Introduction
In ancient Japanese mythology, the Yatagarasu is a sacred three-legged crow symbolizing the sun and the messenger of the gods. Amaterasu is the sun goddess, ruling over light and life. The story of Yatagarasu and Amaterasu is a mystical and magical tale that showcases the power of courage, loyalty, and wisdom.
The Yatagarasu and Amaterasu
In the distant mythological era, Amaterasu (Amaterasu Omikami) ruled Takamagahara, controlling the radiance of the sun and bringing light and warmth to the earth. Her brother, Susanoo (Susanoo-no-Mikoto), had a tumultuous and boisterous nature, frequently causing trouble. Once, Susanoo’s reckless behavior enraged Amaterasu, prompting her to retreat into the Ama-no-Iwato cave, plunging the world into darkness.
The gods of Takamagahara were deeply concerned, for without Amaterasu’s light, the world would be engulfed in eternal darkness and cold. They decided to hold a grand feast to attract Amaterasu’s attention and coax her back into the sky. They laid out sumptuous food and performed grand songs and dances in front of the cave. Ame-no-Uzume, the goddess of mirth, performed a comical dance at the feast, making the gods laugh heartily.
At this moment, Amaterasu peeked out from behind the rock, curious about the commotion outside. Yatagarasu, a sacred black crow with three legs, carried an important mission. It flew to Amaterasu, looked at her with wise eyes, and said, “Great Amaterasu, we need your light and warmth. Without you, the world will fall into endless darkness. Please return to the sky and shine upon the earth.”
Amaterasu was deeply moved by Yatagarasu’s words but still apprehensive about Susanoo’s potential harm. Yatagarasu continued, “Amaterasu, Susanoo has been punished by the gods and has vowed not to commit such rude acts again. You are the hope of all gods and humans; only your light can dispel the darkness.”
After some hesitation, Amaterasu finally decided to leave the Ama-no-Iwato. As her light once again illuminated the earth, the world became warm and bright. The gods cheered and rejoiced, thanking Amaterasu for her return.
Yatagarasu was not just a messenger but also a loyal guardian of Amaterasu. Whenever Amaterasu patrolled the sky, Yatagarasu always accompanied her, ensuring her safety. With its keen eyes, it watched over the surroundings, detecting and neutralizing any threats.
Susanoo was exiled to the earthly realm, where he faced numerous hardships and trials. Eventually, he realized his mistakes and decided to reform. He sought Amaterasu’s forgiveness, repenting for his wrongdoings. Amaterasu saw Susanoo’s sincerity and forgave him. Susanoo then became a god protecting humans and nature, safeguarding life on earth.
The story of Yatagarasu and Amaterasu is not just a myth but a tale of courage, wisdom, and forgiveness. Yatagarasu’s loyalty and wisdom, Amaterasu’s light and compassion, and Susanoo’s repentance and growth are vividly portrayed in this story.
From then on, whenever people saw the figure of Yatagarasu, they would recall its story with Amaterasu. Yatagarasu became a symbol of light and hope, and Amaterasu’s radiance shone upon every corner, dispelling darkness and bringing warmth and life.
