Tsukuyomi is a term rooted in Japanese mythology, folklore, and Shintoism. It refers to the lunar deity worshipped in Japan as the god of the moon, night, and the passage of time. Tsukuyomi is considered one of the three major Shinto gods, alongside Amaterasu, the sun goddess, and Susanoo, the god of storms and the sea.
Etymologically, the term "tsukuyomi" is composed of two parts: "tsuku," meaning "moon," and "yomi," which can be translated as "reading" or "seeing." Thus, the name can be interpreted as "moon-reading" or "moon-viewing." This reflects the deity's connection with the moon as his domain and source of power.
According to Japanese mythology, Tsukuyomi was born when the god Izanagi cleaned his right eye after returning from the underworld. The story suggests that Tsukuyomi's birth was a spontaneous occurrence and he is often seen as a sibling to Amaterasu and Susanoo.
Tsukuyomi is primarily associated with the night, darkness, and the divine power related to the moon. In ancient Japanese beliefs, the moon was revered as a symbol of time, cycles, and enlightenment. As the moon waxes and wanes, Tsukuyomi's influence is believed to affect the ebb and flow of emotions, dreams, and fate.
In contemporary culture, Tsukuyomi is often depicted in various forms of Japanese media, including anime, manga, and video games. He is typically portrayed as a powerful celestial being, sometimes associated with calmness and wisdom, while in other interpretations, he may embody darker and more mysterious elements of the night.
