Tengu in the Archives: References to Tengu in Japanese

Welcome to the sample reference list for early and medieval Japanese sources exploring the captivating world of the Tengu. This compilation brings together a diverse array of ancient texts, historical accounts, and literary works that offer valuable insights into the origins, characteristics, and cultural significance of these mythical creatures deeply ingrained in Japanese folklore. Journey into the rich tapestry of Japanese mythology as you explore these references, which provide a glimpse into the fascinating world of the Tengu and their enduring presence in Japanese culture throughout the ages.

1. Nihon Shoki (720 AD): An ancient historical chronicle that includes a reference to Tengu, marking one of the earliest mentions of these mythical creatures in Japanese literature.

2. Konjaku Monogatarishū (c. 1120 AD): A collection of tales and narratives from the Heian period, which includes stories featuring Tengu and their interactions with humans.

3. Taketori Monogatari (The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter, 10th century): This famous Japanese folktale, dating back to the Heian period, mentions Tengu in the context of supernatural beings.

4. Uji Shūi Monogatari (The Tales of Uji, 12th century): A collection of tales and anecdotes from the Heian period that references Tengu in certain stories.

5. Heike Monogatari (The Tale of the Heike, 13th century): An epic account of the Genpei War, which includes the transformation of a defeated monk into a Tengu as a form of supernatural punishment.

6. Honchō Shokkan (The Mirror of the True Path of the Gods, 13th century): A compilation of stories and legends with religious and supernatural themes, featuring various encounters with Tengu.

7. Tsurezuregusa (Essays in Idleness, 14th century): A collection of essays by the Buddhist monk Yoshida Kenkō, which briefly mentions Tengu in one of the contemplative passages.

8. Taiheiki (The Chronicle of Great Peace, 14th century): An epic historical narrative that includes references to Tengu, often associated with auspicious or inauspicious events.

9. Setsuwa Bungaku (Collection of Tales, 13th-14th century): A genre of Japanese literature consisting of moral and didactic stories, where Tengu occasionally make appearances.

10. Noh and Kyōgen plays: Various Noh and Kyōgen plays from the 14th and 15th centuries feature Tengu as supernatural beings, including "Takasago" and "Aoi no Ue."

Kurama Tengu

References to Tengu in Japanese Buddhist Works

1. Shasekishū" (13th century): This collection of Zen Buddhist tales includes a story called "The Tengu's Feathered Fan." In this story, a Tengu challenges a Zen master named Rinzai to a spiritual contest, symbolizing the struggle between enlightenment and delusion.

2. "Zōga Hōki" (14th century): This text, attributed to the monk Kokan Shiren, mentions Tengu as malevolent beings that disrupt meditation and pose obstacles on the path to enlightenment. It advises practitioners to maintain concentration and ignore their distractions.

3. "Taiheiki" (14th century): This epic war chronicle features a story involving the renowned monk and military strategist, Benkei. It recounts an encounter where Benkei confronts a Tengu on the Gojo Bridge in Kyoto, engaging in a fierce battle of martial skills.

4. "Tengu Meigikō" (early 14th century): This collection of Tengu stories, which contains both secular and Buddhist themes, includes tales of Tengu interacting with Buddhist monks, often testing their spiritual strength and resolve.

5. "Shinpen Nihonkoku Genpō Zen'aku Ryōiki" (14th century): This compilation of Buddhist tales includes stories of Tengu appearing to individuals and offering teachings or guidance. They are portrayed as both disruptive and enlightening, symbolizing the challenges faced on the path to awakening.

These early references in Buddhist literature demonstrate the integration of Tengu into Buddhist beliefs and practices. They serve as metaphors for the internal struggles and obstacles encountered in spiritual cultivation, reminding practitioners to overcome delusions and strive for enlightenment.

References to Tengu in Mountains and Martial Prowess.

1. "Wakan Sansai Zue" (1713): This illustrated encyclopedia, compiled by Terajima Ryōan, contains a description of Tengu as creatures with bird-like features, including wings and beaks. It also mentions their association with mountains and their abilities in martial arts.

2. "Konjaku Monogatarishū" (late 12th century): This collection of tales includes stories that feature Tengu. One of the stories recounts the encounter between a hunter and a Tengu in the mountains, emphasizing the Tengu's supernatural abilities and its role as a guardian of the forests.

3. "Heike Monogatari" (late 12th century): This epic tale of the Genpei War mentions Tengu in relation to the warrior Minamoto no Yoshitsune. According to the legend, Yoshitsune, a skilled swordsman, was said to have received training from Tengu in the mountains.

4. "Tale of the Utsubo Wrestler" (early 13th century): This story portrays a wrestler who encounters a Tengu and engages in a wrestling match. The tale highlights the Tengu's strength and its ability to challenge and test human abilities.

5. "Tengu Meigikō" (early 14th century): This collection of Tengu-related stories provides various accounts of encounters between humans and Tengu. It explores their mischievous behavior, martial skills, and shape-shifting abilities.

These references illustrate the early origins of Tengu in Japanese literature and their association with mountains, martial prowess, and supernatural powers. As the centuries progressed, Tengu became a popular subject in folklore, theater, and various forms of artistic expression, solidifying their place in Japanese mythology and culture.