Welcome to a new blog from Espadas Y Más! Today we will talk about the mythological and interesting figure of the TENGU and their relationship with the samurai.
THE TENGU. JAPANESE FOLKLORE
The tengu, a mysterious and captivating figure from Japanese folklore, has captured the imagination of generations with its appearance and supernatural powers. This being has left an indelible mark on Japanese culture and beliefs. From ancient legends to their depiction in modern art, tengu continue to be an object of interest for lovers of Japanese mythology.
Tengu are usually depicted with a long, sharp, bird-like beak , resembling that of a crow, extending from their mouth. They are also associated with enormous black wings, which allow them to fly at great speed and control the wind . They are said to be able to take the appearance of humans or animals in order to remain unnoticed. A unique feature of tengu is their long, sharp nose, one of the most recognizable symbols of the entity. The tengu's nose is believed to represent their wisdom and cunning, granting them knowledge and supernatural powers.
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Legends of the tengu date back centuries in Japan. According to these legends, these entities are descendants of the Shinto gods and have existed since ancient times. There are countless stories and tales that narrate the exploits of the tengu, which has contributed to their fame and mystery to this day.
One of the most famous stories about tengu takes place on Mount Takao , a sacred site located near Tokyo. According to legend, tengu reside deep within the forests of Takao and are watchful protectors of the mountain. It is said that if anyone ventures too close to their territory without permission, the tengu will punish them with strong gusts of wind and may temporarily paralyze them.
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In this legend, tengu are portrayed as powerful beings and protectors of their territory. Their ability to control the wind is believed to grant them mystical powers over nature and humans. This story has endured through the centuries and has contributed to the widespread belief that tengu are able to influence the weather.
Another famous story related to the tengu involves the brave samurai warriors of Japan . According to legend, tengu are drawn to the spirit of the samurai and often appear to them in the form of birds or creatures with animal features. They are believed to be able to teach martial arts techniques and grant supernatural powers to those who demonstrate bravery and skill in battle.
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This relationship between tengu and samurai has led to the belief that these creatures are associated with war and destruction. Some even believe that tengu are responsible for inciting conflict and disputes between humans, contributing to the fascination and fear surrounding tengu, as they are seen as powerful but potentially dangerous beings.
The exact nature of tengu has been a matter of debate for centuries. Some interpretations see them as lesser divinities or protective spirits in Shinto, the ancient indigenous religion of Japan. They are thought to possess the ability to protect people from evil spirits and harmful deities.
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However, there are those who perceive tengu as demonic and hellish entities. They are credited with malicious and deceitful acts, and are said to cause trouble for humans. Many narratives have depicted tengu as playful beings who enjoy creating chaos and confusion.
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In Japanese culture , they have featured in countless stories, plays, paintings and sculptures, becoming a recurring theme in Japanese art and literature.
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In addition to their influence on art, tengu have also left their mark on the Japanese language. The word “tengu” has been used to describe people or things that are playful, mischievous, or cunning. This association with tengu has led to the creation of a rich terminology that reflects the influence of these creatures on the Japanese language.
Today, tengu remain prominent figures in Japanese popular culture. They are frequently depicted in manga, anime, and video games, capturing the attention of audiences around the world. Their iconic image and role in Japanese legends have made them an enduring symbol of Japanese mythology.
