Susanoo-no-Mikoto
God of the Sea, Storms, and Fields; Slayer of Yamata-no-Orochi; Protector of the Harvest
Nature Deity, Heroic Deity, Trickster Deity
Place of Origin: Japan
Origin Date: Susanoo's myths are recorded in ancient texts such as the Kojiki (circa 712 CE) and Nihon Shoki (circa 720 CE).
Domain: Storms, seas, agriculture.
Symbols: The sword Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, often associated with his victory over Yamata no Orochi.
Attributes: Control over storms, seas, and agriculture. Known for his bravery and chaotic nature.
Epithets: Takehaya-Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Haya-Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Kamu-Susanoo-no-Mikoto.
Equivalents: There are no direct equivalents in other religions, but Susanoo shares similarities with storm gods in other mythologies, such as Thor in Norse mythology and Zeus in Greek mythology.
Religion: Shinto
Sacred Texts: Kojiki, Nihon Shoki, Izumo Fudoki.
Iconography: Susanoo is often depicted as a fierce warrior, sometimes shown slaying the dragon Yamata no Orochi..
Relations: Son of Izanagi and Izanami, brother of Amaterasu (sun goddess) and Tsukuyomi (moon god). Consort of Kushinadahime.
Description
Susanoo is a multifaceted deity known for his wild and impetuous Susanoo-no-Mikoto, often referred to simply as Susanoo, is a prominent kami in Japanese mythology. He is the younger brother of Amaterasu, the sun goddess, and Tsukuyomi, the moon god, all of whom were born from the purification ritual of their father, Izanagi. Susanoo is primarily associated with storms, the sea, and agriculture, embodying both destructive and nurturing forces.
Known for his impetuous and chaotic nature, Susanoo's actions often led to conflict, most famously with his sister Amaterasu. His unruly behavior caused him to be banished from the heavens, leading to his descent to the earthly realm of Izumo. Despite his tempestuous personality, Susanoo is also celebrated as a heroic figure.
One of his most renowned feats is the slaying of the eight-headed serpent, Yamata-no-Orochi. To save the maiden Kushinadahime, Susanoo devised a clever plan to intoxicate the serpent with sake before defeating it. From the serpent's tail, he discovered the legendary sword Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi (Grass-Cutting Sword), which he later presented to Amaterasu as a gesture of reconciliation. This sword became one of the three Imperial Regalia of Japan, symbolizing the divine authority of the emperor.
Susanoo's duality as both a chaotic trickster and a protector of humanity reflects the complex nature of kami in Shinto belief. He is venerated at numerous shrines across Japan, particularly in the Izumo region, where his legacy as a cultural and agricultural deity endures.
Narratives
The Birth of Susanoo-no-Mikoto
Susanoo-no-Mikoto, also known as Susanoo, is the son of Izanagi and Izanami, the creator deities. He was born from Izanagi's nose during his purification ritual after escaping the underworld. Susanoo's birth story highlights his divine origins and his role as the god of storms and the sea.
Susanoo and the Weaving Hall Incident
Susanoo caused chaos in the heavens, including throwing a flayed horse into Amaterasu's weaving hall, which resulted in the death of one of her attendants. This incident further strained the relationship between Susanoo and his sister Amaterasu, leading to his banishment from the heavens. This story highlights the conflict between the siblings and the consequences of Susanoo's actions.
Susanoo and the Slaying of Yamata-no-Orochi
After being banished from the heavens, Susanoo descended to Earth and encountered an elderly couple whose daughter was to be sacrificed to the eight-headed serpent Yamata-no-Orochi. Susanoo devised a plan to defeat the serpent by getting it drunk on sake and then slaying it. From the serpent's tail, he discovered the legendary sword Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, which he later presented to Amaterasu as a reconciliation gift. This story emphasizes Susanoo's bravery and his role as a hero.
Susanoo and the Creation of Izumo
Susanoo settled in the land of Izumo, where he married Kushinadahime, the daughter of the elderly couple he saved from Yamata-no-Orochi. He established his rule in Izumo and contributed to the development of the region. This story highlights Susanoo's role as a cultural hero and his influence on the land of Izumo.
Susanoo and the Rice Fields
Susanoo is credited with teaching the people of Izumo the art of rice cultivation. He introduced agricultural practices that improved the productivity of the land and ensured the prosperity of the region. This story underscores Susanoo's contribution to agriculture and his role as a benefactor of humanity.
Susanoo and the Trials of Okuninushi
Susanoo subjected his descendant Okuninushi to a series of trials to test his worthiness. Okuninushi successfully completed the trials and earned Susanoo's approval to rule the land of Izumo. This story highlights Susanoo's role as a mentor and his influence on the lineage of rulers in Izumo.
Worship Beliefs and Practices of Susanoo-no-Mikoto
Susanoo-no-Mikoto is a multifaceted deity in Japanese mythology and Shinto religion, known for his association with the sea, storms, and agriculture. He is a complex figure, embodying both chaotic and heroic qualities.
Core Beliefs
God of the Sea and Storms: Susanoo is revered as the god of the sea and storms. He is believed to have control over the weather, particularly storms and typhoons. His blessings are sought for protection from natural disasters and safe voyages.
God of Agriculture: Susanoo is also associated with agriculture and fertility. He is believed to ensure the fertility of the land and the prosperity of crops. His blessings are sought for bountiful harvests and the well-being of livestock.
Heroic Deeds: Susanoo is celebrated for his heroic deeds, particularly his defeat of the monstrous serpent Yamata no Orochi. This act of bravery and strength is a central myth in his worship and highlights his role as a protector and hero.
Attributes and Significance
Depictions: Susanoo is often depicted as a powerful and impetuous figure, sometimes shown with symbols of the sea and storms, such as waves and lightning. He is also depicted with a sword, symbolizing his role as a warrior and protector.
Symbols: Common symbols associated with Susanoo include the sword, waves, and lightning. These symbols are used in rituals and ceremonies to invoke his presence and blessings.
Cultural Hero: The stories and depictions of Susanoo are passed down through generations, maintaining their significance in Japanese culture and mythology. He embodies the qualities of strength, bravery, and the interconnectedness of the natural world.
Practices of Worship
Rituals and Ceremonies: Devotees perform various rituals and ceremonies to honor Susanoo. These include offerings of food, particularly rice and sake, and other goods to seek his favor and protection. Rituals often take place in Shinto shrines dedicated to Susanoo, such as Kumano Taisha, Susa Shrine, and Yasaka Shrine.
Sacred Sites: Temples and shrines dedicated to Susanoo can be found throughout Japan. These sites are often located in places associated with the sea and storms, such as coastal regions and mountains.
Offerings: Offerings to Susanoo typically include food, particularly rice and sake, and items related to his symbols, such as representations of swords and waves. These offerings symbolize gratitude and the desire for protection and blessings.
Festivals and Traditions
Gion Matsuri: Gion Matsuri is a major festival dedicated to Susanoo, celebrated annually in Kyoto. The festival includes prayers, rituals, and offerings to seek Susanoo's blessings for protection from natural disasters and prosperity for the coming year. It also features grand processions, traditional music, and dance.
Cultural Celebrations: Susanoo's story may be included in cultural celebrations and festivals that honor Japanese heritage and traditions. These gatherings often include music, dance, and storytelling.
Prayers: Devotees pray to Susanoo for protection, strength, and success in their endeavors. Traditional prayers often invoke his role as the god of the sea and storms and a symbol of bravery.
Susanoo's role as the god of the sea, storms, and agriculture embodies the core values and beliefs of Japanese mythology, emphasizing the importance of strength, bravery, and the interconnectedness of all life.