddesses, as well as historical accounts of Japan’s early emperors.
Overall, the origins of Shinto are deeply rooted in Japanese culture and history. The myths and legends of the religion have been passed down through oral tradition and written records for centuries, and they continue to influence Japanese culture and society today.
Major Kami
The Shinto religion has countless kami or deities. However, there are a few major kami that stand out due to their importance in Japanese mythology and daily life. These deities are Amaterasu, Susanoo, Tsukuyomi, Izanagi, and Izanami.
Amaterasu
Amaterasu is the sun goddess and the most important kami in Shinto. She is believed to be the ancestor of the Japanese imperial family. According to mythology, Amaterasu was born from the left eye of the god Izanagi after he purified himself in a river. She is often depicted as a beautiful woman with long hair and a radiant aura. Her shrine, located in Ise, is one of the most sacred places in Japan.
Susanoo
Susanoo is the god of storms and the sea. He is known for his wild and unpredictable nature. According to mythology, Susanoo was born from the nose of the god Izanagi after he purified himself in a river. He is often depicted as a fierce warrior with long hair and a sword. Susanoo is also famous for slaying the eight-headed serpent Yamata no Orochi and saving a village from its wrath.
Tsukuyomi
Tsukuyomi is the god of the moon and the night. He is known for his calm and rational nature. According to mythology, Tsukuyomi was born from the right eye of the god Izanagi after he purified himself in a river. He is often depicted as a handsome man with long hair and a crescent moon on his forehead. Tsukuyomi is also famous for his tragic encounter with the goddess Amaterasu, which resulted in their separation.
Izanagi and Izanami
Izanagi and Izanami are the god and goddess of creation. They are known for their role in creating the Japanese islands and the first humans. According to mythology, Izanagi and Izanami were tasked by the gods to create the world. They used a spear to stir the ocean and created the first island, Onogoro. They then descended to the island and performed a sacred dance, which resulted in the birth of many other islands and deities. However, their union resulted in the birth of a deformed child, which led to their separation.
Rituals and Worship
Shrines
Shinto shrines are places of worship for the indigenous religion of Japan. These shrines are dedicated to various deities, spirits, and kami. The shrines are typically made of wood and have a distinctive architectural style. Visitors to the shrines typically bow and clap their hands as a sign of respect. They may also make offerings of coins, food, or sake to the kami.
Festivals
Shinto festivals, or matsuri, are held throughout the year to celebrate the changing seasons and to honor the kami. These festivals often involve parades, music, dancing, and food. The most famous festival is the Gion Matsuri, held in Kyoto in July. During this festival, large floats are paraded through the streets, and the city is filled with food stalls and street performers.
Purification Rites
Purification is an important part of Shinto worship. Visitors to shrines must purify themselves before entering. This is typically done by washing the hands and mouth at a purification fountain. Purification also plays a role in many Shinto ceremonies and rituals. For example, at a wedding, the couple may purify themselves by drinking sake before exchanging vows.
Overall, Shinto worship is a complex and deeply ingrained part of Japanese culture. The rituals and traditions associated with Shinto reflect the country’s unique history and relationship with nature.
Seven Lucky Gods
The Seven Lucky Gods, also known as Shichifukujin, are a group of deities from Japan, India, and China. The group was created in Japan in the 16th century and is considered to be a symbol of good fortune and happiness.
Ebisu
Ebisu is the only purely Japanese member of the Seven Lucky Gods. He is the god of prosperity and good fortune, particularly in commercial activities. Ebisu is often depicted as a fisherman, and he is a patron of fisheries, restaurants, and corporations in the modern world.
Daikokuten
Daikokuten is the god of wealth, commerce, and trade. He is often depicted holding a large sack of treasure and a magic mallet. Daikokuten is also associated with agriculture and is believed to bring good harvests.
Benzaiten
Benzaiten is the goddess of knowledge, art, and beauty. She is often depicted playing a biwa, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument. Benzaiten is also associated with water and is believed to bring good fortune to those who worship her.
Bishamonten
Bishamonten is the god of warriors and protectors. He is often depicted wearing armor and carrying a spear. Bishamonten is also associated with wealth and is believed to bring good fortune to those who are just and righteous.
Fukurokuju
Fukurokuju is the god of longevity, wisdom, and wealth. He is often depicted as an old man with a long beard and a tall forehead. Fukurokuju is also associated with happiness and is believed to bring good fortune to those who seek a long and fulfilling life.
Jurojin
Jurojin is the god of longevity and wisdom. He is often depicted as an old man with a long white beard and a staff. Jurojin is also associated with good health and is believed to bring good fortune to those who seek a long and healthy life.
Hotei
Hotei is the god of happiness and good fortune. He is often depicted as a jolly, overweight man with a large belly and a smiling face. Hotei is also associated with generosity and is believed to bring good fortune to those who are kind and giving.
In summary, the Seven Lucky Gods are a group of deities from Japan, India, and China who are associated with good fortune and happiness. Each god has a unique role and is believed to bring good fortune to those who worship them.
Nature Spirits and Animals
In Japanese mythology, nature spirits and animals are often revered as deities. Here are a few notable examples:
Kodama
Kodama are tree spirits that inhabit the forests of Japan. They are often depicted as small, human-like creatures with tree-like features, such as bark-like skin or leafy hair. Kodama are said to be protectors of the forest and are known to punish those who harm it. They are also believed to bring good luck to those who treat the forest with respect.
Tengu
Tengu are bird-like spirits that are often associated with mountains and forests. They are known for their long noses and red faces, and are often depicted as mischievous tricksters. However, they are also revered as protectors of the natural world and are said to possess great wisdom and martial prowess. In some stories, they are even capable of shape-shifting into human form.
Ryūjin
Ryūjin is the dragon god of the sea. He is often depicted as a large, serpentine creature with the power to control the tides and the weather. In Japanese mythology, Ryūjin is said to be the ruler of all the creatures of the sea, and is often depicted alongside his many sea-dwelling subjects. He is also believed to be a symbol of power and good fortune, and is often associated with the emperor of Japan.
Overall, nature spirits and animals play an important role in Japanese mythology, serving as protectors of the natural world and symbols of power and good fortune.
Influence on Culture
Literature
Japanese mythology has had a significant impact on literature, both in Japan and around the world. Many classic Japanese novels and poems are heavily influenced by Japanese gods and mythology. For example, the epic novel “The Tale of Genji” features many references to Shinto gods and beliefs. Furthermore, Japanese mythology has been a source of inspiration for many contemporary Japanese authors, such as Haruki Murakami.
Performing Arts
Japanese gods and mythology have also played a significant role in traditional Japanese performing arts. Noh and Kabuki are two of the most famous examples of traditional Japanese theater that incorporate elements of Japanese mythology. Many of the characters in these plays are based on Japanese gods and goddesses, and the stories often explore themes related to Japanese mythology.
Modern Media
Japanese gods and mythology have also had a significant impact on modern media, including anime, manga, and video games. Many popular anime and manga series feature characters based on Japanese gods and goddesses, and the stories often incorporate elements of Japanese mythology. Additionally, video games such as “Okami” and “Persona” have been heavily influenced by Japanese mythology, with many of the characters and storylines based on Japanese gods and goddesses.
In conclusion, Japanese gods and mythology have had a profound impact on Japanese culture, influencing literature, performing arts, and modern media. The rich and diverse world of Japanese mythology continues to inspire artists and creators around the world.