Izanami
Quick Summary
Izanami is a central deity in Japanese Shintō creation myths. She and her brother-husband, Izanagi, were tasked with creating the first landmass by stirring the primordial ocean. Their initial attempt at union resulted in a deformed child, but after correcting a ritual error, they successfully created numerous islands and deities.
Tragically, Izanami died from burns sustained while giving birth to the fire god, Kagutsuchi. She descended to Yomi, the land of darkness. A grief-stricken Izanagi followed her, but she had already consumed the food of Yomi and could not return. When Izanagi discovered her decaying form, he fled, sealing the entrance to Yomi with a stone and permanently separating them.1
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