In the previous article, we enhanced our understanding of Okuninushi, exploring his potential physical appearance and delving into the depths of his inner characteristics.
(Click here to catch up on previous vol)
Now, in this week’s installment, we shift our focus to #Izanami (Dark) no Mikoto, the primodial creator of all kami and later the ruler of Yomi.
A quick recap of what this article is about first.
Imagine if you could travel back in time to the Kamiyo era, specifically during the Kuni Yuzuri and Tenson Kourin events timeline, and come face-to-face with the major gods of Japanese mythology. How do you think they would look physically, and what would be their likely inner characteristics?
Why the Kuni Yuzuri and Tension Kourin events timeline? These are the 2 timelines where major changes had happened between the Takama ga Hara (Heavenly Plains) and Ashihara no Naka tsu Kuni (Central Land of Reed Plains, or Japan as we know now.) Read my other article about the Cosmology of the ancient Japan if you want to learn more.
In this #KojikiLostArc (delving into the possible missing arcs from the Kojiki records) article series, i will bring you to embark on a fascinating journey to reconstruct the physical appearances and inner characteristics of the major and less known kami from these eras. Additionally, we will explore their enigmatic intentions towards closely related kami, which might not have been fully documented in historical records.
Who is #Izanami (Dark) no Mikoto?
As the female counterpart to the 7th generation’s primordial creator kami, #Izanami partnered with her brother-husband Izanagi to shape the world. Their efforts birthed countless kami, scattered across the created land now known as Japan. Tragedy struck as Izanami perished while giving birth to the fire kami Katsuguchi, leading her to Yomi, the underworld. Izanagi’s attempt to rescue her ended in him fleeing from her decaying appearance. The duo’s final exchange saw #Izanami (Dark) cursing him to lose 1000 lives daily while he vowed to create 1500 new lives in return. This interaction set the foundation for the cycle of birth and death.
Drawing inspiration from the Kojiki, various literatures, mangas, and games, i have reimagine how #Izanami (Dark) might have looked and what characteristics she may have possessed during this mythical period.
Physical Appearance:
- Ebony hair cascades down, veiling half her face
- The exposed side reveals a beautiful mature women with kind expression, and bewtiching smile
- Hidden under the cover, her face has decayed and twisted, reflecting her Yomitsukami nature
- Spots emerald colored eyes
- Clad in a long black, white and red provocative kimono
- Radiates a commanding and dark aura befitting her tremendous power
Inner Characteristics:
- Drastic mood fluctuations encompass both warm benevolence and cruel malevolence
- The tragic events of her past and the betrayal she endured have left her with a profoundly tormented psyche
- Yet, she might strive to forgive herself and recapture her former kind, playful, and bold self
- These internal struggles manifest in erratic and unpredictable behavior, indicative of the turmoil within
Possible Enigmatic Intentions:
After millennia of turmoil, Dark Izanami may have undergone significant transformations. Her temperament could have mellowed as she explored the uncharted realm of Yomi, gaining new knowledge. Yet, fueled by profound grievances, she might have amassed greater powers and nurtured a thirst for revenge. Being deceased and eternal could gave her the patience to wait for the right opportunity. Another change might involve her appearance. With newfound power, she could have partially restore her once-beautiful form. However, parts of her Yomi dominion might still remain on her body. An even darker theory speculates that during Amaterasu’s 3-year seclusion, Dark Izanami could have assumed new guise, and slipped back to central land and sow chaos. Her whereabouts remain shrouded, further supported by the hypothetical notion that Susanoo wouldn’t have assumed underworld rule if Dark Izanami was still in reign.
Conclusion:
In this visual journey, we have brought to life the mythical figure of #Izanami (Dark) during the Era of the Kami. Drawing from literature, manga, and fan arts, we have reimagined her physical appearance, inner characteristics, and enigmatic intentions.
As we continue on our exploration of other major and lesser-known kami, let your imagination run wild, and join us on this enthralling adventure through the mesmerizing world of Japanese folklore and mythology.
Join me on Twitter and Medium @0x8tails as we continue unveiling the physical appearances and inner characteristics of the ancient deities.
#KojikiLostArc #JapaneseFolklore #TouriiTourism #Touriists #JapaneseKojiki
