Top 10 Japanese Gods and Goddesses

Japan is one of the most developed nations in the world. It is known for its hi-tech technology. The country can be crown as the tech capital of the world. But with all the technological advancements the nation hasn’t forgotten its roots. The culture and traditions of Japan are still intact. It is a perfect mixture of modernism and cultivation of old heritage & traditions. Here we have mentioned Top 10 Japanese Gods and Goddesses.

Amaterasu

Amaterasu is often regarded as the Japanese Goddess of Rising Sun and queen of heaven. The Imperial Family of Japan claims to have descended from her. The Goddess is considered as the most important deity of the Sinto religion. She is the daughter of Izanami and Izanagi. They made her the ruler of the sky. She also exiled her mischievous brother from heaven.

Tsukiyomi

Tsukuyomi is the “Moon God” according to Japanese mythology. This god is believed to be born from Izanagi when he washed his right eye. When Amaterasu (Japanese Goddess of Rising Sun and queen of heaven) got married to Tsukuyomi than sun and moon shared same sky. His violent nature and killing of Uke Mochi resulted in Tsukuyomi’s separation from his wife. It is believed that this is the reason behind the origin of day and night.

Benzaiten

She is one of the seven gods of luck. She is believed to be a form or manifestation of Goddess Saraswati (Hindu Goddess). Her connection to dragons and serpents, love for music and many other characteristics largely come from Indian goddess. With the spread of Buddhism, this goddess gained popularity across China and carried different properties before entering Japan. She is also believed to be the Goddess of music, water, wealth and time.

Kannon

Kannon is the most famous bodhisattva in Japan. In Japanese mythology, Kannon is believed to be the Goddess of compassion and mercy. She is the most worshiped bodhisattva (Buddhist figure on the path to enlightenment) across Japan. It is said that compassion and mercy is provided to the people who preach and worship her.

Ebisu  

Ebisu is also a part of the seven lucky gods. He is also referred to as the God of Fisherman. His figure is depicted as a smiling person who’s happy. He is believed to be the first child of Izanami and Izanagi. Another origin story suggests that Ebisu is the son of Okuninushi.

Susanoo

According to Japanese mythology, Susanoo is the God of Sea. He is also considered as the god of lighting, thunder and storms. The Thunder God was exiled from heaven by his sister ‘Amaterasu’. When he was exiled from heaven and landed in Izumo. Where he was married to Kushinada-hime, after saving her from a dragon.

Kagutsuchi

He is known as the God of Fire in the Japanese myths. Kagutsuchi is also hailed by blacksmiths and people who work with fire. The Fire God is associated with Earthquakes and Volcanoes. According to the myths her mother Izanami was covered in fire while giving birth to him. Just before dying she gave birth to Mizuhame (God of Water), as only Mizuhame could counter the power of fire god. Izanami also cut Kagutsuchi into 8 parts, which are depicted as 8 volcanoes across Japan.  

Izanagi

According to the Japanese mythology Izanagi  one of the creators of Japan. The divine god is also considered the founder of marriage. Izanagi also serves as an advisor to her daughter Amaterasu. It is said that in the start people only lived in heaven. With the churning of the sea, the first island ‘Japan’ came.  Izanagi was also the father of 3 of the most prominent gods of Japan.

Bishamonten

Bishamonten is the warrior god who protects the Buddhist temples and the worshippers. He’s a part of the seven gods of luck but is the only lucky god who’s associated with war. According to the Japanese myths he’s name means “Guardian of the One-Hundred Million Heavenly Gates”. He is depicted as a warrior with a spear in one hand and a pagoda in the other.

Daikokuten

He is the god of luck and fortune. In the Japanese culture, it’s believed that he brings good fortune and prosperity in the island nation. It’s also said the favours fortune seeking bold people who are willing to take risks. Daikokuten is also a part of the seven lucky gods. He is a household deity who’s images can be commonly found in households.

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