December 8th and 9th

Ama-terasu

At this time of the year, the ancient and most important of all the Shinto divinities, Ama-terasu is honored. Ama-terasu is the daughter of Izanagi and Izanami, the Gods of creation, who gave birth to the islands of Japan. So bright and great was her luster, Ama-terasu was sent to heaven to govern humanity. Laster she was jointed by her brother Tsuki-Yumi the Moon God. Ama-terasu is the supreme deity of the ordinary people and of the royal family. The Emperor is descended from her grandson and is the high priest of her cult.