Kanda-koro-kamuy

Kanda-koro-kamuy is the Ainu kamuy (god) of the sky. He is the prime originator of Ainu mythology, responsible either directly or indirectly for the creation of all things.

Mythology

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While Kanda-koro-kamuy is believed to be a powerful kamuy, he is not presented as a supreme being. He is also in many ways a background figure: while his presence was necessary for the creation of the world, he plays only a small part in subsequent events, often as a mediator.[1] He is considered the overseer and master of the sky, much as Cikap-kamuy is the overseer of the land.

He appointed Mosir-kara-kamuy to shape the earth, preparing it for inhabitation by humankind.

Notes

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  1. ^ Ashkenazy, Michael. Handbook of Japanese Mythology. Santa Barbara, California: ABC-Clio, 2003. 192-193

References

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  • Ashkenazy, Michael. Handbook of Japanese Mythology. Santa Barbara, California: ABC-Clio, 2003.
  • Etter, Carl. Ainu Folklore: Traditions and Culture of the Vanishing Aborigines of Japan. Chicago: Wilcox and Follett, 1949.
  • Munro, Neil Gordon. Ainu Creed and Cult. New York: Columbia University Press, 1995.