When you hear the name Ashiya Dōman, what comes to mind? Perhaps a villain, a rival to the legendary Abe no Seimei, or a master of dark sorcery. While these impressions are common, Ashiya Dōman’s true story reveals a much more nuanced and fascinating character.
Born in the area of modern-day Kakogawa in Hyōgo Prefecture, Dōman was a genius of divination from a young age. Over time, he mastered not only divination, but also the art of commanding shikigami and even medicine. Despite his talents and contributions, he is often remembered as the antagonist in the rivalry with Abe no Seimei.
In this article, we’ll explore who Ashiya Dōman was, his connection with Abe no Seimei, and his portrayal in the popular game Nioh 2. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this enigmatic figure!
Who Is Ashiya Dōman?
His Birthplace and Early Life
Ashiya Dōman was born in the Harima Province, now part of Hyōgo Prefecture, near Kakogawa City. From a young age, he showed exceptional talent in divination, a skill that amazed those around him. His natural ability set him on a path to becoming one of the most renowned practitioners of onmyōdō, the traditional Japanese esoteric cosmology.
A Prodigy in Divination
Divination involves predicting the future and determining the outcome of events. Dōman excelled in this practice as a young boy and soon earned a reputation for his extraordinary skills.
A Life of Training and Service
Ashiya Dōman wasn’t just a diviner. He was also known for mastering the use of shikigami, spiritual entities summoned through onmyōdō practices. In addition, he studied medicine and used his knowledge to help local communities, treating illnesses and offering aid to those in need.
This humanitarian side of Dōman often contrasts with the villainous image portrayed in stories.
Ashiya Dōman and Abe no Seimei
The Legendary Rivalry
Ashiya Dōman and Abe no Seimei are forever linked as legendary rivals in Japanese history and folklore. One of their most famous encounters involved a “contest of spells,” where the two battled to determine who possessed greater mastery over onmyōdō. Dōman was ultimately defeated, which solidified his reputation as a rival and, in some accounts, a villain.
Why Is Dōman Seen as a Villain?
Dōman’s reputation as a villain stems partly from the story of him conspiring against Fujiwara no Michinaga, one of the most powerful court nobles of the Heian period. According to legend, he used sorcery to harm Michinaga under the orders of Fujiwara no Akinari. However, his plot was thwarted by Michinaga’s dog and Abe no Seimei, leading to Dōman’s exile back to his homeland.
This incident, along with his rivalry with Seimei, has led to his frequent portrayal as a “dark shadow” in Japanese folklore.
Was Dōman Truly Evil?
Despite the stories, there’s reason to believe Dōman wasn’t purely a villain. He devoted much of his life to study and practice, helping communities with his medical skills. Some accounts suggest he was a misunderstood figure, whose reputation as a villain was exaggerated over time.
Ashiya Dōman in Nioh 2
Ashiya Dōman also appears in the action game Nioh 2. In the game, he is portrayed as a powerful sorcerer and a formidable adversary. His design blends elements of his legendary image as a master of onmyōdō with the darker, villainous aura often associated with his name.
Nioh 2 reinterprets his story for modern audiences, offering players a glimpse into how folklore can evolve in contemporary media.
Ashiya Dōman Q&A
- QWhy is Ashiya Dōman often portrayed as a villain?
- A
His rivalry with Abe no Seimei and the legend of his failed plot against Fujiwara no Michinaga contributed to his villainous image. However, these stories may not reflect the full truth of his character.
- QWhat was Ashiya Dōman’s relationship with Abe no Seimei?
- A
Dōman and Seimei were legendary rivals, often competing to prove their mastery of onmyōdō. Their most famous encounter, the “contest of spells,” ended in Seimei’s victory.
Conclusion
Ashiya Dōman is a figure shrouded in mystery. While often remembered as Abe no Seimei’s rival and an antagonist, his contributions to divination, onmyōdō, and medicine suggest a more complex and multi-faceted individual.
Whether you view him as a villain, a misunderstood genius, or a fascinating historical figure, Ashiya Dōman’s legacy continues to captivate. If you’re a fan of Japanese folklore or Nioh 2, why not take a closer look at the life and legend of this enigmatic onmyōji?
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