In Japanese mythology, Amaterasu is the goddess of the sun and the supreme goddess. All emperors of Japan were believed to be her descendants. In one tale, after getting angry at her brother Susanoo, she retreated into a cave causing the world to fall into darkness. After much consideration, the gods came up with a way to lure her out.
They placed a mirror outside the cave and Uzume, goddess of the dawn, began to dance provocatively and take off her clothes. Laughter ensued and Amaterasu's curiosity got the better of her. She ventured out, caught sight of the mirror and paused to look at her reflection.
 |
| 'The Sun Goddess' - Tsukioka Yoshitoshi |
While she was looking, the gods were able to move a stone in front of the cave's entrance and prevent Amaterasu from going back in. Thus, light was returned to the world.
 |
| 'Amaterasu emerging from the cave' - Utagawa Kunisada. |
 |
| Jade Sheldon |
 |
'Deities Luring Amaterasu from a Cave' - unknown artist, Edo period.
|
 |
Shinto Cocoro
|
 |
'Sun goddess Amaterasu' - Yashima Gakutei, Edo period.
|
Posts
Comments
Post a Comment