A. Gautam

Question

Long long ago there lived gods and goddesses in Japan. Amaterasu was a beautiful and loving goddess who ruled over the sun and the fields of rice that the Japanese people lived on. Another goddess, Uzume, was less powerful. Uzume was responsible for laughter, celebration, and the ancient practice of drumming.

Amaterasu and her brother Susano-o didn’t get along. In fact, they were rivals. One day, Susano-o, who was violent and angry, attacked her. She became extremely sad and grieved and grieved. She went to a dark cave in the mountains. No matter how much others pleaded, she refused to return to the heavens.

Without Amaterasu, the sun didn’t shine. Without the sun, the crops didn’t grow. Without the crops, the world was at a risk of famine. Entire world sank into darkness. Evil spirits began to roam the Earth.

Many gods tried to draw Amaterasu from the cave. Only Uzume was successful. She dressed in flowers and danced on an upturned washtub. Other gods began to laugh at Uzume’s performance. When the uproar was too much, Amaterasu took a peek from her cave. At that moment, Uzume pulled her out of the cave, and light returned to the world. The world has been bright ever since.
Question

Many ancient myths include messages and themes that are relevant

Answer 1

to contemporary life. In the case of the Japanese myth surrounding Amaterasu and Uzume, several key themes and messages can be drawn that resonate with today's society.

1. The Importance of Community and Support: The myth illustrates how individual struggles can affect the whole community. When Amaterasu withdrew, darkness enveloped the world, causing distress for everyone. It highlights the need for collective support and unity during challenging times. Just as Uzume brought laughter and joy to help restore balance, we too can find strength in community during difficult periods.

2. Light and Darkness as Metaphors: The contrast between light and darkness symbolizes emotional and psychological states. Amaterasu's withdrawal represents despair and sadness, while her emergence signifies hope, joy, and renewal. This speaks to the importance of mental health and the need to find ways to combat inner darkness through activities that bring joy and encourage connection, much like Uzume’s dance.

3. The Power of Joy and Laughter: Uzume’s ability to evoke laughter and celebrate life underscores the significance of joy as a transformative force. In contemporary life, finding moments of joy amidst struggles can act as a powerful catalyst for change and healing, reminding us of the importance of maintaining a positive outlook even in tough times.

4. Conflict and Resolution: The rivalry between Amaterasu and Susano-o serves as a reminder that conflicts can arise within families or communities. However, it is the actions of others (like Uzume) that can help mediate and resolve these issues. This speaks to the importance of empathy, understanding, and the willingness to bridge divides in our personal relationships and society at large.

5. Balance in Life: The narrative illustrates the need for balance between opposing forces, such as light and darkness or joy and sorrow. The continuous cycle of these elements is a natural part of existence, emphasizing that both have their place and can lead to growth and understanding if navigated properly.

In summary, this ancient myth not only tells a captivating story of gods and goddesses but also imparts enduring lessons about community, resilience, joy, conflict resolution, and the necessity of embracing the dualities of life. These themes remain relevant as they guide us in addressing the complexities of contemporary human experiences.