User:Immanuelle/Asuka Shrine

Immanuelle/Asuka Shrine
Religion
Deity	Kotoshironushi Ōmononushi Kayanarumi Takamimusubi

Asuka Shrine (飛鳥坐神社, Asukaniimasu-jinja) is a Shinto in the historical capital of Asuka, in Japan. It symbolizes the religious importance of the region during the Asuka period (538 - 710).

It is a Moto-Ise Shrine and its coverage in Ponsbury Fane's book may be useful for helping getting general coverage on the concept.

Historical Context

Before Nara became Japans capital Asuka held that honor. Despite the belief that Nara was Japans permanent capital Asuka actually served as the political hub for a longer duration. Unlike a city Asuka was a cluster of settlements where rulers erected structures like palaces and government offices based on their preferences.

Emperor Ingyo ruled from Tootsu Asuka Palace after ascending to power in 412 AD. It wasn't until Empress Suikos reign in 592 AD that Asuka officially became the capital holding onto this status until 719 AD with some interruptions. During this era several palaces were constructed, such as Toyoura no Miya, Okamoto no Miya and Kiyomihara no Miya showcasing the impermanent nature of ceremonial buildings, in Asuka.

Etymology

Historical documents, like the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki suggest that the name Asuka is linked to the word "tomorrow" (asu) and terms related to proximity and distance like "Chikatsu" (and "Tohotsu" (. The writing of Asuka characters was influenced by Emperor Temmus era, who favored symbols such as " bird" (Tobutori) for palace names adding to the linguistic and cultural history of the region.

Shrine Deities

Asuka ni Masu Jinja is prominently mentioned in the Engishiki, a compilation of Shinto rituals from the period (794 1185 AD). The shrine is known for housing four deities with Kamotsumiyae Kotoshironushi no Kami considered as the deity. Kotoshironushi no Mikoto, a son of Okuninushi no Mikoto played a role in stories about granting land in central reed plains to Amaterasus descendants.

The identities of the three deities at Asuka ni Masu Jinja are not entirely clear. However one theory suggests that Kayanarumi no Mikoto might have been one of them residing at Kamunabi Asuka as a deity, for the emperor.

Shitateruhime, a deity mentioned alongside Kotoshironushi highlights the bonds present, in the shrines pantheon.

Gallery

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  A picturesque view of the Asuka ni Masu Jinja grounds.
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  Another angle of the Asuka ni Masu Jinja grounds showcasing its serene environment.
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  Sacred Stone and Shimenawa
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  Asuka-Yamaguchi-jinja a subshrine of Asuka Shrine
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  Chozuya at Asuka Shrine
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  Two buildings at Asuka Shrine
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  A detailed view of the intricate woodwork on one of the shrine buildings.
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  Trees above the shrine
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  Many Sessha of Asuka Shrine
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  The main worship area within Asuka ni Masu Jinja.
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  Stone with Shimenawa at Asuka Shrine
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  Stones with Shimenawa at Asuka Shrine
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  Haiden
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  The Haiden (worship hall) of Asuka ni Masu Jinja, an important area for rituals and offerings.
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  A view of the shrine's Haiden, surrounded by natural beauty.
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  A close-up of the Haiden within Asuka ni Masu Jinja.
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  Springtime at Asuka ni Masu Jinja, with cherry blossoms enhancing the spiritual ambiance.
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  A view of the shrine during the autumn season, showcasing the vibrant foliage.
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  A different angle of the stone pathways within Asuka ni Masu Jinja.
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  The grand Torii gate at Asuka ni Masu Jinja, marking the sacred boundary of the shrine.
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  A detailed view of the intricate carvings on the Torii at Asuka ni Masu Jinja.
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  A pathway leading up to the shrine, flanked by trees.
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  A historic view of the shrine captured in 2011.
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  Another view of a Torii at Asuka ni Masu Jinja, framed by lush greenery.
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  Road to shrine entrance

References

This page will be placed in the following categories if it is moved to the article namespace.

Categories:

• Moto-Ise Shrines
• Shrines in Asuka
• Shinto shrines in Nara Prefecture
• Asuka, Nara
• Myōjin Taisha
• Son-sha