The Holy Kojiki with Yengishiki: Japan's Foundational Sacred Text
The Kojiki, also known as the "Records of Ancient Matters," stands as the oldest known document in the Japanese language and serves as a foundational sacred text of the Shinto religion. First written down in the 8th century, this ancient manuscript documents the creation of the world, the pantheon of Japanese gods, and the origins of Japan itself.
The Official Story of the Japanese People
This text represents the "official" narrative of the Japanese peoples, preserved through centuries as both a religious document and a cultural treasure. The Kojiki provides an extraordinary window into ancient Japanese mythology, offering detailed accounts of divine beings, creation myths, and the legendary founding of the Japanese nation. Its significance extends beyond religious practice, serving as a vital historical and cultural document that has shaped Japanese identity for over a millennium.
Complete with the Yengishiki Ritual Collection
This edition includes the Yengishiki, an essential compilation of Shinto rituals that complement the mythological narratives of the Kojiki. The Yengishiki contains numerous ceremonial texts, including:
- The Harvest Ritual
- The Ritual for the Wind-Gods
- The Ritual for Evil Spirits
- Additional traditional Shinto ceremonies
These ritual texts provide practical insight into ancient Shinto religious practices, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of both the mythology and the ceremonial traditions of Japan's indigenous religion.
A Beautiful Evocation of Ancient Japanese Tradition
The Kojiki transcends its role as a religious text, presenting a beautiful evocation of ancient Japanese mythology and cultural traditions. The narratives contained within illuminate the worldview of early Japanese civilization, their understanding of the divine, and their relationship with the natural and supernatural worlds. For scholars of comparative religion, Asian philosophy, and classical literature, this text provides invaluable primary source material.
Essential Reading for Multiple Disciplines
This hardcover edition serves as an indispensable resource for students and scholars of Japanese literature, religious studies, mythology, and Asian history. The English translation makes these ancient texts accessible to Western readers, allowing for cross-cultural study and appreciation of one of Asia's most significant religious and literary works. Whether approached as a sacred text, a historical document, or a work of classical literature, the Kojiki with Yengishiki offers profound insights into the foundations of Japanese culture and spirituality.
