The difference between gods and shikigami

Both gods and shikigami are spiritual beings in Japanese religion and belief, but there are significant differences in their roles and nature.

Gods (kamigami)

Definition and role:

Gods (kamigami) are sacred beings in Japanese Shinto and Buddhism, and are said to control all aspects of natural phenomena and life. They are believed to have various powers, such as creation, protection, destruction, and prosperity.

Characteristics:

Sacredness and worship: Gods are revered as highly sacred beings and are enshrined in shrines and temples. People pray to them, hold festivals, and ask for their protection and blessings.

Diversity: Gods are diverse, and there are many gods that appear in Japanese myths and folklore, such as Amaterasu Omikami and Yaoyorozu no Kami.

Shikigami (Shikigami)

Definition and Role:

Shikigami (Shikigami) are spiritual beings used by sorcerers (Onmyoji) in Onmyodo. Shikigami mainly follow the commands of the sorcerer and perform specific tasks.

Characteristics:

Summoning and Serving: Shikigami are spiritual beings summoned and servited by sorcerers using specific rituals and spells. They often take the form of dolls or animals and move according to the will of the sorcerer.

Auxiliary Beings: Shikigami are not objects of worship, unlike gods, but serve as auxiliary beings to sorcerers. They assist sorcerers in spells and rituals, and are used to drive away evil spirits, gather information, attack enemies, etc.

Comparison

Worshiped or Served:

Gods: Beings that are worshiped and enshrined in shrines and temples.

Shikigami: Spiritual beings that are servited and summoned by sorcerers to perform specific tasks.

Roles and Functions:

Gods: Control all aspects of nature and life, and have powers such as creation, protection, and prosperity.

Shikigami: Support the sorcerer, and are used to carry out specific tasks.

Diversity and Forms:

Gods: There are many different kinds of gods, each with different aspects and powers.

Shikigami: Often take the form of dolls or animals, and are summoned through specific rituals and spells.

Summary

Gods and Shikigami are both important spiritual beings in Japanese faith, but there are significant differences in their nature and roles. Gods are objects of worship, sacred beings that control various aspects of nature and life. On the other hand, Shikigami are auxiliary spiritual beings used by sorcerers, and are summoned to carry out specific tasks. Understanding these differences can help us better understand the deeper world of traditional Japanese faith and spells.