Japan is one of the world’s most culturally rich nations. Its traditions and customs are the result of a historical process that dates to the Paleolithic era, nearly 35 thousand years ago, with migration patterns throughout the entire Asian continent.
Nowadays, Japan is a territory of contrasts where traditional arts coexist with the most advanced technology. What makes it possible for both of these concepts to come together? The answer lies in the three values that seem to be the pillars of the Japanese people: duty, honor, and obligation. Another possible explanation could be found in mythological and religious beliefs.
Japanese society believes that when someone dies their soul is separated from the physical body. The mental state at the moment of death determines the spirit’s destiny. The soul can turn into a vengeful ghost, aimlessly roaming the Earth in search for peace.
During the Heian period (794 to 1185), an earthquake and the devastation caused by starvation, plagues, and social instability made the elders believe that the solution was to keep the Goryos at bay. These were spirits who were thought to be the source of the earthly unbalance.
Several Goryos were given nobility titles as “interdimensional diplomats” through rituals that transferred political power to these spirits.
The belief of universal instability bound to the existence of these ghosts was what inspired the creation of Goryo Shinko as a religion.
“Heart Sutra” chanting and gifts were offered to them for the sake of peace. Sacred temples such as Shimogoryo and Kamigoryo, located in present Kyoto, were witnesses to the peak of this set of beliefs that slowly disappeared upon the arrival of Budism.
Goryo Shinko remains a part of modern Japansese spirituality. Those ill-intentioned and extravagant ghosts are still taken quite seriously. Whether it is to present natural disasters, maintain order within society, or to fill an emotional void, these traditions will remain and be passed on to future generations.
Translated by María Suárez
