Jishin-Namazu : The Earthquake Maker

Jishin-Namazu

Introduction

In Japanese mythology, amidst gods and spirits, one peculiar creature stands out — Jishin-namazu, the earthquake-causing catfish. This mythical entity embodies both the natural forces and the fears of seismic activity in Japan. When the earth trembles, buildings sway, and panic erupts, it is believed to be the wrath of a slumbering giant – the Jishin-namazu. This colossal creature dwells beneath the Japanese archipelago, its movements causing the ground to churn and homes to crumble. Known also as the Namazu or Ōnamazu, this giant underground catfish has captivated imaginations for centuries, holding a unique place in Japanese mythology.

Physical Traits

Jishin-namazu, translating to “earthquake catfish,” is a mythical creature of immense size and power in Japanese mythology. Descriptions vary, but all portray it as an enormous catfish with an elongated, serpentine body covered in thick, glistening scales. Its long, flowing whiskers frame a whiskered face, and its menacing, often red-glowing eyes pierce the darkness of its subterranean home beneath the Japanese archipelago.

The Jishin-namazu’s immense size and movements are believed to cause seismic activity, making the ground tremble and cities quake. This colossal creature, said to coil around tectonic plates, is depicted in legends as a catfish capable of shifting entire landscapes with its slightest motion. The image of humans battling this giant catfish is deeply etched into Japanese folklore.

Family

Jishin-namazu is part of a race of giant catfish known as Ōnamazu, though these lesser-known catfish are not directly linked to earthquakes. In Japanese folklore, Jishin-namazu is often depicted as a solitary creature, responsible for seismic disturbances. Some variations suggest it might be connected to or controlled by deities associated with earthquakes, such as Kashima-no-kami, who is believed to suppress the catfish to prevent disasters.

In its subterranean abode, Jishin-namazu is guarded by the god Takemikazuchi, enshrined at Kashima. Takemikazuchi restrains the catfish with a massive stone, but when his vigilance wanes, the Jishin-namazu thrashes, causing violent earthquakes. Despite its solitary nature, the catfish is thus intertwined with divine intervention to maintain the earth’s stability.

Other names

The Jishin-namazu, often referred to as the “earthquake fish” (jishin-no-uo), is depicted in ancient artwork not only as a catfish but also as a dragon-serpent hybrid, blending elements that evoke both fear and reverence. Its various names across Japan, such as “Nami-no-kawa-sama,” highlight regional interpretations and connections to rivers and waterways, habitats typical for catfish. These alternative names emphasize its dual identity as a mythical creature and a natural force. While Jishin-namazu is the most commonly used name for this earthquake-causing entity, it is also known as Namazu-no-Kami (catfish god) and sometimes simply as Namazu.

Powers and Abilities

The power of Jishin-namazu lies in its ability to trigger earthquakes with its movements beneath the earth’s surface. This association between catfish and seismic activity gained prominence in the 19th century, fueled by anecdotal accounts of catfish behaving unusually before earthquakes. Seismologists observed such behavior with significant accuracy, noting agitation in catfish before about 80% of earthquakes.

When Jishin-namazu stirs in its subterranean lair, its immense size and thrashing movements cause the land above to tremble violently, resulting in devastating earthquakes. Legends portray the catfish as a restless creature, sometimes seen as having control over water flow, influencing rainfall and water levels. Despite its destructive potential, Jishin-namazu was also regarded in some tales as a powerful entity capable of affecting natural elements beyond seismic events, reflecting its dual nature in Japanese folklore.

In response to the constant threat of Jishin-namazu, a powerful countermeasure was established in mythology. Responsibility for subduing the catfish fell to Takemikazuchi, the god of thunder, enshrined at Kashima Shrine in Ibaraki prefecture. Takemikazuchi is depicted as a fierce warrior who restrains Jishin-namazu with a massive stone known as the Kaname-ishi (keystone). When Takemikazuchi neglects his duty, the consequences are severe.

During the Great Ansei Earthquake of 1855, legend recounts that Takemikazuchi momentarily left his post, leaving the task to Ebisu, a lesser god associated with fishing and commerce. Ebisu proved unreliable, falling asleep and allowing Jishin-namazu to rampage, causing widespread destruction.

While divine intervention was the primary method of controlling Jishin-namazu, there were also efforts to appease the giant catfish. Shrines dedicated to Takemikazuchi held ceremonies to strengthen the god’s resolve and ensure vigilance. Interestingly, Jishin-namazu was not always perceived as purely malevolent; in some regions, rituals sought to appease it, aiming to avoid its wrath rather than outright subdue it.

Modern Day Influence

Jishin-namazu continues to exert significant influence on modern Japanese culture and society, particularly in earthquake-prone regions where seismic activity poses a constant threat. As a potent symbol, it reminds people of the delicate balance between humanity and the natural world, prompting efforts in earthquake preparedness and disaster mitigation. Its presence is pervasive in popular culture, appearing in traditional art, literature, and contemporary media. The catfish is prominently featured on earthquake awareness materials, educating the public about seismic risks and safety measures.

This enduring cultural relevance underscores Jishin-namazu not only as a mythical creature but also as a practical cultural icon with profound implications. An example of its influence can be seen at the Raiden Shrine in Gunma prefecture, where a sculpture of Namazu-san—a benevolent depiction—invites visitors to interact by wiping it for good luck, playing on Japanese homophones for “earthquake” and “confidence.” Despite its destructive potential, Jishin-namazu is also revered as a symbol of justice, reflecting the intricate dualities of existence itself.