The Yasakani no Magatama: Japan’s Symbol of Divine Mercy
Deep within the Imperial Palace in Tokyo lies an artifact of immeasurable worth, yet it has never been seen by the public. It is the Yasakani no Magatama, the sacred jewel that forms one-third of the Imperial Regalia of Japan. While the Mirror represents wisdom and the Sword represents valor, the Jewel stands as the eternal symbol of benevolence and mercy.
For cultural travelers and history enthusiasts, understanding the Yasakani Jewel is essential to grasping the spiritual foundation of the Chrysanthemum Throne. This guide explores the origins, legends, and enduring cultural significance of this mysterious jade bead.
The Origins of the Curved Bead
To understand the Yasakani no Magatama, one must first understand the magatama shape itself. These comma-shaped beads appear in the archaeological record of Japan dating back to the Jomon period (c. 14,000–300 BCE). Originally crafted from stone, animal tooth, and eventually jadeite, they were likely used as talismans or ceremonial jewelry.
The shape is a subject of much debate among historians. Some believe it represents the shape of a soul, while others argue it mimics the shape of a fetus, symbolizing growth and new life. In the context of the Imperial Regalia, the Yasakani Jewel is believed to be made of green jade. Unlike the other two treasures, the Mirror and the Sword, which have replica stand-ins used for ceremonies while the “originals” reside in shrines elsewhere, the Yasakani no Magatama located in the Imperial Palace is believed to be the original legendary artifact.
The Legend of Amaterasu
The story of the Yasakani Jewel is inextricably linked to the creation myths of Japan. According to ancient chronicles, the sun goddess Amaterasu, terrified by the violent rampages of her brother Susanoo, fled into a cave known as the Ama-no-Iwato. Her departure plunged the world into darkness and chaos.
To lure her out, the other gods devised a plan. They gathered outside the cave to perform a raucous festival. As part of the preparations, the jadesmith deity, Tama-no-Oya-no-Mikoto, crafted a long string of five hundred curved jewels—the Yasakani no Magatama. This sparkling necklace was hung on a Sakaki tree outside the cave alongside a divine mirror.
When Amaterasu peeked out, intrigued by the laughter and the reflection in the mirror, she was drawn from the cave, restoring light to the world. The jewel, having been bathed in her divine presence, became a sacred conduit of her authority. It was later bequeathed to her grandson, Ninigi-no-Mikoto, when he was sent down to rule the earth, establishing the imperial lineage.
The Symbolism of Mercy
Why does a stone bead represent mercy? In the triad of the Imperial Regalia (Sanshu no Jingi), the virtues function as a system of checks and balances for the Emperor:
- The Mirror (Yata no Kagami): Represents Wisdom and honesty.
- The Sword (Kusanagi no Tsurugi): Represents Valor and the power to command.
- The Jewel (Yasakani no Magatama): Represents Benevolence, Mercy, and Gentleness.
The concept is that power (Sword) without wisdom (Mirror) is dangerous, but power and wisdom without mercy (Jewel) lead to tyranny. The smooth, curved, and yielding shape of the magatama suggests a temperament that is flexible and kind, softening the hard edges of justice. It reminds the ruler to govern with compassion for the people.
Modern Culture and the Imperial Succession
While the jewel remains hidden, its presence is felt powerfully during the accession of a new Emperor. In modern Japan, the Yasakani no Magatama gained renewed attention during the enthronement of Emperor Naruhito in 2019.
During the Kenji-to-Shokei-no-gi (The Ceremony for Inheriting the Imperial Regalia), court officials carried boxes containing the Sword and the Jewel into the state room. This ritual is the physical transfer of imperial legitimacy. The fact that the jewel is the only treasure believed to be the physical original makes it the most direct link to the mythological age.
Beyond the palace walls, the image of the magatama permeates Japanese pop culture. From video games like The Legend of Zelda to anime series like Naruto and One Piece, the concept of the “sacred curved jewel” appears repeatedly as a source of mystical power, proving that the ancient symbol still resonates with the modern imagination.
Traveler’s Tips: Chasing the Myth
Because the Yasakani no Magatama is housed within the Kashiko-dokoro (Palace Sanctuary) on the grounds of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, you cannot view it. However, travelers can still experience the history surrounding it:
- Tokyo National Museum (Ueno): Visit the archaeological gallery to see authentic ancient magatama beads from the Kofun period. This gives you the best visual approximation of what the sacred treasure looks like.
- The Imperial Palace East Gardens: While you cannot enter the sanctuary, walking the grounds of the East Gardens allows you to be physically close to the location of the Regalia.
- Tama-no-Oya Shrine (Yamaguchi Prefecture): For the dedicated pilgrim, this shrine is dedicated to the deity who crafted the jewel. It is a quiet, spiritual location far from the tourist crowds.
- Atsuta Shrine (Nagoya): While this shrine houses the Sacred Sword, the museum collection here features incredible historical artifacts that contextualize the importance of the Three Sacred Treasures.
Sources & Further Reading
- The Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters): Translated by Basil Hall Chamberlain. The primary source for the Ama-no-Iwato legend.
- The Nihon Shoki (The Chronicles of Japan): Translated by W.G. Aston. Provides historical context for the imperial lineage.
- Shinto: The Kami Way: By Sokyo Ono. Excellent for understanding the theological significance of the Regalia.