Handbook of Japanese Mythology

Michael Ashkenazi

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English

Oxford University Press
11 March 2008

Australasian & Pacific history; Religion & beliefs; Other non-Christian religions; Folklore, myths & legends

Japanese gods, too numerous to count, are known collectively as yaoyorozu-no-kamigami--the eight million. They are the cast of a vast, complex mythology that encompasses two religions, three cultures, and three millennia, one whose ancient deities are still hard at work today.

Handbook of Japanese Mythology makes it easy to travel this vast yet little-known mythological landscape. The book reveals the origins of Japan's myths in the very different realms of Buddhism, Shinto, and folklore, and explores related mythologies of the Ainu and Okinawan cultures and recent myths arising from Japan's encounters with modernization. It then offers vivid retellings of the central Shinto and Buddhist myths, plus descriptions of major historical figures, icons, rituals, and events.

For students or long-time enthusiasts, it is the ideal guide for investigating Japanese reverence for the sun, the imperial family, and the virtues of purity and loyalty. Readers will also learn why sumo wrestlers stomp before each match, how a fussy baby creates thunder, why Japan has a god for soccer, and much more.

By: Michael Ashkenazi
Imprint: Oxford University Press
Country of Publication: United States
Dimensions: Height: 155mm, Width: 231mm, Spine: 21mm
Weight: 1g
ISBN: 9780195332629
ISBN 10: 0195332628
Pages: 396
Publication Date: 11 March 2008
Audience: General/trade , College/higher education , Undergraduate , ELT Advanced , Primary
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active

Michael Ashkenazi is a professional writer and the author of numerous scholarly and encyclopedia articles on Japanese religion and culture. His published works include Matsuri: The Festivals of a Japanese Town, The Essence of Japanese Cuisine, and Sex, Sexuality, and the Anthropologist with Fran Markowitz.