Japanese mythology, which includes a lot of sacred knowledge, beliefs, traditions of Shintoism and Buddhism, is at the same time interesting and incomprehensible to many. The pantheon features great amount deities who perform their functions. There are a considerable number of demons that people believe in.

Pantheon of Japanese Gods

The myths of this Asian country are based on Shintoism - the “way of the gods”, which appeared in ancient times and defines the exact date It's simply impossible. The mythology of Japan is peculiar and unique. People worshiped various spiritual entities of nature, places and even inanimate objects. Gods could be evil and good. It is worth noting that their names are often complex and sometimes too lengthy.

Japanese sun goddess

The goddess Amaterasu Omikami is responsible for the heavenly body and in translation her name is called “the great goddess who illuminates the heavens.” According to beliefs, the sun goddess in Japan is the ancestor of the great imperial family.

1. It is believed that Amaterasu taught the Japanese the rules and secrets of the technology of growing rice and producing silk through the use of a loom.
2. According to legend, it appeared from drops of water when one of the great gods was washing in a reservoir.
3. Japanese mythology says that she had a brother, Susanoo, with whom she married, but he wanted to go to world of the dead to his mother, so he began to destroy the human world so that other gods would kill him. Amaterasu was tired of her husband’s behavior and hid in a cave, cutting off all contacts with the world. The gods, by cunning, managed to lure her out of her shelter and return her to heaven.

Japanese goddess of mercy

One of the main goddesses of the Japanese pantheon is Guanyin, who is also called the “Buddhist Madonna.” Believers considered her a beloved mother and divine mediator, who was not alien to the daily affairs of ordinary people. Other Japanese goddesses did not have such great importance in ancient times.

1. Guanyin is revered as a compassionate savior and goddess of mercy. Its altars were placed not only in temples, but also in houses and roadside temples.
2. According to existing legends, the goddess wanted to enter the kingdom of heaven, but she stopped at the very threshold, hearing the cry of people living on earth.
3. Japanese goddess Charity is considered the patroness of women, sailors, merchants and artisans. Representatives of the fair sex who wanted to get pregnant also sought her help.
4. Guanyin is often depicted with many eyes and hands, representing her desire to help other people.

Japanese god of death

Behind other world answers Emma, ​​who is not only the ruler god, but also the judge of the dead, who rules hell (in Japanese mythology– jigoku).

1. Under the leadership of the god of death there is a whole army of spirits that performs many tasks, for example, they take the souls of the dead after death.
2. He is portrayed as a large man with a red face, bulging eyes and a beard. The God of Death in Japan is dressed in traditional Japanese clothing, and on his head is a crown with the hieroglyph for “king”.
3. In modern Japan, Emma is the hero of horror stories told to children.

Japanese God of War

The famous warlike patron god Hachiman is not a fictional character, since he was copied from the real Japanese warrior Oji, who ruled the country. For his good deeds, loyalty to the Japanese people and love of battle, it was decided to rank him among the divine pantheon.

1. There are several options for how the Japanese gods looked, so Hachiman was portrayed as an elderly blacksmith or, conversely, as a child who provided all kinds of help to people.
2. He is considered the patron saint of samurai, which is why he is called the god of bow and arrow. Its task is to protect people from various life misfortunes and war.
3. According to one legend, Hachiman represents the fusion of three divine beings. It also says that he was the patron of the imperial family, so ruler Oji is considered his prototype.

Japanese god of thunder

Raijin is considered the patron of lightning and thunder in mythology. In most legends he is represented together with the god of the wind. He is depicted surrounded by drums, which he beats to create thunder. In some sources he is represented as a child or a snake. Japanese god Raijin is also responsible for rain. He is considered the Japanese equivalent of a Western demon or devil.

Japanese god of fire

Kagutsuchi is considered responsible for the fire in the pantheon. According to legends, when he was born, he burned his mother with his flame and she died. His father, in despair, cut off his head, and then divided the remains into eight equal parts, from which volcanoes later appeared. From his blood came the other gods of Japan.

1. In Japanese mythology, Kagutsuchi was held in special esteem and people worshiped him as the patron of fire and blacksmithing.
2. People were afraid of the wrath of the god of fire, so they constantly prayed to him and brought various gifts, believing that he would protect their houses from fires.
3. In Japan, many people still follow the tradition of celebrating the Hi-matsuri holiday at the beginning of the year. On this day, it is necessary to bring into the house a torch lit from sacred fire in the temple.

Japanese wind god

Fujin is considered one of the oldest Shinto deities who inhabited the earth before the advent of humanity. For those who are interested in which god in Japan was responsible for the wind, and what he looked like, it is worth knowing that he was often represented as a muscular man who constantly carried on his shoulders a huge bag filled with a huge number of winds, and they walk on the ground when he opens it.

1. In the mythology of Japan there is a legend that Fujin first released the winds at the dawn of the world to dispel the fogs and the sun could illuminate the earth and give life.
2. Originally in Japanese mythology, Fujin and his friend the thunder god were among the forces of evil that opposed the Buddha. As a result of the battle, they were captured and then repented and began to serve good.
3. The wind god has only four fingers on his hands, which symbolize the directions of light. He has only two toes on his feet, meaning heaven and earth.

Japanese god of water

Susanoo, who was already mentioned earlier, was responsible for the water domain. He appeared from drops of water, and is the brother of Amaterasu. He did not want to rule the seas and decided to go into the world of the dead to his mother, but in order to leave a mark on himself, he invited his sister to give birth to children. After this, the Japanese god of the sea did many terrible things on earth, for example, he destroyed canals in the fields, desecrated sacred chambers, and so on. For his deeds, he was expelled from the high sky by the other gods.

Japanese god of luck

The list of the seven gods of happiness includes Ebisu, who is responsible for good luck. He is also considered the patron saint of fishing and labor, and also the guardian of the health of young children.

1. The mythology of Ancient Japan contains many myths and one of them tells that Ebisu was born without bones because his mother did not observe the wedding ritual. At birth he was named Hirako. When he was not yet three years old, he was carried out to sea and after some time washed up on the shores of Hokkaido, where he grew bones for himself and turned into a god.
2. For his benevolence, the Japanese nicknamed him “the laughing god.” A festival is held in his honor every year.
3. In most sources, he is presented wearing a tall hat, holding a fishing rod and a large fish in his hands.

Japanese Moon God

The ruler of the night and the earth's satellite is considered to be Tsukiyemi, who in mythology is sometimes represented as a female deity. He is believed to have the power to control the ebb and flow of the tides.

1. The myths of Ancient Japan explain the process of the appearance of this deity in different ways. There is a version that he appeared along with Amaterasu and Susanoo during the ablution of Izanagi. According to other information, he appeared from a mirror made of white copper, which in right hand held by the majestic god.
2. Legends say that the Moon God and the Sun Goddess lived together, but one day the sister drove her brother away and told him to stay away. Because of this, the two celestial bodies cannot meet, since the Moon shines at night. And the sun during the day.
3. There are several temples dedicated to Tsukiyemi.

Gods of happiness in Japan

In the mythology of this Asian country, there are as many as seven gods of happiness, who are responsible for different areas that are important to people. They are often represented in the form of small figures that float along the river. Ancient Japanese gods of happiness have connections with the beliefs of China and India:

1. Ebisu- This is the only god who is of Japanese origin. It was described above.
2. Hotei- God of good nature and compassion. Many turn to him to fulfill their cherished desire. He is portrayed as an old man with a huge belly.
3. Daikoku- the deity of wealth who helps people fulfill their desires. He is also considered the protector of ordinary peasants. He is presented with a hammer and a bag of rice.
4. Fukurokuju- god of wisdom and longevity. He stands out among other deities because of his overly elongated head.
5. Bezaiten- the goddess of luck who patronizes art, wisdom and learning. Japanese mythology represents her as a beautiful girl, and in her hands she holds the national Japanese instrument - the biwa.
6. Dzyurozin- the god of longevity and he is considered a hermit who is constantly in search of the elixir of immortality. They imagine him as an old man with a staff and an animal.
7. Bishamon- God of prosperity and material wealth. He is considered the patron saint of warriors, lawyers and doctors. He is depicted in armor and with a spear.

Japanese mythology - demons

It has already been mentioned that the mythology of this country is unique and multifaceted. There are dark forces in it and many Japanese demons played an important role in the life of ancient people, but in modern world some representatives dark forces Both children and adults are afraid. Among the most famous and interesting are:

Japan is an amazing country with great history and rich culture. The development of Japanese culture was greatly influenced by the fact that the country was isolated for a long time, i.e. its development proceeded independently of other countries, which is why Japanese culture is so unique and individual. Scientists are still of particular interest to Japanese gods and demons, as well as the spirits of Japanese culture.

Japanese mythology is closely connected with the cult of the emperor. It is believed that the emperor's family is directly related to the descendants of the first gods.

Along with mythology, other types of arts also actively developed in Japan:

1. 1) folklore;
2. 2) sculpture;
3. 3) painting;
4. 4) literature;
5. 5) theater;
6. 6) later cinema.

Japanese mythology

Japanese mythology has a huge number of deities and demons that have long and complex names.

Japanese mythology, demons and deities have unusual story. The mythology of ancient Japan has been preserved in the form of literary monuments:

1. 2. "Nihongi";
2. 3. "Kogoshui";
3. 4. "Kyujihongi";

Japanese mythology is based on Buddhist and Shinto principles. Japanese gods and demons are very interesting; there are a huge number of myths and legends about them, which people from all over the world read with interest. Mythological stories are repeatedly staged on stage; such performances, as a rule, attract big number spectators.

As in many other mythologies, the main god in Japanese mythology is the Sun Goddess, who is called Amaterasu. The name of this goddess is translated as “majestic, making the heavens shine.” According to legend, the Sun goddess was born of the god Ilzangi from the left eye, and from the right eye the Moon god, who in Japanese mythology is called Tsukiyose.

God Pit- God the afterlife, in whose hands is the fate of all the dead. God Yama decides which path a person who enters his kingdom will take: either through the mountains or into heaven. The god of thunder and lightning in Japanese mythology is called Raijin. As a rule, he is depicted surrounded by special drums, with the help of which he makes thunder. The Japanese thunder god is an alternative to Western demons.

The god of the wind is called Fujin, he is depicted as strong with a huge bag in which the wind is stored.

Japanese demons

According to legend, Japanese demons are the souls of the dead who have not found peace. Their goal is to disrupt the normal course of life. Main feature Demons are considered to be their transformation from one phenomenon or object to another.

One of the famous demons of Japanese mythology is considered daemon or the opposite of Santa Claus. On New Year's Eve, the demon appeared on the streets and asked parents if their children had behaved well.

Ama-no-zaku — ancient demon, personifying stubbornness and vice. He reads people's thoughts and makes sure that a person acts differently, and not as he intended.

But in Japanese mythology there are also harmless demons and spirits that will never harm a person. Such spirits include Ame-furi-kozo- the spirit of rain who loves to play in puddles and splash.

Harmless too Azuki-arai, who appears in the form of an old man or woman washing beans in rivers.

Traditionally, on February 3 of each year, a holiday is held in Japan during which spirits and demons are exorcised.

Tattoos depicting deities and demons have always been very popular in Japan. Many of them play a protective function: they protect a person from the evil eye, diseases, failures in love, financial difficulties. Also, many gods and demons of Japanese mythology often become theater actors. A large number of plays in Japan are written on mythological subjects.

Video: The garden where the gods of Japan live

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Ajisikitaka-hikone no kami (Youth-High God of Plows)- son of the god Oo-kuninushi and the goddess Takiri-bime.

Amaterasu oo-mi-kami(Sun Goddess). She was also known as "The Great Sacred Goddess Shining in the Sky" is the eldest daughter of the god Izanagi, the Sun Goddess, according to Japanese mythology - the ancestor of the dynasty of Japanese emperors.

Ame-no-hohi-no kami(Heavenly Rice Ear God) is a god born of Susanoo.

Amida(Sanskrit: Amitabha) - the ruler of the Western Paradise, who opens the gates of salvation to believers. The most revered deity in some Buddhist sects.

Ame-no-wakahiko(Heavenly Young Youth) - the son of the god Amatsukunitama no kami, the Heavenly God-Spirit of the Country.

Ashinazuchi(Elder Stroking Feet) - god, father of Kusinadahime, wife of Susanoo.

Bimbogami- god of poverty.

Bishamon-ten- one of the seven gods of happiness. The guardian of the northern direction in the Buddhist model of the world is depicted in the guise of a warrior dressed in samurai armor.

Buddha- Indian prince Siddhartha from the Shakya family (Sakyas), according to Buddhists, who achieved enlightenment (i.e., became Buddha - enlightened) after persistently searching for ways to liberate himself from the suffering that he experienced while in the real earthly world.

Benzai-ten- one of the seven gods of happiness. Goddess of music, eloquence, wealth of wisdom and water. She is depicted with a biwa in her hands, and sometimes with a coiled snake in a high hairstyle, which is associated with the ancient cult of the White Snake - the mistress of river waters.

Eight Ugly Women of Yomi Country- eight monsters in female form.

Daikoku-ten- revered as one of the seven gods of happiness - the most popular Shinto deities. God of wealth and luck. He is usually depicted as a very fat man with a large belly. With one hand he supports a bag of rice thrown over his shoulder, and with the other he holds a magic mallet, which allows him not only to break grains of rice, but also to work miracles.

Daruma- Buddhist deity. Depicted as a toy made of wood or papier-mâché. The shape resembles a watermelon (consists of a body that is not divided into parts). Most often it is painted red, and instead of eyes there are white spots. Having made a wish, they sketch one eye; if it comes true, they sketch the second.

Jizo- god, protector of people; protector of children and travelers. He also shows mercy to the souls of sinners in hell. Stone statues of him are often placed along the road.

Jimmu-tenno(ancient Japanese, “ruler Jimmu”) is the mythological ruler of Japan, whose accession to the throne is officially considered the beginning of the creation of the Japanese state (660 BC).

Jurojin- one of the seven gods of happiness. God of longevity. Depicted as an old man with a gray beard.

Iwanaga-hime(Maiden of the Longevity of the Rocks) - the elder sister of the god Ninigi, the Youth God of Abundance of Rice Ears.

Izanagi and Izanami(God Drawing to Himself and Goddess Drawing to Himself) - the first people and the first Shinto gods. Brother and sister, husband and wife. They gave birth to everything living and existing. Amaterasu, Susanoo and Tsukiyumi are children born from the head of the god Izanagi after the departure of the goddess Izanami to the Land of Darkness.

Inari- a Shinto deity, initially the patron of agriculture, later - a deity who brings good luck in crafts and trade. The cult of the fox is associated with the god Inari, which was considered his messenger or even incarnation.

Indra- Buddhist deity - the lord of the Tori sky, the second celestial world in the “sphere of desires.”

Kagutsuchi no kami(God-Spirit of Fire) - A fire deity born of Izanami and causing her death.

Kamuyamato Iwarebiko no Mikoto(Youth God Iware of Divine Yamato) - This deity is also known as "Emperor Jimmu" - the legendary first emperor of Japan.

Kannon- goddess of mercy or compassion. In Japan it has other names and is depicted depending on the name. For example: Thousand-armed Kannon, Merciful Kannon, Eleven-faced Kannon, etc. Deity of the Buddhist pantheon.

Kishibojin- one of the female Buddhist deities who had many children.

Kojin- deity of the kitchen. Worn dolls are offered to this deity.

Kompira- Shinto shrine in Kagawa Prefecture (Shikoku Island). The temple was founded in the 11th century and originally belonged to the Buddhist-Shinto deity Kompira, the generous patron of fishermen and sailors.

Ko-no-hana-no-sakuya-bime(Maiden of Flowers Blossoming on Trees) - wife of the god Ninigi, the Youth God of Abundance of Rice Ears.

Kuni no tokotachi no kami(God Eternally Established on Earth) is one of the first deities to appear on Takama no hara (Plain of High Heaven).

Kushinada-hime(Crest Maiden from Inad) - goddess, wife of Susanoo.

Monju- a student of Shakyamuni (Buddha), known for his wisdom. Shown by left hand Shakyamuni riding a lion.

Murakumo no Tsurugi(Heavenly Sword of Clouds) is a sword, one of the most important sacred objects, appearing in Japanese legends and myths. This is one of the three sacred imperial regalia, which, together with the magatama and the mirror, the goddess Amaterasu passes on to her descendant, the god Ninigi, upon his descent to earth.

Ninigi (Youth God of Abundance of Rice Ears)- deity, grandson of the goddess Amaterasu.

Onogorodwinter(Frozen Island) is a mythical island created by the gods Izanagi and Izanami before other islands.

Oo-yama-tsumi-no-kami(God-Spirit of the Great Mountains) is a deity born of Izanagi and Izanami.

Pindola- according to Buddhist legend, one of the closest disciples of Buddha.

Raiden- god of thunder and lightning. Usually depicted surrounded by drums (taiko) and beating them. Thus he creates thunder.

Raitaro- son of the thunder god.

Ryujin- The dragon is the god of the seas, the god of the water element, and also symbolizes supreme power.

Shio-tsuchi no kami(God-Spirit of Sea Waters, or God-Spirit of Sea Routes).

Shitateru-hime(Dev-Below Luminous Goddess) - goddess, daughter of Oo-kuninushi, God-Ruler of the Great Country, and Takiri-bime, Maiden-Goddess of the Mist.

Country of Yomi no Kuni(Country of the Yellow Spring) - the underground kingdom, the Land of the Dead.

Sumiyoshi- Shinto god, lord of the sea waves, patron of sailors. The famous Shinto shrine dedicated to his cult is located on the coast of Sumiyoshi, in Osaka.

Susanoo no Mikoto(Impetitive God-Husband) - a deity born of Izanagi from drops of water that washed his nose during purification upon his return from Yomi no kuni (Land of the Dead).

Sengen- goddess of Mount Fuji. She is also known as Ko-nohana-no-sakuya-bime (Maiden of Flowers Blossoming on Trees) - the wife of the god Ninigi, the Youth God of Abundance of Rice Ears.

Tai(Red Maiden) - translated from Japanese, the word “tai” means a type of sea bass.

The image of Shinigami is present in many animated films, manga and other Japanese media content. But everywhere Shinigami are depicted so differently that it causes confusion among many. How does this happen? Let's take a little look at the role they play in Japanese culture, including modern culture.

I think it’s no secret to anyone that the word Shinigami is written with two characters meaning 死 si “death” and 神 kami “deity”. Shinigami in Japan are considered to be those creatures that bring death to humans. Not in the sense that they mercilessly kill everyone they meet, but simply come at the moment when a person’s hour has struck. Surprisingly, Shinigami are a relatively new concept in Japanese mythology. There was no mention of them in Japanese written sources until the Edo era.

Buddhism and Shintoism

In Japanese Buddhism, the role of the god of death was played by one of the aspects of the Buddhist demon Mara - Mrityu-mara. True, in contrast to the generally accepted concept of Shinigami, Mrityu-mara possessed people and caused them to spontaneously desire to die by committing suicide. One of the ancient texts of the Yogacara school of Buddhism also contained a demon who determined the time of death of a person. Also quite a well-known character is the King of Hell - Emma (aka Yama), who was strongly associated with death and who was considered a kind of deity of death.

In Shintoism, the ancestral goddess Izanami was often considered the god of death. However, both Izanami and Emma are very different from the later concept of Shinigami, which are much more similar to everything famous image European Grim Reaper. The same applies to Buddhism, which, in principle, is characterized by an atheistic vision of the world (here it is worth saying that the presence of any share of mysticism in Buddhism varies from school to school). Thus, we see that the modern image of Shinigami as guides from life to the afterlife developed later and is weakly connected with those deities and spirits that were associated with death in Buddhism and Shinto.

The appearance of Shinigami in Japanese culture

As mentioned above, Shinigami were first mentioned in literary works Edo period, especially those that featured the theme of double suicides of loving couples. But there are very few such references. Therefore, it cannot be said that in the Edo era there was some kind of formed idea of ​​Shinigami. Rather, it was a kind of verbal personification of impending death.

For the first time, a full-fledged Shinigami appears in a 19th-century play called “Shinigami.” However, a surprise awaits us here. This play was an adaptation of the Brothers Grimm fairy tale "Death in the Godfathers". And all subsequent appearances of Shinigami in literature are directly based on the image from this play. This is how it turns out that Shinigami is a very high-quality Japanese adaptation of the European Death.

Modern Shinigami

Over time, the Shinigami turned from one entity into a whole race of anthropomorphic guides to man in afterlife. In our era of postmodernism, they are a fairly popular element of Japanese popular culture. Thanks to the pronounced syncretic Japanese religion and spiritualism, in different types of Shinigami the features of Buddhist, Shinto and even Taoist deities associated with death are intertwined in different ways. For example, the idea of ​​a society of Shinigami and divine beings, in which there is strong social stratification and a thriving bureaucracy, is characteristic of Chinese Buddhism, reflecting the bureaucratic system of the Han Dynasty in real world. We can see such Shinigami in such anime and manga as Bleach, Descendants of Darkness, YuYu Hakusho.

Since the presence of a Shinigami next to every dying person in the world - and this, to put it mildly, is not a small thing - would require the authors to somehow explain how all the Shinigami manage to control this process, they act simpler and explain that the Shinigami are present only when special cases death, leaving everything else to the will of the universe. But you wouldn’t even recommend interfering in the progress of a Shinigami’s work. worst enemy. This can be fatal.

Shinigami are sometimes depicted as goblin-like and skeletal figures who cause accidents and sudden deaths, however, in modern times popular culture They prefer to portray Shinigami as much more similar to Western vampires. As a rule, these are immortal, attractive young girls and boys with a different set of superpowers. They are engaged in bringing death to maintain their existence, or in order to peacefully escort the souls of the deceased into the afterlife, and also kill various demons and ghosts that upset the balance of life and death. There are a huge number of options.

Sometimes Shinigami act as a counterweight to the angels. Also, do not confuse "Shinigami" with "Shikigami". We will tell you more about them.

Examples in anime and manga

Bleach. Perhaps one of the most famous examples of Shinigami society. The death gods from Bleach spend more time slaughtering hordes of all sorts of demonic entities and fighting villains than working as soul guides. Escorting the souls of the dead to the afterlife is the job of the lowest-ranking Shinigami, while the more powerful Shinigami are engaged in protecting the world from various supernatural threats and administering the work of ordinary Shinigami.

Death Note. The second most famous image of Shinigami in popular culture. The Shinigami from Death Note come in a wide variety of appearances. For example, Ryuk resembles a monster-like clown, while Rem and Sido look more like mummies. They all have wings that allow them to fly, are invulnerable to all human weapons, and can also pass through objects. They are invisible to normal people unless they touch the Shinigami's Death Note. They maintain their existence by recording people's names in the Death Note, after which the person dies, and his remaining years of life go to the Shinigami. Despite their strength, they are a very lazy community and spend their time playing cards. Ryuk dropped his Death Note into the human world just because he was bored to death.

Soul Eater. In this story, Shinigami is a god-like being in a physical body who lives in the City of Death, and the goal of his life is to protect humanity from the oppression of witches, evil supernatural entities and corrupt people. For this purpose, he establishes the Shinigami Academy for people who are then sent to eliminate potential threats to humanity. Shinigami-sama, as everyone calls him, has a son named Kid or Death the Younger, who is also called Shinigami.

InuYasha. Here, the blade of one of the characters called Tenseiga can kill goblin-like Shinigami that appear near recently deceased people.

Murder Princess. In the manga Murder Princess, a Shinigami character with a goblin-like appearance appears. But even though he is the god of death, he works for the main character. At the very beginning of the story, when she sees her own body, she thinks that she has died and asks the Shinigami to take her to the afterlife.

In addition to this, Shinigami also appear in:

Risky Safety

Ballad Of A Shinigami

Descendants of Darkness

Full Moon o Sagashite

Kyouran Kazoku Nikki

YuYu Hakusho

Black Butler

Dakara Boku wa, H ga Dekinai.

Virgin Ripper

Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu

14 0

Japanese spirits and demons
(Micro Encyclopedia)

There is a custom in Japan: when you start doing a difficult task (or ask the gods for a miracle), you buy a figurine Darumas and you paint over one eye, and when you finish the job (or get what you asked for) - the second eye.
Satori. Literally it translates as "Enlightenment". Satori are depicted as people of average height, with very hairy skin and piercing eyes. Satori live in remote mountains like animals, hunting small animals and not meeting people. According to legend, Taoists become such when they have achieved a complete understanding of Tao and Enlightenment. They can read the thoughts of their interlocutor and predict his every move. People sometimes go crazy over this.
They. Large evil fanged and horned humanoid demons living in Hell (Jigoku). Very strong and difficult to kill, severed body parts grow back in place. In battle they use an iron club with spikes (kanabo). They wear a loincloth made of tiger skin. Despite his appearance, very cunning and smart, can turn into people. They love human meat. It is believed that people who do not control their anger can turn into oni. This especially applies to women. Sometimes they are kind to people and serve as their protectors.
The game of tag is called "onigokko" ("oni game") in Japan. The tag player is called "they".
Bakemono. Small, ugly demonic creatures that live in dark mountain caves near human settlements, which they like to plunder. By themselves they are very weak, so they always attack a large number. Their most dangerous weapon is their long and strong teeth. They are especially afraid of Buddhist temples.
Bakemono. Eternally hungry demons inhabit one of the Buddhist worlds - Gakido. Those who, during their life on Earth, overeat or threw away completely edible food are reborn in them. The gaki's hunger is insatiable, but they cannot die from it. They eat anything, even their children, but they cannot get enough. Sometimes they end up in the Human World, and then they become cannibals. They are portrayed as skin-and-bones people.
Asuras. Eternally warring demons inhabit one of the Buddhist worlds - Syura-Kai. They are reborn as those who desire power and superiority over others. Initially, asuras (singular number - asura) are demons of Indian folklore who rebelled against the will of the gods. They are depicted as powerful multi-armed demon warriors.
Buso. Spirits that eat human flesh. They arise from people who died of hunger. They prowl the dark night streets in search of their victims. They are practically devoid of intelligence, able to think only about food. They look like corpses beginning to decompose.
Zashiki-Warashi. These are good house spirits that settle in houses and protect its inhabitants, bringing prosperity to them and the house. It is unknown how zashiki-warashi choose their homes. If they leave the house, the house becomes desolate. They are usually shown to people as small children (usually girls) with their hair in a bun and wearing a kimono. Zashiki-warashi prefer older houses and never live in offices. You need to treat them like little children (politely and kindly), and they behave like children - they can sometimes play some kind of prank.
Shikigami. Spirits summoned by a magician, an expert on Onmyo-do. They usually appear as small oni, but can take the forms of birds and animals. Many shikigami can inhabit the bodies of animals and control them, and the shikigami of the most powerful magicians can inhabit people. Controlling shikigami is very difficult and dangerous, as they can break out of the magician’s control and attack him. An expert on Onmyo-do can direct the power of other people's shikigami against their master.
Snow people (Yama-uba). Mountain spirits. They appear in the form of creatures in torn kimonos and are generally very unkempt. They lure travelers high into the mountains and eat their flesh. They have excellent hearing and sense of smell. They are experts in black magic and poisons.
Shojo. Demons of the depths. Large creatures with red hair, green skin and fins on their arms and legs. They cannot stay on land for long without sea ​​water. They love to sink fishing boats and drag sailors to the bottom. In ancient times, a bounty was placed on the head of a shojo in coastal cities.
Raccoon dogs (Tanuki). For the Japanese, tanuki are popular heroes of children's songs, fairy tales and legends, not particularly smart, restless creatures who unsuccessfully try to play tricks on people. It is believed that by placing leaves on their heads, tanuki can transform into anyone they want. The Japanese build temples and worship some of the outstanding legendary tanuki as gods. Tanuki genitals are a traditional symbol of good luck, they are considered to be 8 tatami - 12 square meters in area. meters. Sculptures of tanuki with huge genitals and a bottle of sake in their paw can often be found in Japan.
Foxes (Kitsune). They are considered smart, cunning creatures that can transform into people, like tanuki. They obey Inari, the goddess of cereal plants. In Japan, there are Chinese legends about foxes turning into beautiful girls and seducing young men. Like tanuki, foxes have statues, especially at Inari shrines.
Cats (Neko). Like tanuki and foxes, cats are believed to be able to transform into people. They are usually considered good creatures who help people. They are often magical assistants to heroes in myths and legends. Like foxes, cat girls can be very dangerous. In human form they demonstrate superhuman flexibility, agility and cunning. Preserves the cat's body coloring.
In ancient times, a cat settled in an old temple that no one entered. She began to go out onto the road and sit on her hind legs and raise her front leg, as if inviting people to the temple. Having learned about such a diva, crowds flocked to this temple. Since then, statues of cats with their front paw raised are considered to bring good luck and are often placed in front of temples and in homes.
Dogs (Inu). Dogs are generally worshiped as guardians and protectors. Koma Inu statues (" Korean dogs") - two dogs opposite each other, the left one's mouth is closed, the right one is open - often placed in temples as protection from evil forces. It is also believed that dogs give birth without pain, so pregnant women certain days They bring sacrifices to the dog statues and pray for a successful birth.
Sometimes they can turn into very strong and tall men, devoted to their friends, excellent warriors, but somewhat offended in mind, lacking a vivid imagination and easily falling into anger.
Monkeys (Saru). When they transform into humans, the monkeys look like older people, very smart and knowledgeable, but with somewhat strange behavior. They love big companies; in some legends they even saved people just to communicate with them. They get angry easily, but quickly move away.
Cranes (Tsuru). Very rarely they turn into people; in human form they are very kind, sweet, beautiful creatures with an all-understanding look. They often take the form of wandering monks and travel in search of those in need of their help. They hate violence.
Rats (Nezumi). In human form - little nasty people without any moral principles, with an excellent sense of smell and vision. They become spies and murderers.
Spiders (Kumo). Very rare creatures. In their normal form they look like huge spiders, the size of a person, with glowing red eyes and sharp stings on their paws. In human form - beautiful women with cold beauty, luring men into a trap and devouring them.
Carps (Koi). Carp is considered a symbol of masculine strength, as it can jump high out of the water and swim against the current. They are also often bred in ponds as ornamental fish. Flags with images of carps (koinobori) are hung on Children's Day - May 5. Sometimes several flags are hung different colors: black - in honor of the father, red - in honor of the mother, and blue - according to the number of children.
Dragons (Ryu). The strongest and most powerful creatures on Earth, after the gods. Very beautiful creatures, endowed with great knowledge and wisdom. They symbolize wealth, water and wisdom. Unlike European dragons, their bodies are long and thin, they lack wings, and their head resembles that of a horse with a huge mustache and no ears, with two horns. Dragons love to play with clouds and cause rainstorms and hurricanes. They are famous for their wealth and generosity. Dragons love pearls, and will do anything for a rare pearl.
They say that there is a huge waterfall high in the mountains. A carp that can get there by jumping from river to river becomes a dragon.
Kappa. Water spirits living in rivers and lakes. They are similar to turtles, with a shell, a flat beak and green skin, and are as tall as a 10-year-old child. Kappa are very fond of sumo wrestling and force their victims to fight them. They also love cucumbers very much. If you deprive kappa of the water they carry on the top of their heads, they quickly die. The best way to do this is to bow to the kappa. His politeness will prevail, he too will bow, and the water will pour out. Kappa protect water from pollution and can drag rivers passing by underwater and drown them. Sometimes they feed on the blood of people and animals, sucking it through the anus.
Tengu. Humanoid creatures with long red noses and sometimes wings - a cross between a man and a stork. They often dress like yamabushi. They are considered the spirits of mountains and usually live near them. Sometimes they wear a fan that causes terrible hurricanes. They can fly. It is said that the tengu do not want people to live in peace, so they try to control the history of people and organize wars. Very touchy, but wonderful warriors. According to legend, the great commander and hero Minamoto no Yoshitsune studied the art of war from the tengu.
Dwarves (Korobokuru). They live in the jungle, far from people. A race of hunters and gatherers. About one and a half meters tall, with long arms and crooked legs. Always unkempt beards and hair, hard rough skin. Mutual hostility with people.
Shikome. A warlike race of creatures similar to Western goblins. Bloodthirsty sadists, slightly taller than humans and much stronger, with developed muscles. Sharp teeth and burning eyes. They do nothing else but wars. They often set up ambushes in the mountains.
Mermaids (Ningyo). Mysterious sea creatures. They are believed to be immortal. A person who eats mermaid meat can live a very long life, in fact, become immortal himself. There is a popular legend about the girl Yaao-hime, whose father gave mermaid meat to taste. She lived after this for 800 years, maintaining the appearance of a 15-year-old girl. A temple was built in her honor.
Shachihoko. A sea monster with the head of a tiger and the body of a fish covered with poisonous spines. To walk on the ground, it can transform into a tiger. They usually swim around the whale's head, ensuring that the whale does not violate the Law of the Sea - "the whale cannot eat big fish"If a whale violates this law, shachihoko climb into its mouth and sting it to death. In the Middle Ages, shachihoko statues were often placed in Japanese castles, just as gargoyle statues were in Europe.
Ghosts (O-bake). Unpleasant creatures that look like clumps of fog. They love to scare people by taking on various nightmarish forms and live in hollow trees and other dark places.
Ghosts (Yurei and Onryo). The souls of the dead and lost, finding no peace for themselves. The manifestations are similar to o-bake, but can be calmed. Yurei are the souls of the dead, who did not realize that they had died, and therefore appear at the place of death. Onryo are the souls of the unjustly offended, pursuing their offenders.
Baku. Good ghost eating bad dreams. You can call him by writing his name on a piece of paper and putting it under your pillow. Depicted as similar to the black-backed tapir (the black-backed tapir is a large South Asian equid mammal with a small trunk, its closest relatives are horses and rhinoceroses).
Konaki Jiji. Literally it translates to “an old man crying like a child.” A monster who can control his weight. It usually takes the form of a baby with the face of an old man and lies on the road. When someone picks it up, it begins to cry and immediately increases its weight many times over, until the compassionate wanderer collapses under such a burden.
Nurikabe. A monster in the form of a large invisible wall blocking the passage. If a person is late somewhere because he walked for a long time, then they say that the nurikabe interfered with him. Sometimes they are shown to people in the form of a large stone wall with legs and small arms.
Ittan-momen. Literally it translates to “A piece of cotton fabric.” Ittan-momen is a long white flying strip of cloth that appears at night and strangles its victims by wrapping itself around the neck and head.
Hitotsume Kozo. It literally translates to "One-Eyed Guy." Bald one-eyed monsters that look like Buddhist priests. They love to scare people.
Kasa no Obake. Literally it translates to "Umbrella Ghost". Wooden umbrella with one eye and one leg. They love to scare people.
Rokurokkubi. Literally it translates to "Woman with a Long Neck." A monster woman whose neck stretches to incredible sizes at midnight. During the day everything looks fine. They love to drink oil from lanterns and scare people.
Goddess Amaterasu. Amaterasu o-mikami - "Great goddess who illuminates the earth", goddess of the Sun. Considered the sacred ancestor of the Japanese emperors (great-great-grandmother of the first Emperor Jimmu) and the supreme deity of Shinto. Probably, it was originally revered as a male being "Amateru mitama" - "Spirit shining in the sky." Myths about her are the basis of Japanese mythology, reflected in the most ancient chronicles (7th century) - “Kojiki” and “Nihon Shoki”. Its main shrine, "Ise Jingu", was founded at the very beginning of the country's history in Ise Province. The High Priestess of the Amaterasu cult is always one of the emperor's daughters.
God Susanoo no Mikoto. God of hurricanes, the Underworld, waters, agriculture and disease. His name translates as "Impetuous fellow." Younger brother of the goddess Amaterasu. For a quarrel with his sister and other family members, he was exiled to Earth from Kingdom of Heaven(which is called Takamagahara) and performed many feats here, in particular, he killed the eight-headed dragon Yamato no Orochi, and from his tail he got three symbols of imperial power - the Kusanagi sword, a mirror and jasper. Then, in order to reconcile with his sister, he gave her these regalia. Subsequently he began to rule the Underground Kingdom. His main shrine is located in Izumo Province.
God Tsukiyoshi. Moon God younger brother goddess Amaterasu. After he killed the goddess of food and crops Uke-mochi for disrespect, Amaterasu did not want to see him again. Therefore, the Sun and Moon never meet in the sky.
Izanami and Izanagi. The first people and, at the same time, the first kami. Brother and sister, husband and wife. They gave birth to everything living and existing. Amaterasu, Susanoo-no-Mikoto and Tsukiyoshi are children born from the head of the god Izanagi after the departure of the goddess Izanami to the Underworld and their quarrel. Now Izanami is revered as the goddess of death.
King Emma. The Sanskrit name is Yama. The god of the underworld, who decides the fate of all creatures after their death. The path to his kingdom lies either “through the mountains” or “up to the heavens.” Under his command are armies of spirits, one of whose tasks is to come for people after death.
God Raijin. God of thunder and lightning. Usually depicted surrounded by drums (taiko) and beating them. Thus he creates thunder. Sometimes he is also depicted in the form of a child or a snake. Besides thunder, Raijin is also responsible for rain.
God Fujin. God of the wind. Usually depicted with a large bag in which he carries hurricanes.
God Suijin. God of water. Typically depicted as a snake, eel, kappa, or water spirit. Since water is considered female symbol, women have always played a major role in the veneration of Suijin.
God Tenjin. God of learning. Originally revered as a sky god, but is now revered as the spirit of a scholar named Sugawara Michizane (845-943). Due to the fault of court intriguers, he fell out of favor and was removed from the palace. In exile, he continued to write poetry in which he asserted his innocence. After his death, his angry spirit was considered responsible for a number of misfortunes and disasters. To calm the raging kami, Sugawara was posthumously forgiven, promoted to court rank and deified. Tejin is especially revered at the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine in Fukuoka Prefecture, as well as at its temples throughout Japan.
God Toshigami. God of the year. In some places he is also revered as the god of the harvest and agriculture in general. Toshigami can take the form of an old man and an old woman. Toshigami prayers are offered on New Year's Eve.
God Hachiman. God of military affairs. The deified Emperor Ojin is revered under this name. Hachiman is especially revered at the Usa Nachimangu Shrine in Oita Prefecture, as well as at his own shrines throughout Japan.
Goddess Inari. Goddess of abundance, rice and cereals in general. Often worshiped in the form of a fox. Inari is especially revered at the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, as well as at his own shrines throughout Japan. Sometimes Inari is also revered in male version, in the guise of an old man.
Seven Gods of Fortune (Shifuku-jin). Seven divine beings who bring good luck. Their names: Ebisu (patron of fishermen and traders, god of luck and hard work, depicted with a fishing rod), Daikoku (the patron saint of peasants, the god of wealth, is depicted with a wish-granting hammer and a bag of rice), Jurojin (god of longevity, depicted as an old man with a shaku staff, to which is attached a scroll of wisdom, and a crane, turtle or deer, sometimes depicted drinking sake), Fukurokujin (the god of longevity and wise deeds, depicted as an old man with a huge pointed head), Hotei (god of compassion and good nature, depicted as an old man with a big belly), Bishamon (the god of wealth and prosperity, depicted as a mighty warrior with a spear and in full samurai armor), Benten (or Benzaiten, the goddess of luck (especially at sea), wisdom, arts, love and thirst for knowledge, is depicted as a girl with a biwa - the national Japanese instrument). Sometimes they include Kishijoten, the sister of Bishamon, depicted with a diamond in her left hand. They are revered both together and individually. They travel on a wonderful Treasure Ship, filled to the brim with all sorts of riches. Their cult is very important in Everyday life Japanese.
Four Heavenly Kings (Si-Tenno). Four deities protecting the cardinal directions from the invasion of demons. They live in palaces located in the mountains at the ends of the Earth. In the east - Jigoku , in the West - Jocho , on South - Komoku and in the north - Bishamon (one of the seven gods of Luck).
Dragon Lord Rinzin. The strongest and richest of all dragons, lives in a huge crystal palace at the bottom of the ocean, filled with all sorts of riches. He is the richest creature in the world. Rinzin is revered as the god of the seas and oceans under the name Umi no Kami.
There are legends that Rindzin often visited the human world in human form, leaving behind many children - beautiful boys and girls with green eyes, long black hair and the ability to magic.
Buddha Shakyamuni. Or just Buddha. It was in this rebirth that Buddha learned the Truth and created his teaching. Buddha's Teachings the most important part Japanese culture.
Buddha Miroku. The Sanskrit name is Matreya. Future Buddha. When he descends to Earth, the End of the World will come.
Buddha Amida. The Sanskrit name is Amitabha. The main object of worship of one of the branches of northern Buddhism - Amidaism. Buddha of the Western Land. According to legend, in one of his rebirths, having comprehended the teachings of Buddha and studied many lands and countries, he made 48 vows, one of which was to build a Country for everyone who turned to him for help Pure Land(“Jodo”) in the West is the best place in the world for people to live, a kind of Buddhist Paradise. Through many new reincarnations, he fulfilled this vow. His favorite animal is the white Moon Rabbit ("Tsuki no Usagi").
Bodhisattva Kannon. Another pronunciation of the name is Kanzeon, the Sanskrit name is Avalokiteshvara ("He who listens to the sounds of the world"). The Bodhisattva of Compassion, who took an oath to save living beings everywhere, and for this received the opportunity to manifest himself in “thirty-three forms.” Amida's closest companion. In China and Japan it is revered in female form. In India and Tibet - in male form (the Dalai Lama is considered his incarnation). In Japanese Christianity in the 16th century, she was identified with the Virgin Mary. Rules the animal world. Often depicted with many hands - a symbol of the ability to save countless creatures.
Bodhisattva Jizo. He is considered the patron saint of children and those suffering in hell, as well as travelers. Small statues of Jizo are often placed by the roadside, and a piece of cloth is sometimes tied around their necks as a sign of sacrifice.
Five Buddhas of Compassion (Go-Ti). It is these five divine beings who help people most in achieving Nirvana. Their names are Yakushi, Taho, Dainichi, Asukuki and Shaka.
Twelve Guardian Gods (Juni-Jinsho). Twelve guardian gods of the great Yakushi-Nyorai - the Healer of Souls in Buddhist mythology. Their number corresponds to the number of months, and therefore those born in the corresponding month often consider themselves under the protection of the corresponding deity.
Patriarch Daruma. In Russia, Daruma is known as Bodhidharma, the creator of the Zen School and the founder of the Chinese Shaolin Monastery, the future center of martial arts. His dedication to achieving his chosen goal is proverbial. According to legend, when his eyelids began to stick together from sitting motionless in a meditation pose for a long time, he tore them out, indignant at his weakness.
Meow. The Sanskrit name is Vidya-raja ("Lord of secret knowledge"). Warriors protecting people from demons. Submit to the Buddhas. They look like huge, powerful warriors with two-handed swords made of pure light. They come from among the enlightened military leaders who have not achieved the status of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.

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