The Creation of Shinmyō Gods in Jingi-kōshiki

Abstract

Jingi-kōshiki is a book of ritual for redemption by gods generally called Jingi. It is said to be related to Shaseki-shū by Mujū, Nakatomi-no-harae-kunge, and other medieval Shinto texts. Now it is known that it has a great influence on the composition of songs in kagura or Shinto theatrical dance. Interestingly enough there are some divine beings called not Jingi but Shinmyō in Jingi-kōshiki. They were created as more omnipotent gods who can redeem even dead worshippers as well as living ones.