Each of these objects has its relation to
place-names in Idzumo or to superstitions that are still extant. The
peaches and the rocks became gods, and on this incident, by which the
beings in Hades were prevented from advance and successful mischief on
earth, is founded one of the norito which Mr. Satow gives in condensed
form. The names of the three gods,[4] Youth and Maiden of the Many
Road-forkings, and Come-no-further Gate, are expressed and invoked in
the praises bestowed on them in connection with the offerings.
He (the priest) says: I declare in the presence of the sovran
gods, who like innumerable piles of rocks sit closing up the way
in the multitudinous road-forkings.... I fulfil your praises by
declaring your NAMES, Youth and Maiden of the Many Road-forkings
and Come-no-further Gate, and say: for the OFFERINGS set up that
you may prevent [the servants of the monarch] from being
poisoned by and agreeing with the things which shall come
roughly-acting and hating from the Root-country, the
Bottom-country, that you may guard the bottom (of the gate) when
they come from the bottom, guard the top when they come from the
top, guarding with nightly guard and with daily guard, and may
praise them--peacefully take the great OFFERINGS which are set
up by piling them up like a range of hills, that is to say,
providing bright cloth, etc.
Pages:
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
100
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110
111