Amaterasu

Definition

Amaterasu is the Shinto goddess of the sun and the universe, revered as one of the principal deities in Japanese mythology. She is often associated with light, fertility, and the imperial family of Japan, believed to be her descendants. Her narratives are central to the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki texts, where her emergence from a cave symbolizes the arrival of light and order into the world.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Amaterasu is said to have been born from the left eye of the creator god Izanagi, making her one of the most important figures in Shinto belief.
2. She has a brother named Susanoo, the storm god, with whom she has a tumultuous relationship, leading to her retreat into a cave and causing darkness in the world.
3. The sun goddess is often worshipped at Ise Jingu, one of Japan's most sacred Shinto shrines dedicated to her, which highlights her importance in Japanese culture.
4. Amaterasu's emergence from the cave is celebrated in various rituals, symbolizing renewal and the return of prosperity and harmony to the world.
5. In addition to being a deity of the sun, Amaterasu is also considered the protector of the Japanese imperial family, symbolizing their divine right to rule.

Review Questions

• How does Amaterasu's narrative in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki reflect key themes of creation and order in Japanese mythology?
  • Amaterasu's story in both the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki illustrates themes of creation and order through her emergence from darkness. After retreating into a cave due to conflict with her brother Susanoo, her return brings light back to the world, symbolizing renewal and stability. This narrative emphasizes her role not only as a sun goddess but also as a fundamental force for harmony in nature and society.
• Discuss the significance of Ise Jingu in relation to Amaterasu and its role in Shinto practice.
  • Ise Jingu is crucial in Shinto practice as it is dedicated to Amaterasu, serving as a major pilgrimage site for worshippers. The shrine embodies the essence of her divine presence and is believed to house her spirit. Annual rituals held at Ise Jingu celebrate her importance to agriculture, prosperity, and national identity, reflecting how integral she is to both religious practices and cultural heritage in Japan.
• Evaluate how Amaterasu's representation as a sun goddess influences modern perceptions of leadership and authority within Japanese society.
  • Amaterasu's status as a sun goddess who symbolizes light, fertility, and order significantly shapes modern perceptions of leadership in Japan. Her connection to the imperial family reinforces the idea of divine authority in governance. Furthermore, her nurturing attributes serve as a model for ideal leadership qualities such as benevolence and wisdom, influencing how contemporary leaders are viewed and expected to perform their roles within society.

Related terms

Kojiki: The Kojiki, or 'Records of Ancient Matters,' is a collection of myths and historical narratives that chronicles the origins of Japan and its deities, including Amaterasu.

Nihon Shoki: The Nihon Shoki, or 'Chronicles of Japan,' is a historical text that provides an account of Japan's history and mythology, detailing the lineage of Amaterasu and other gods.

Kami: Kami are the spirits or deities in Shinto belief, encompassing gods like Amaterasu as well as natural elements and ancestral spirits that are venerated in various rituals.