Buddhist cosmology
Oni: Japanese Demon Mythology and Folklore
Oni are some of the most enduring figures in Japanese folklore, but their meaning extends far beyond the familiar image of horned, red-skinned monsters. This encyclopedia article traces the evolution of the oni, from early spirits and symbolic forces to their roles in religion, ritual, art, and popular culture, revealing why they still fascinate readers today.
Raijin: Japanese God of Thunder and Storms
Raijin, the Japanese god of thunder, lightning, and storms, is one of the most striking figures in the nation’s religious and mythological tradition. Blending Shinto, Buddhist, and folk beliefs, this fearsome deity appears in art and stories as a symbol of divine power, natural upheaval, and enduring cultural imagination.
Difference Between Shinto Kami and Buddhist Deities in Japan
The difference between Shinto kami and Buddhist deities in Japan lies in their origins, functions, and religious meanings: kami are indigenous sacred presences tied to nature, ancestors, and place, while Buddhist figures such as Buddhas and bodhisattvas come from a continental tradition centered on enlightenment. Exploring how these beings were distinguished, blended, and reinterpreted in Japanese history reveals a complex spiritual landscape that still shapes shrine and temple culture today.
