Enchanted Initiate

Susanoo

Susanoo is from Japanese mythology, specifically Shinto tradition. He is the storm god and brother to the sun goddess Amaterasu.

Susanoo is often titled "Storm God" or "God of Storms and Seas" in Shinto mythology. He is also known as the brother of Amaterasu and Tsukuyomi, and holds the role of a powerful kami associated with storms, the sea, and purification.

Susanoo (also spelled Susano-o or Susanowo) is a powerful deity in Japanese Shinto mythology, known as the storm god and brother of the sun goddess Amaterasu and the moon god Tsukuyomi. He is associated with sea storms, chaos, purification, and heroic action.

Born from the nose of the creator god Izanagi, Susanoo is part of the central divine trio. He is known for his volatile nature, which led to conflicts with Amaterasu, causing disorder in the heavens. After being banished from heaven, Susanoo descended to the earthly realm of Izumo.

One of his most famous myths involves slaying the eight-headed serpent Yamata-no-Orochi. After defeating the serpent, he discovered the legendary sword Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi (originally Ame-no-Murakumo-no-Tsurugi) in its tail. This sword later became one of the Three Imperial Regalia of Japan.

Despite his chaotic traits, Susanoo is also revered as a cultural hero, protector, and bringer of fertility. He represents the transformative power of nature, where destruction clears the way for renewal. In spiritual practice, he embodies purification and overcoming negativity.

Shrines dedicated to Susanoo include Susa Shrine and Yasaka Shrine. He is still honored in rituals involving protection, exorcism, and safe travel.

Domain/Area of Influence

Susanoo, a deity in Japanese Shinto mythology, is primarily associated with storms, the sea, and chaos. He is also linked to purification and heroic deeds.

Attributes

Susanoo is a major kami (spirit) in Japanese mythology, particularly in Shinto. He is the storm god and brother of Amaterasu (sun goddess) and Tsukuyomi (moon god). **Personality:** – Impulsive and unpredictable – Emotional and passionate – Rebellious, yet capable of heroism – Sometimes destructive, yet also deeply honorable **Powers and Attributes:** – Control over storms and seas – Bringer of chaos and also a divine hero – Capable of slaying monstrous beings (e.g., the serpent Yamata-no-Orochi) – Purifies and transforms through trials and conflict **Symbols:** – Sword of Totsuka (or Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi), found in the slain serpent—later a symbol of divine authority – Storm clouds and ocean waves – Tori gates and shrines in his honor (e.g., Izumo Taisha) **Spiritual Significance:** – Represents the integration of shadow aspects into power – Embodies purification through conflict – A symbol of emotional depth and transformation through challenge

Symbolism

Susanoo, the Shinto storm god, symbolizes purification, transformation, and the chaotic yet necessary forces of change. In metaphysical terms, he represents the energetic disruption that clears stagnant patterns, making way for clarity and rebirth. His mythic battles with serpents and his exile mirror the inner struggle of the ego’s dissolution and the awakening of personal power through surrender and shadow integration. In jewellery symbolism, invoking Susanoo could involve motifs like waves, swords (such as the Kusanagi), or storm clouds—each representing protection, assertiveness, and the purifying power of nature. Wearing symbols of Susanoo may serve as a talisman for overcoming internal turmoil, invoking courageous truth-speaking, and catalyzing spiritual breakthroughs.

Shadow Aspect

Susanoo’s shadow aspect reflects his impulsiveness, emotional volatility, and destructive tendencies. As the storm god in Shinto mythology, his darker traits include uncontrollable rage, rebellion against order, and disregard for consequences—seen in his acts of violence and disruptive behavior in Amaterasu’s realm. These vices manifest as pride, jealousy, and the urge to dominate or prove superiority. His shadow challenges relate to learning humility, emotional regulation, and taking responsibility for one’s actions while integrating his chaotic nature into a more constructive expression of power.

Offerings

Susanoo, the Shinto storm god and brother of Amaterasu, is associated with the sea, storms, purification, and swordsmanship. Traditional offerings to Susanoo often reflect his nature and legends: 1. **Sake (rice wine)** – Symbolizes purification; tied to the myth where Susanoo defeats the eight-headed serpent Yamata no Orochi using sake. 2. **Rice and other grains** – Represent sustenance and prosperity. 3. **Salt and purified water** – Common Shinto offerings for cleansing and honoring kami. 4. **Fresh fish and sea products** – Reflect his connection to the sea. 5. **Swords or miniature sword offerings** – Connect to the myth where he finds the sword Kusanagi inside Orochi, which becomes a sacred imperial treasure. 6. **Prayers for protection, bravery, and strength** – As Susanoo embodies warrior and protector aspects. Offerings are traditionally placed at shrines dedicated to Susanoo, such as Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto.

Invocations

To work with Susanoo, the Shinto storm and sea deity, approach with deep respect and sincerity. Susanoo is dynamic, protective, and fierce, often associated with purification, courage, and overcoming chaos. 1. **Create a Sacred Space**: Cleanse your space with incense, salt, or water. Set a small altar with symbols like a sword (Kusanagi), water bowl, or seashells. 2. **Offerings**: Present offerings such as sake, water, rice, or sea salt. Traditional Japanese offerings are most appropriate. 3. **Invocation**: Speak aloud or in your heart, calling to Susanoo humbly. Use respectful language: *“Susanoo-no-Mikoto, noble kami of storm and strength, I invite your presence. Grant me courage, cleanse my path, and protect against chaos.”* 4. **Meditate or Journey**: Sit quietly and feel his presence. Visualize stormy seas or a powerful wind clearing obstacles. Listen for intuitive guidance. 5. **Close with Gratitude**: Thank Susanoo, pour out or bury offerings in nature, and maintain integrity and discipline in your life to honor his energy. Work with him in matters of cleansing, banishing, and spiritual strength, always acknowledging his wild and noble nature.

Related Deities

Susanoo, the Shinto storm god, is part of a divine triad with his siblings Amaterasu (sun goddess) and Tsukuyomi (moon god). He contrasts with Amaterasu—representing chaos and tempestuous energy versus her order and illumination. In broader mythological parallels: – **Similar deities**: – Thor (Norse) – storm and thunder god, forceful and protective. – Indra (Vedic) – storm and war god, slayer of serpents. – Set (Egyptian) – chaotic force and storms, though more antagonistic. – **Opposite archetypes**: – Amaterasu (his sister) – embodying light, harmony, and sovereignty, she often serves as a balancing counterpart to Susanoo’s wildness. – Quan Yin (Buddhist) or other compassion deities – representing peace and mercy. Susanoo embodies destructive and regenerative forces, bridging earth and sea realms, often acting as both disruptor and protector.