Not Only to Heaven and Earth: Logics of Sacrifice in Japan

This contribution addresses the terminological issues related to the practice of naming and translating ‘sacrifice’ in Japanese cultural history, aiming to provide an understanding of the role and dynamics of sacrifice in shaping religious beliefs, social practices, and political ideologies. Focusing on key terms such as sai/matsuru and hitobashira, the discussion draws on ancient chronicles like the Nihon shoki (eighth century CE), premodern sources, and interpretations by influential folklorists, particularly Orikuchi Shinobu (1887–1953), in order to uncover the ritualistic and socioreligious significance embedded in these concepts. Additionally, it explores the challenges posed by the introduction of foreign spirits, particularly Confucius, into the Japanese pantheon, examining the symbolic and political dimensions of Confucian sacrifices over time. Lastly, it examines modern forms of sacrifice, both political and spiritual, in the context of wartime Japan and post-war reconciliation. It analyses the narratives of fallen soldiers, political prisoners, and spiritual leaders, shedding light on the intersection of sacrifice, nationalism, and religious beliefs in twentieth-century Japanese society.