Tsukuyomi-no-MikotoLord of the MoonThe Moon-Counting Kami
Relationship
The brother who killed and was separated from the sun
Warning
He does not return what is given he measures it
Resonance
Those who keep the night those who count days those who live apart from family
Symbols
Moon discTwo sides of the skyWhite clothThe rice goddessNight rule
Mythology Summary
Tsukuyomi is the moon kami born from Izanagi's right eye during his purification at the Tachibana River, one of the three noble children, and in the Kojiki he is given rule over the night. The Nihon Shoki tells how, sent to wait on Uke-mochi, the goddess of food, he found her producing food from her nose, mouth and rectum, took it for pollution and killed her; Amaterasu was so appalled that she moved to another part of the sky, and that is why sun and moon are apart. The Kojiki transfers the same killing to Susanoo and Ogetsuhime.
Modern Practice
He is kept at a handful of shrines, including the Tsukuyomi-jinja at Ise and at Matsuo in Kyoto, with water, salt, sake and white cloth, and at the autumn moon-viewing that is now more poetic than liturgical. His practice is the quiet hour: counting the days, keeping the night, and living with a separation that will not be repaired.