Japan’s “Three Sacred Treasures” (三種の神器, Sanshu no Jingi) are deeply significant symbols of the Japanese imperial family and are central to the country’s mythology, culture, and history. These treasures are the mirror, the sword, and the jewel, and they have been passed down through generations as the emblem of the legitimacy and divine rule of Japan’s emperors. These sacred objects are not merely historical artifacts but also represent the spiritual connection between the imperial family and Japan’s Shinto beliefs. Here’s an exploration of their meaning, origins, and significance.
The Origins of the Three Sacred Treasures
The Three Sacred Treasures are believed to have been passed down from the Sun Goddess Amaterasu, the most important deity in Shintoism. According to Japanese mythology, these treasures were given to the first emperor, Emperor Jimmu, who is said to be a descendant of Amaterasu herself. The treasures symbolize the divine right to rule Japan, reinforcing the emperor’s sacred status and the connection between the imperial family and the gods.
The origin story of these treasures is described in Japan’s ancient historical texts, the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters) and the Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan). These documents chronicle Japan’s mythological beginnings, including the stories of gods and goddesses, and lay the foundation for the cultural and spiritual identity of Japan.
The three items that comprise the treasures are:
- The Mirror (Yata no Kagami)
- The Sword (Kusanagi no Tsurugi)
- The Jewel (Yasakani no Magatama)
Each of these objects has its own distinct symbolism, and together, they represent the core values of Japan’s spiritual and cultural heritage: purity, valor, and wisdom.
The Mirror: Yata no Kagami
The Yata no Kagami is a bronze mirror, and it represents wisdom and honesty. In Shinto, mirrors are regarded as sacred objects that reflect not only physical appearances but also the inner spirit of a person. The mirror symbolizes the divine qualities of truth and enlightenment, reflecting the inner moral purity of the emperor.
In the mythology, the mirror was said to have been used by the Sun Goddess Amaterasu to see her own reflection. When Amaterasu hid herself in a cave, plunging the world into darkness, the other gods used the mirror to lure her out. The mirror, therefore, became a symbol of illumination, both literally and metaphorically.
In the context of the imperial family, the mirror symbolizes the emperor’s role as a righteous and honest leader, one who embodies the purity and truth of Japan’s divine heritage. It is also said to hold the spirit of Amaterasu herself, linking the emperor directly to the sun goddess.
The Sword: Kusanagi no Tsurugi
The Kusanagi no Tsurugi is a legendary sword, sometimes called the “Grass-Cutting Sword.” It is a symbol of valor and military power. According to myth, the sword was discovered by the storm god Susanoo when he slayed the serpent-like creature Yamata-no-Orochi. When the monster was slain, the sword was found in its tail. Susanoo gave it to Amaterasu as a token of his victory and an expression of his strength.
The sword is associated with the strength and authority of the emperor and serves as a reminder of the nation’s military history and the importance of leadership in times of conflict. It is also a symbol of the power of the Japanese people and their commitment to protect their country and heritage.
The Kusanagi no Tsurugi is often portrayed as a mystical weapon, and it holds a central place in Japan’s folklore, embodying both martial prowess and honor. It is said that the sword possesses a spiritual connection to the divine, and that it should be wielded only by those who are worthy of its power.
The Jewel: Yasakani no Magatama
The Yasakani no Magatama is a curved, bead-like jewel that represents benevolence, love, and compassion. This jewel, traditionally made from jade or agate, is believed to embody the virtues of kindness, wisdom, and grace. In Shinto, magatama are thought to possess protective and spiritual properties, and they have been used in rituals and ceremonies for centuries.
The Yasakani no Magatama is most famous for its association with the Sun Goddess Amaterasu. In the myth, the jewel was presented to Amaterasu by the storm god Susanoo as a token of his apology for his earlier transgressions. The gift of the jewel symbolized reconciliation and peace, and it became a representation of the emperor’s role in maintaining harmony and balance within Japan.
As the emblem of the emperor’s compassion, the Yasakani no Magatama also symbolizes the importance of diplomacy and the responsibility of rulers to guide their people with kindness and fairness.
The Importance of the Three Sacred Treasures
The Three Sacred Treasures are not merely symbolic artifacts; they are deeply woven into the fabric of Japan’s identity. They represent the legitimacy of the Japanese imperial family, which claims descent from the Sun Goddess Amaterasu. For centuries, these treasures have been used in the imperial succession rituals, and they are central to the emperor’s coronation. When a new emperor ascends to the throne, the Three Sacred Treasures are essential elements in the ceremony, confirming the emperor’s divine right to rule.
The importance of these treasures goes beyond the imperial family. They represent the values that the Japanese people hold dear: wisdom, valor, and compassion. The Three Sacred Treasures embody the nation’s historical continuity, spiritual beliefs, and cultural identity.
While the physical treasures themselves are kept in various sacred locations, such as the Imperial Palace, their symbolic significance remains paramount. The treasures are not merely objects of historical interest but are revered as sacred symbols of the connection between Japan’s imperial family, the divine, and the Japanese people. They serve as a reminder of the nation’s enduring heritage and its continued reverence for Shinto beliefs.
The Modern Relevance of the Three Sacred Treasures
Though the physical Three Sacred Treasures are no longer actively used in the way they once were, their symbolism remains vital in modern Japan. The treasures are often invoked during important state ceremonies and celebrations, and their association with the imperial family continues to inspire respect and admiration. They are also a reminder of Japan’s long and complex history, which stretches back to the mythical era and continues to shape the nation’s present and future.
In contemporary Japan, the Three Sacred Treasures also represent the enduring values of the country: the pursuit of wisdom, the defense of the nation, and the cultivation of compassion and harmony. These values are reflected in Japanese culture, from the ideals of martial arts to the emphasis on harmony in social relationships and the importance of respecting nature.
Conclusion
The Three Sacred Treasures are more than just ancient relics of Japan’s past; they are living symbols of the spiritual and cultural heritage that continues to shape the nation. The mirror, the sword, and the jewel encapsulate the core values of Japan’s identity—wisdom, valor, and compassion—and remind the Japanese people of their divine connection to their past, present, and future. As enduring symbols of the emperor’s legitimacy and the nation’s continuity, the Three Sacred Treasures continue to inspire reverence, respect, and pride in the hearts of the Japanese people.