Unveiling the Mystery: Japan’s Sacred Jewel Legends (Reigyoku)
Japan is a country where the line between the physical and the spiritual is often blurred, woven together by centuries of folklore and mythology. Among the most captivating of these tales are the legends of the Reigyoku (霊玉), or “Sacred Jewels.” While samurai swords and ancient mirrors often dominate historical discussions, the sacred jewel holds a primal, mystical significance that predates written history. For travelers and culture enthusiasts, understanding the Reigyoku offers a fascinating window into the soul of Japan, connecting ancient Shinto rituals to modern pop culture.
The Ancient Origins of the Sacred Jewel
To understand the Reigyoku, one must first look at the Magatama (勾玉). These comma-shaped beads appear in the archaeological record as early as the Jomon period (c. 14,000–300 BC). Originally crafted from stone, clay, and eventually jadeite, these jewels were not merely decorative. They were believed to contain powerful spirits and served as talismans for protection and authority.
The shape of the magatama is a subject of scholarly debate. Some historians believe it represents the shape of a soul (hitodama), others argue it mimics the shape of a fetus symbolizing growth and new life, while some connect it to the shape of the moon or the tooth of a predatory animal. Regardless of the interpretation, the consensus is clear: these stones were vessels of spiritual power.
As Buddhism arrived in Japan, the concept of the Reigyoku expanded to include the Cintamani (Nyoi-hoju), the wish-fulfilling jewel often depicted in the hands of deities like Jizo Bosatsu or clutched in the claws of dragons. This fusion of Shinto animism and Buddhist mysticism cemented the jewel as a central icon of divine intervention.
Legends of Divine Power
The most famous Reigyoku legend is undoubtedly that of the Yasakani no Magatama, one of the three Imperial Regalia of Japan. According to mythology, when the Sun Goddess Amaterasu hid inside a cave, plunging the world into darkness, the gods hung a string of five hundred curved jewels on a Sakaki tree outside to lure her out. The beauty and spiritual resonance of the jewels played a crucial role in returning light to the world.
Another compelling legend involves the Tide Jewels (Kanju and Manju). In the tales of Hoori (the grandfather of the first Emperor, Jimmu), the Dragon God of the sea gifted him two magical jewels. The Shiomitsutama (Tide-Flowing Jewel) could summon floods to drown enemies, while the Shiohirutama (Tide-Ebbing Jewel) could recede the waters to save them. This legend highlights the jewel not just as a static symbol of status, but as an active tool of elemental control, capable of commanding the forces of nature.
From Ancient Myth to Modern Culture
The legacy of the Reigyoku is surprisingly vibrant in modern Japanese culture. If you have ever watched anime or played Japanese video games, you have likely encountered these sacred jewels.
The most direct reference is found in the classic series Inuyasha, where the plot revolves around the “Shikon no Tama” (Jewel of Four Souls), a fictional Reigyoku that grants immense power. Similarly, the concept of collecting dragon balls to grant a wish in Dragon Ball is loosely derived from the Buddhist Cintamani legends. Even in video games like The Legend of Zelda, the spiritual stones and magatama imagery appear frequently, proving that these ancient symbols still resonate with the imagination of the contemporary world.
Traveler’s Tips: Seeking the Sacred Jewel
For travelers wishing to connect with the history of the Reigyoku, there are specific destinations where this heritage is palpable.
- Izumo Taisha (Shimane Prefecture): The Izumo region is historically famous for the production of agate and jade magatama. Visit the Izumo Magatama no Sato Transmission Museum, where you can learn about the craftsmanship and even try your hand at polishing your own sacred stone.
- Ise Grand Shrine (Mie Prefecture): While the actual Imperial Regalia (including the Yasakani no Magatama) are hidden from the public and never shown, they are said to be enshrined here (or at the Imperial Palace). Walking the gravel paths of Ise Jingu allows you to soak in the atmosphere of the mythology surrounding Amaterasu.
- Atsuta Shrine (Nagoya): Famous for housing the Sacred Sword, this shrine also holds deep connections to the Imperial Regalia and offers a profound sense of history regarding the three sacred treasures.
- Souvenir Hunting: When visiting shrine gift shops, look for Omamori (charms) shaped like magatama. They are popular souvenirs believed to bring good luck and ward off evil.
Sources & Further Reading
To dive deeper into the original myths of the Reigyoku, the following historical texts are essential:
- The Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters): Japan’s oldest chronicle, detailing the creation myths and the story of Amaterasu and the cave.
- The Nihon Shoki (The Chronicles of Japan): Offers slightly different variations of the myths found in the Kojiki, including details on the Imperial Regalia.
- The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter (Taketori Monogatari): Features the “Jewel from the Dragon’s Neck” as one of the impossible tasks set by Princess Kaguya.