Izanami

Japanese Primordial Deities-eng

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Izanami is a deity in Japanese mythology, known as one of the creator gods who birthed the islands of Japan and numerous other deities. She is paired with her brother and husband, Izanagi, and their union is central to the Shinto creation myths. Izanami's story is primarily recorded in the ancient Japanese texts, the Kojiki and the Nihon Shoki, which are crucial sources for understanding early Japanese religion and mythology.

Creation Myth

According to the myth, in the beginning, the universe was a chaotic mass, and the first gods summoned Izanagi and Izanami to shape the world. They were given a jeweled spear, with which they stirred the chaos, and when drops fell from the spear, they formed the islands of Japan. Izanagi and Izanami then descended to the newly formed islands and established their residence.

They began the process of creating numerous kami (gods or spirits) to inhabit the land, sea, and sky. However, the birth of the fire god, Kagutsuchi, proved fatal for Izanami, who died from the burns and went to Yomi, the underworld in Japanese mythology.

The Underworld and Aftermath

Izanagi, stricken with grief, traveled to Yomi to retrieve Izanami. However, upon seeing her decaying form, he fled in horror. Izanami, feeling betrayed, sent shikome (foul women) and later Yomotsu-shikome (warriors of the underworld) after him. Izanagi managed to escape and sealed the entrance to Yomi with a large boulder, permanently separating them. This act is said to have created the concept of death in the world.

Following his return, Izanagi performed a purification ritual, during which he birthed several other deities, including the sun goddess Amaterasu, the moon god Tsukuyomi, and the storm god Susanoo. These three would become central figures in the Shinto pantheon.

Legacy and Worship

Izanami's story is a foundational myth in Shinto religion, illustrating themes of creation, death, and the impermanence of life. She is venerated as a mother goddess and a deity of creation and death. Her narrative has influenced Japanese culture, arts, and festivals. Shrines dedicated to Izanagi and Izanami can be found throughout Japan, with the couple being worshipped as the creators of the land and its gods.

In Popular Culture

Izanami has been featured in various forms of media and popular culture, including manga, anime, and video games. These portrayals often reinterpret her mythological story in modern contexts, highlighting her significance in contemporary Japanese storytelling.