Teaching Students About the Japanese Goddess Of War
The Japanese culture is full of fascinating stories, myths and legends, one of the most prominent of which is the Goddess of War, Amaterasu. Amaterasu was a revered deity in ancient Japan, known for her role as the sun goddess and her connection to the warrior class. Many Japanese people believed that Amaterasu was the embodiment of strength, courage, and valour, making her a figure of immense spiritual importance in their culture.
As teachers, it is important for us to educate our students about different cultures and belief systems. Teaching students about Amaterasu can not only provide an exciting lesson on Japanese culture but also help develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the value systems of different cultures. Here are some tips for teaching students about the Japanese Goddess of War.
1. Introduce the concept of deity and mythology: Start by introducing students to the concept of deities and mythology. Explain that every culture has its own tales of gods and goddesses who possess unique powers and traits that reflect the values of that culture. Discuss with your students how these stories are passed down from generation to generation and how they shape the cultural identity of a civilization.
2. Explore the mythology of Amaterasu: Explain to your students that Amaterasu is the goddess of the sun, but also known as the goddess of war due to her association with the warrior class. Tell her story to the students; how she was born from the left eye of the god Izanagi, and eventually took over the heavens after a conflict with her brother, Susano. She is believed to have given birth to Japan’s first emperor, symbolizing the highly revered position of Amaterasu in the Japanese culture.
3. Discuss the significance of Amaterasu: Amaterasu holds significant symbolism in Japanese culture. The myth surrounding her reflects the cultural values of obedience, harmony, and duty. Explain to the students how the goddess was believed to be responsible for the prosperity of the land, and how the success of the warriors in battle is tied to Amaterasu’s favour. Explore how reverence and devotion to the goddess is woven into the fabric of Japanese society and how it shapes their cultural identity.
4. Encourage students to create their depictions of the goddess: Students can create their own depictions of Amaterasu, either through drawings, paintings or sculptures. Encourage them to incorporate traditional Japanese techniques or symbols from mythology into their creations. This engagement in the task will help students better understand and appreciate the value of Japanese mythology and symbolism.
In conclusion, teaching students about the Japanese Goddess of War is an exciting and essential lesson on the cultures and beliefs of the Japanese people. It provides a unique opportunity for students to explore and appreciate the values and symbolism inherent in Japanese mythology, thereby fostering their understanding of and respect for different cultures.