Akuma (folklore)
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Anakuma( ác ma ) is an evil spirit inJapanese folklore,[1][2]sometimes described in English-language sources as adevilordemon.[2][3]An alternative name for the akuma isma(ま).[4]Akumais the name assigned toSataninJapanese Christianity,and theMarainJapanese Buddhism.
Mythology[edit]
The earliest uses of the wordakumaare mainly found in Buddhist texts, but it also appears in literary works, especially those written during theHeian period(794–1185 AD).[5]Later, following the introduction ofChristianityto Japan,akumabecame the customary way of translating the English wordSatan.[5]
An akuma is typically depicted as an entity with a fiery head and flaming eyes, and carrying a sword. It is said to be to be a harbinger of misfortune to those who see it.[4]
There have been attestations of people traditionally associating mental illness with the presence of akuma.[6]
References[edit]
- ^Ashkenazi, Michael (2003).Handbook of Japanese Mythology.Santa Barbara, CA: ABC-CLIO. p. 311.ISBN1-57607-467-6.
- ^abBane, Theresa (2016).Encyclopedia of Spirits and Ghosts in World Mythology.Jefferson, NC: McFarland & Company, Inc., Publishers. p. 19.ISBN978-1-4766-6355-5.
- ^Brinkley, Frank (1896).An Unabridged Japanese-English Dictionary.Sanseidō. p. 22.
- ^abJones, Alison (1995).Larousse Dictionary of World Folklore.Larousse. p. 12.ISBN0-7523-00-43-1.
- ^abLink, Luther (1995).Devil: A Mask Without a Face.London: Reaktion Books. p. 188.ISBN0-948462-67-1.
- ^Michele R. Davidson (2012).A Nurse's Guide to Women's Mental Health.New York: Springer Publishing Company, LLC. p. 34.ISBN978-0-8261-7113-9.
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