When we hear the names “Umisachihiko” and “Yamasachihiko,” we immediately think of one of the most famous sibling stories in Japanese mythology. The elder brother, Umisachihiko (Hoderi), is revered as the god of fishing, while the younger brother, Yamasachihiko (Hoori), is celebrated as the god of hunting.
However, few people truly understand the full depth of their story, including their family lineage and the intricate details of the myths surrounding them. This article delves deeper into their tale, exploring how their divine roles and actions shaped one of the most fascinating legends in Japanese mythology.
I think this is the first Japanese mythology I read.
Then I will read it, too
The Myth of Umisachihiko and Yamasachihiko
Umisachihiko and Yamasachihiko were born as sons of Ninigi no Mikoto, a descendant of the sun goddess Amaterasu.
If you don’t know about Amaterasu, please read the article below.
While Umisachihiko dedicated himself to the sea, mastering the art of fishing, Yamasachihiko found his calling in the mountains, becoming an expert hunter.
Their contrasting domains symbolized the interdependence of nature, with both siblings playing vital roles in maintaining harmony between the sea and the land. Despite their divine lineage, their story is also one of very human emotions—envy, anger, forgiveness, and redemption.
The Fateful Day Their Paths Crossed
One day, driven by curiosity, Yamasachihiko asked his brother to trade tools so he could try fishing. At first, Umisachihiko refused, emphasizing the importance of his fishing gear. But after much persuasion, he reluctantly agreed. Unfortunately, this exchange didn’t go well for either brother.
Yamasachihiko failed to catch any fish and, worse yet, lost Umisachihiko’s prized fishing hook in the ocean. This event sparked a series of conflicts between the two, testing their bond as brothers.
Divine Intervention and the Journey to the Sea God’s Palace
Desperate to recover the lost hook, Yamasachihiko attempted to make amends by crafting replacement hooks from his own sword. However, Umisachihiko refused to accept them, leaving Yamasachihiko in despair.
At this moment of hopelessness, the god Shiotsuchi no Kami appeared, offering a solution. Following the god’s advice, Yamasachihiko ventured to the underwater palace of Watatsumi no Kami (the sea god). There, he was welcomed with great hospitality and even married the sea god’s daughter, Toyotama-hime, beginning a new chapter of happiness.
The Return of the Lost Hook and the Magical Jewels
After three years of bliss, Yamasachihiko remembered his unresolved conflict with his brother. Sharing the story with Watatsumi no Kami, the sea god summoned all sea creatures to help find the lost hook. A large sea bream confessed to swallowing it, finally putting an end to Yamasachihiko’s guilt.
Before returning to the surface, Watatsumi no Kami gave him two magical jewels: the Tide-Raising Jewel (Shiomidama) and the Tide-Calming Jewel (Shiohirutama). He also advised Yamasachihiko to silently curse the hook while returning it to his brother, ensuring his own prosperity and protection.
Reconciliation and Legacy
Upon his return, Yamasachihiko gave the hook back to his brother and followed the sea god’s instructions. As foretold, Umisachihiko’s fortunes began to decline. When Umisachihiko eventually confronted Yamasachihiko in anger, the younger brother used the Tide-Raising Jewel to submerge him in water.
When Umisachihiko begged for forgiveness, Yamasachihiko showed mercy, using the Tide-Calming Jewel to save him. This act of compassion led to their reconciliation, with Umisachihiko pledging loyalty to his younger sibling. Yamasachihiko’s descendants went on to form the foundation of Japan’s imperial family, cementing his legacy in history.
Conclusion: A Myth of Brotherhood and Balance
The tale of Umisachihiko and Yamasachihiko is a timeless story of sibling rivalry, divine guidance, and eventual reconciliation. It illustrates not only the importance of forgiveness, but also the harmony between nature’s forces, symbolized by the sea and the mountains.
Today, their legacy lives on through sacred sites like Shiogama Shrine and Aoshima Shrine, where their divine presence continues to be honored. Through this myth, we gain a deeper understanding of Japan’s cultural and spiritual roots.
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