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Shinto Gods Raijin and Fujin

PostPosted: Fri Aug 16, 2013 5:19 pm
by XofderXofder
I've tried doing a bit of research on these two for an idea that I have but the pages on Wikipedia are a bit lacking, especially with Fujin, and I'm not exactly sure where to start looking for info.

I was wondering if there's any nifty little myths and legends surrounding them. I know about the belly button one with respect to Raijin and how he was feasting on Izanmi's rotten corpse in Yomi and how he was sent after Izangi when he looked upon Izanmi's hellish form because of her shame of her degraded state. I know that Fujin has a bag of winds but that's about it. I know about Raijin's drums too and about Raijuu.

Other than that I got nothing. Things like the belly button legend would be useful if you know of any. Personality traits would be good to, if there are any that is.

Also would anyone happen to know if there has been any incident where a mortal has been to Heaven or Niflheim and not been dead or a spirit in the AMG manga or anime?

If you know anything it'd be great, thanks.

Re: Shinto Gods Raijin and Fujin

PostPosted: Fri Aug 16, 2013 6:23 pm
by Crescent Pulsar S
As far as I can remember, in regard to myths, both Raijin and Fuujin were considered evil, the equivalent of demons (oni). To be more accurate, they opposed the gods/Buddha. After a battle with Buddha and/or his fellow deities, they were captured and henceforth (for whatever reason) changed their ways and joined the heavenly retinue.

If I remember correctly, the Shinto versions in question are based on/inspired by both Buddhist and Hindu deities (I forget their names). Fuujin, in particular, was influenced by the Greek god Boreas, I believe.

Edit: I did a little search for those names, and came up with this. It has some information on Fuujin's associations in his Hindu and Buddhist aspects.

Re: Shinto Gods Raijin and Fujin

PostPosted: Sat Aug 17, 2013 7:34 am
by XofderXofder
Thanks, especially for the link. Has a nice bit of info on other deities too.

As far as I can remember, in regard to myths, both Raijin and Fuujin were considered evil, the equivalent of demons (oni). To be more accurate, they opposed the gods/Buddha. After a battle with Buddha and/or his fellow deities, they were captured and henceforth (for whatever reason) changed their ways and joined the heavenly retinue.


I thought that was the case with Raijin at least but I didn't know about Fujin. (I think I read it in a fanfiction somewhere but I wasn't sure how reliable it was).

Re: Shinto Gods Raijin and Fujin

PostPosted: Sat Aug 17, 2013 8:01 am
by Crescent Pulsar S
Yeah, Fuujin was involved with that, too. They seem to be two peas in a pod. I've also seen that be the case in a few anime and manga, where the two (as deities, or someone representing them or their power) are paired together.

Re: Shinto Gods Raijin and Fujin

PostPosted: Wed Aug 21, 2013 9:51 am
by Té Rowan
There may be something on Sacred Texts dot-com, but I really don't know.