The Kojiki (古事記), or "Records of Ancient Matters", stands as the oldest surviving literary work in Japan. Compiled in 712 CE, this monumental text serves as a vital record of Japanese mythology, oral traditions, and imperial genealogy, and remains a cornerstone in understanding the spiritual and political origins of the nation.
The Kojiki is a collection of ancient myths, legends, hymns, semi-historical accounts, and genealogies tracing the divine creation of the Japanese archipelago and the origins of the kami (Shinto deities) and the imperial line. It reflects how early Japanese societies sought to explain the universe, legitimize imperial rule, and unify various clans under the emerging Yamato state.
The Kojiki was more than just a mythological record—it was a political tool. Commissioned during a time of increasing cultural influence from mainland Asia, it was designed to:
Solidify the legitimacy of the Yamato imperial family, linking them directly to divine beings.
Unify rival clans and regional traditions into a single national narrative.
Correct inconsistencies in clan histories and oral accounts.
Its compilation helped standardize a shared national identity rooted in Shinto beliefs, which remain influential today.
According to its preface, the Kojiki was compiled by Ō no Yasumaro, a noble scribe, at the request of Empress Genmei in 711 CE. The work is based on oral accounts memorized by Hieda no Are, a court attendant renowned for his exceptional memory.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 673–686 CE | Emperor Tenmu orders a review of clan genealogies and selects Hieda no Are to memorize the national myths and records. |
| 707–715 CE | Empress Genmei ascends the throne and initiates the official compilation of Japan’s myths. |
| 711 CE (Wadō 4) | Ō no Yasumaro is tasked with documenting the memorized records. |
| 712 CE (Wadō 5) | Kojiki is completed and presented to Empress Genmei. |
The Kojiki is divided into three main volumes:
Kamitsumaki (Upper Volume) – Covers the creation of the universe and birth of the gods.
Nakatsumaki (Middle Volume) – Chronicles the divine descent and early legendary emperors.
Shimotsumaki (Lower Volume) – Records semi-historical emperors up to Emperor Suiko (r. 593–628 CE).
Each section blends myth and politics, embedding divine authority into the historical narrative of the imperial family.
Together with the Nihon Shoki (completed in 720 CE), the Kojiki serves as a foundational text of Shinto, Japan’s indigenous religion. It shaped core Shinto rituals such as:
Misogi (purification rituals)
Worship of kami tied to natural features and imperial ancestors
Shrine practices and festival rites
The myths not only explained the spiritual order but also justified political hierarchy and social order in early Japan.
From ancient emperors to modern scholars, the Kojiki continues to influence Japanese identity, literature, religion, and national consciousness. It offers:
A window into early Japanese beliefs
The ideological roots of the imperial system
Rich content for cultural, historical, and religious studies
Whether you're interested in Japanese mythology, Shinto practices, or the foundations of East Asian literature, the Kojiki is an essential read that bridges legend with legacy.