As the sun climbs to its zenith on this warm June day, the season of summer unfurls its golden embrace, with festivals like Litha and Midsummer calling us to bask in vitality, abundance, and the peak of solar power. During these celebrations, witches and pagans often turn to deities that embody the energies of heat, harvest, and the sun’s radiant strength. For me, summer is a time of fiery balance, where the divine masculine and feminine intertwine in a dance of light and life. I feel drawn to step into the sunlit fields, where the sun gods and harvest goddesses invite me to honor passion, prosperity, and the cycles of nature’s fullness. In this season, I’m captivated by the healing warmth of sunlight, the empowerment of creation, and the magic of abundance, as I listen to the whispers of the earth and reap the fruits of my intentions. Several deities rise to prominence, especially those tied to summer festivals or sacred days, offering a deep connection to their potent energies. Summer, spanning June, July, and August, is a pivotal time in pagan culture, brimming with magic, fertility, strength, and joy. Let’s wander through the sun-drenched landscapes, where fields glow and rivers shimmer, to pause, reflect, and commune with the rhythmic pulse of nature as we meet these deities together in this post today.
Ra – Egyptian God
Ra, the Egyptian sun god and creator, reigns supreme as the bringer of light and life. Depicted with a falcon head crowned by a solar disk, Ra sails his solar barque across the sky each day, battling the serpent Apophis to ensure the sun’s rise. In summer, his energy peaks, symbolizing power, protection, and the life-giving force of the sun. His cult centered at Heliopolis, and his association with the summer solstice makes him a guardian of abundance. Ra’s fiery presence invites us to harness solar strength, to create with confidence, and to protect our harvests. In Cancer season, his nurturing yet commanding energy aligns with the season’s warmth, urging us to shine brightly. If you would like to explore more with Ra read his post in the deity a day series inside the Patreon here.
Apollo – Greek God
Apollo, the Greek god of the sun, music, prophecy, and healing, embodies the brilliance of summer. Often shown with a lyre and laurel wreath, Apollo drives the sun chariot across the sky, his golden rays blessing the earth. His oracle at Delphi thrived in summer, a time when his prophetic gifts shone. Apollo’s energy is vibrant and creative, encouraging us to pursue art, heal through music, and seek divine wisdom. In Cancer season, his nurturing light aligns with summer’s growth, inspiring us to balance strength with sensitivity as we’ve explored in recent lunar guides. If you would like to explore more with Apollo read his post in the deity a day series inside the Patreon here!
Lugh – Celtic God
Lugh, the Celtic god of light, craftsmanship, and skill, shines during the summer, particularly at Lughnasadh in August. Depicted with a spear and radiant aura, Lugh is a master of all arts, a warrior, and a bringer of harvest abundance. His festival celebrates the first fruits, honoring his role in sustaining life. Lugh’s energy is dynamic and skillful, urging us to hone our talents, celebrate our labor, and embrace the sun’s gifts. In Leo season, his bold creativity aligns with summer’s peak, encouraging us to lead with passion and purpose. If you would like to explore more with Lugh read his post in the deity a day series inside the Patreon here!
Helios – Greek God
Helios, the personification of the sun in Greek mythology, drives his four-horse chariot across the sky, illuminating the world. Depicted with a radiant crown, Helios sees all from his solar perch, a witness to human deeds. In summer, his constant presence blesses the earth with heat and growth, making him a deity of vitality and observation. His energy inspires us to embrace the sun’s life force, to see clearly, and to thrive in its light. In Leo season, Helios’ bold radiance aligns with the season’s fiery intensity, urging us to shine authentically.
Surya – Hindu God
Surya, the Hindu solar deity, is the source of life and energy, riding a chariot drawn by seven horses. Depicted with a radiant halo, Surya brings health, vitality, and enlightenment. In summer, his energy peaks, offering blessings of strength and spiritual growth, celebrated during festivals like Chhath Puja. Surya’s warmth invites us to cultivate inner light, heal through solar energy, and connect with the divine. In Virgo season, his disciplined radiance aligns with summer’s harvest, encouraging us to refine our intentions.
Horus – Egyptian God
Horus, the Egyptian sky and sun god, embodies protection and kingship, often depicted as a falcon or with a falcon head. His right eye, the Eye of Horus, symbolizes the sun and wholeness, restored after his battle with Set. In summer, Horus’ solar energy strengthens, offering protection and clarity. His energy empowers us to rise above challenges, protect our path, and embrace leadership. In Virgo season, his precision aligns with summer’s focus, urging us to guard our harvest with wisdom.
Tonatiuh – Aztec God
Tonatiuh, the Aztec sun god, sustains the world with his daily journey, requiring human sacrifice to rise. Depicted with a solar disk and clawed hands, Tonatiuh represents life, death, and renewal. In summer, his energy intensifies, blessing the earth with heat and demanding respect. His power inspires us to honor sacrifice, embrace transformation, and thrive under the sun’s gaze. In Libra season, his balanced intensity aligns with summer’s harmony, urging us to find equilibrium in strength.
Amaterasu – Japanese Goddess
Amaterasu, the Japanese sun goddess and ruler of the heavenly plain, brings light and order. Depicted emerging from a cave with a mirror, her radiance restores the world after her withdrawal. In summer, her energy peaks, offering harmony, prosperity, and divine protection. Her presence encourages us to shine our inner light, cultivate peace, and nurture community. In Libra season, her balanced grace aligns with summer’s fullness, urging us to foster harmony. If you would like to explore more with Amaterasu read my FREE guide here!
Hathor – Egyptian Goddess
Hathor, the Egyptian goddess of love, music, and the sun, nurtures with her golden light. Depicted with cow horns and a sun disk, Hathor brings joy, fertility, and protection. In summer, her energy flourishes, blessing harvests and celebrations. Her warmth invites us to embrace love, creativity, and abundance. In Cancer season, her nurturing essence aligns with summer’s care, encouraging us to tend our emotional gardens.
Sekhmet – Egyptian Goddess
Sekhmet, the Egyptian lioness goddess of war and the sun, embodies fierce solar power. Depicted with a lion head, she brings healing through destruction. In summer, her energy intensifies, offering strength and purification. Her fire inspires us to conquer obstacles and heal through transformation. In Leo season, her bold might aligns with summer’s peak, urging us to harness our inner warrior. If you would like to explore more with Sekhmet read my FREE guide here!
Freyja – Norse Goddess
Freyja, the Norse goddess of love, beauty, and the sun, shines with golden energy. Depicted with a falcon cloak, she rules over fertility and seiðr magic. In summer, her presence blesses harvests and passion. Her warmth encourages us to embrace love, beauty, and magical power. In Leo season, her radiant confidence aligns with summer’s fire, urging us to lead with heart. If you would like to explore more with Freya read her post inside the deity a day series in Patreon here!
Sunna – Norse Goddess
Sunna, the Norse personification of the sun, drives her chariot across the sky. Depicted with a radiant halo, she brings light and warmth. In summer, her energy peaks, offering vitality and joy. Her presence inspires us to bask in life’s brightness and share warmth. In Virgo season, her disciplined light aligns with summer’s harvest, encouraging us to refine our joy.
Aine – Celtic Goddess
Aine, the Celtic goddess of summer, love, and sovereignty, radiates with solar energy. Depicted with a crown of stars, she rules over crops and passion. In summer, her energy blesses harvests and romance. Her light invites us to claim our power and love freely. In Virgo season, her nurturing sovereignty aligns with summer’s care, urging us to tend our dreams. If you would like to explore more with Aine read her post in the deity a day series inside the Patreon here!
Saule – Baltic Goddess
Saule, the Baltic sun goddess, weaves light and life. Depicted with a golden spinning wheel, she blesses the earth with warmth. In summer, her energy peaks, offering prosperity and protection. Her radiance encourages us to spin our destinies with joy. In Libra season, her balanced light aligns with summer’s harmony, urging us to find peace in abundance.
Hestia – Greek Goddess
Hestia, the Greek goddess of the hearth and home, shines with a gentle solar flame. Depicted with a sacred fire, she brings warmth and stability. In summer, her energy nurtures family and community. Her presence invites us to tend our inner fire and create sanctuary. In Libra season, her balanced warmth aligns with summer’s fullness, encouraging harmony.
How to Connect to and Work with These Deities
Every connection with deities is unique, a personal dance between your spirit and their essence. You might see them as guides, archetypes, or energies to learn from—your practice is your own. Approach them with respect, gratitude, and a willingness to build a relationship, for the energy you invest returns tenfold. Explore my shop for an eBook on deity work or the Deep Deity Devotionals workshop to deepen your journey!
Research their myths and legends to forge a stronger bond.
Refresh your altar with their correspondences—sunflowers for Ra, amber for Saule.
Cast spells for strength, abundance, or creativity, inviting their guidance.
Use divination like tarot or scrying with solar water for insights. Join the patreon at patreon.com/themysticmysteries for tarot drawings daily and weekly tips!
Incorporate their energy into protection spells for home or harvest.
Craft spell jars with their symbols, placing them in sunlight to charge.
Engage in shadow work on power and growth, with resources in my shop.
Invite them into Litha rituals, honoring the sun’s peak.
Practice solar magic with flower crowns for Aine or Freyja.
Walk mindfully in sunlit fields to connect with their domains.
Brew teas with summer herbs like mint to honor their vitality.
Carve their sigils into candles for fire magic during Midsummer. Join my patreon as a paid member and get access to my downloadable grimoire pages!
Purify with solar-charged water or oils tied to their essence.
Plant seeds with their sigils for abundance spells.
Make rose or sunflower water for offerings to Hathor or Apollo.
Use oils with their correspondences in rituals for power or love.
Bake with honey or fruits, adding their sigils for joy.
Offer sunflowers or gold to manifest their blessings.
Add their sigils to talismans or charms for protection.
Leave offerings of bread or wine to connect with harvest deities.
Carve their sigils into garden stakes for growth blessings.
Invoke them in commitment rites for summer projects.
Draw their sigils on mirrors for glamour magic.
Use their prayers in rituals for strength or prosperity.
Invite them into meditations for guidance on your path.
Wear their colors—gold for Helios, red for Sekhmet.
Journal signs of their presence, like a falcon for Horus.
Use their images in beauty or power spells.
Practice solar gazing or scrying for divine messages.
Create sun wheels for ongoing summer blessings.
Add their symbols to Midsummer decorations.
Leave a place for them at solstice gatherings.
Meditate in sunlit gardens to hear their wisdom.
Call on them for creative spells in summer projects.
Volunteer at harvest festivals to align with their energy.
Use their sigils in transformation spells for growth.
Journey with their animal guides, like a lion for Sekhmet.
Bless tools with their solar or fire energy.
Write prayers or songs to honor and venerate them.
Live their philosophies—shine, nurture, transform.
Integrate them into summer goals like crafting or gardening.
Visit sacred sites like temples for Ra or groves for Lugh.
Add their images to solstice rituals or altars.
Wear jewelry with their symbols for daily connection.
Tattoo or draw their sigils to embody their power.
Perform a dedication rite during their potent season.
I am Kayreign, the Divine Oracle of the Gods and Keeper of Mysteries, a solitary grey magic practitioner with over 15 years of experience walking the sacred paths of the unseen. As a mystic and relentless seeker of all knowledge, I weave together the threads of every magical tradition—light and dark, ancient and modern—to uncover the universal truths that bind us to the cosmos. My mission is to restore and re-enchant magic in this realm, igniting its spark in every soul I encounter, and guiding you to embrace the full spectrum of your being.
My work is rooted in the power of duality, honoring the dance between shadow and light as equal partners in your spiritual journey. I hold space for you to explore all magic paths and practices, drawing from the vast tapestry of mystical wisdom to help you uncover your unique magic and sacred contracts. As the Divine Oracle of the Gods, I channel divine insights to illuminate your path; as the Keeper of Mysteries, I guide you into the depths of the unknown, where true transformation awaits.
When you work with me, you’ll learn to live in energetic balance, embracing your darkness as a source of power, not just a stepping stone to the light. I’ll hold up a mirror to reflect your authentic self—unmasked, raw, and whole—inviting you to face your past wounds, traumas, and hurts with courage. Together, we’ll alchemize every chapter of your story, dark and light, into a blazing internal flame that lights your way on even the coldest nights. Through this process, you’ll find alignment with your purpose, release what holds you back, and step fully into your power.
Come join me for community, knowledge, and to restore the enchantment of magic in yourself and life today!
Explore my offerings—personalized shadow work sessions, womb healing, eBooks for self-guided growth, Tarot readings for divine guidance, and more—in my shop. Let’s journey together into the mysteries, where duality becomes your greatest ally, and magic becomes your birthright
Amaterasu is the primary deity of the Shinto religion in Japanese mythology, revered as the goddess of the sun, universe, and creation itself, and considered the highest manifestation of the spirit of the universe. As the source of all light, life, and creation, the sun goddess sustains heaven and earth with a light so compelling that her father appointed her ruler of the universe when he first laid eyes on her.
As the embodiment of the sun, she assimilates all of its qualities and provides comfort and assurance to all those who look to her for guidance and protection. Having served as the mother of the imperial family she is revered as the goddess of the state, and is both nurturing and maternal.
Born from the drops of water that fell from his face, Amaterasu is deeply connected to mirrors, which are seen as sacred objects that contain a sliver of her spirit. Her blessings permeate many aspects of Japanese life, from protecting warriors in battle to ensuring bountiful harvests. Revered throughout history, even the imperial family claims descent from Amaterasu. Her benevolent light continues to guide the Japanese people through dark times. Let me shine her illuminating light for you to see and learn all that her rays touch and influence in your life!
Who is Amaterasu?
She has a shimmering aura that spreads across the skies and touches all corners of the world. Amaterasu signifies a new day with hope, energy, and growth. From the moment of her creation Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess of Japanese mythology, was said to be so radiant that she illuminated both heaven and earth. Goddess Amaterasu is the Goddess of the Sun worshiped in Japan.
Possessing the rising sun as a symbol, every morning she is greeted by the people through prayers. Amaterasu is one of the main Goddesses of Shinto. In Shinto it is common for Goddesses and Gods to be called “Kami”, therefore it is common to see the name Amaterasu-ōmikami which means something close to “Great” Kami that illuminates the heavens.”
Goddess Amaterasu is described as a radiant and kind Goddess who brings light, joy, and prosperity to her people. Her femininity and nurturance blend with her forceful solar nature. Her influence extends beyond physical aspects; she is linked to enlightenment, wisdom, and artistic inspiration. She is also credited with first using silkworms and looms for weaving.
She is the daughter of the divine creators of the world, Izanami and Izanagi, and she has two brothers: Tsukuyomi, the God of the Moon, and Susanoo, the God of Storms and seas. It was written that Amaterasu had painted the landscape with her siblings to create ancient Japan.
Amaterasu, Japan’s sun goddess of legend, is known for her powerful and benevolent ways. One story tells of her brother’s misdeeds causing her to retreat into a cave, and the other gods’ plan to coax her out again, resulting in the birth of dance and music which we will talk about later.
The radiant god is believed to be the ancestor of Japan’s imperial family, and her divine power is said to have been passed down through generations. She is associated with Shintoism, Japan’s native religion, with sunlight representing purity and enlightenment.
A sacred mirror reflects her true form and is venerated in Shinto shrines throughout Japan. It symbolizes truth and self-reflection, encouraging us to embrace our own radiance and divinity. Amaterasu has played a fundamental role in Japan’s culture, from ancient times to today. Her influence runs deep, becoming part of the country’s collective identity.
What does she look like?
Amaterasu is a revered deity known for her ethereal beauty and enchanting presence. Often depicted as graceful, the sun goddess has long, lustrous black hair, radiant skin, and bright eyes. Her attire consists of flowing kimonos crafted from the finest silks and satins. Such richly detailed depictions of the goddess have helped to cement her place as one of the most beloved and celebrated figures in Japanese folklore and culture.
Ruler of the higher celestial plane
Amaterasu is also known for her role as the ruler of the Higher Celestial Plane. In this realm, she was responsible for bringing light to the world through the sun that she embodied. Amaterasu is the rising and setting sun: without her, all forms of life would cease to exist. As ruler of the heavens, she governs over all spirits (kami), and her divine powers brought about the cultivation of rice and wheat: she is also credited with first using silkworms and looms for weaving. Amaterasu’s role as the ruler of heaven is to ensure the continuity of life by maintaining order.
Her tie to the imperial state
The Japanese monarchy is regarded as the oldest continuous hereditary monarchy in the world, with its roots extending all the way back to the 7th century BC. Like many other ancient monarchies, the Emperors of Japan trace their ancestry to a divine source, though it may be said that there are certain differences between the divinity of the Japanese Emperor and those of other rulers who claimed divinity.
It is said that the first emperors of Japan were direct descendants of Amaterasu. It is believed that Amaterasu sent her grandson Jimmu to Earth 3,000 years ago to be the first ruler of Japan, beginning the divine family of Japanese emperors. Even her sacred sword (Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi), her jewel (Yasakani in the Magatama) and her mirror (Yata no Kagami), the goddess’s main symbol, are still guarded to this day as Imperial Treasures.
Goddess of creation
Amaterasu is believed to be one of the oldest gods. She played an important role in creating Japan and its people. Her divine light illuminated the world and caused many phenomena. Amaterasu is the rising and setting sun: without her, all forms of life would cease to exist. As ruler of the heavens, she governs over all spirits (kami), and her divine powers brought about the cultivation of rice and wheat.
Amaterasu The spiritual guide
Amaterasu is the spiritual guide and protector of the Japanese people. Many festivals are held in her honor. She symbolizes hope, prosperity, and purity. She gets this role because of her incredibly high status as the kami of the higher celestial plane. Since this is said to be a realm she has domain over it would of course make her the spiritual guide to the people.
Amaterasu and duality
Since I am a grey witch and live in the liminal spaces every single deity I work with I look for how they can connect to duality. How do they represent the universal concept of duality that every being is meant to achieve in the universe. I feel with light deities this gets overlooked often and is much more focused on with dark deities. Amaterasu does this very well, in the fact that she is the sun that can both bring and sustain all life and it can smother it and snuff it out. If you think about it we as humans love the sun and NEED it to survive but, our bodies aren’t really made for it either. Our skin burns, we sweat, and we can only tolerate low heats of it.
The same thing with her being a deity of light. Light can illuminate and shine brightly to allow us to see. It can also shine so brightly It can blind us and send us off in the direction. She also does this by being the kami to embody all of the universe. How can she encompass all of the universe and she not be steeped in duality?
Amaterasu and the Divine feminine
The myth of the Goddess Amaterasu emphasizes female power. The absence of the Goddess and the resulting aridity and darkness of the world demonstrate the importance of the woman, who must be respected, recognized and honored as a source of life and energy. You also see her importance with the divine feminine in being a solar deity and her simply being a goddess. It is common across cultures especially in the west and after christianity that the sun is represented as a masculine energy with a god.
Her Association with Other Elements of Nature
Amaterasu is not only the goddess of the sun, but also holds significance in the association with other elements of nature. In Japanese mythology, she is responsible for sending forth the four winds and for creating the typhoons that are prevalent in Japan.
She is also associated with the regulation of the tides, agriculture, and rainfall. These associations with natural elements have given Amaterasu significant power in shaping the lives and culture of the Japanese people.
Mythology and stories
The birth of Amaterasu
According to the beliefs of the Shinto religion, Amaterasu is the child of Izanami and Izanagi, the two primordial gods responsible for the creation of the Japanese islands. Izanami is recognized as ‘she who invites,’ while Izanagi is known as ‘he who invites.’ Amaterasu’s birth is shrouded in myth, with multiple versions of the story found in Japanese sacred texts. The Nihon Shoki includes two versions of the tale, while the Kojiki or Furukotofum contains the most widely accepted account of her conception
The Nihon Shoki
The Nihon Shoki, or Chronicles of Japan, is a highly esteemed history book that dates back to classical Japan. As the second-oldest text in Japanese history, it is more detailed and comprehensive than its predecessor, the Kojiki. Its value to historians stems from the fact that it contains the most extensive historical records of ancient Japanese history. Along with this, it also includes a collection of myths about the origins of Japan and a genealogy of the Imperial family.
In the Nihongi, there are two versions of the origins of Amaterasu. In the first version, the divine beings Izanagi and Izanami no Mikoto are said to have descended from heaven and created Japan’s islands, mountains, rivers, and seas. They were, however, most concerned with bringing forth the high Kami who would rule over all these lands. First, they brought forth Amaterasu Omikami, who emanated light from every horizon. In their joy, the divine parents sent the child to heaven to reign over the highest celestial plain (Takama No Hara). Following Amaterasu’s ascent to heaven, Tsukiyomi no Mikoto, the Moon Kami, came into existence and was sent to join Amaterasu as her brother and husband, Soon after, her brother Susano-O no Mikoto, the Storm Kami, was created and sent to control the seas.
In the second version of the myth found in the Nihongi, the divine progenitor is solely named Izanagi (“Amaterasu – New World Encyclopedia” 2019). In this particular narrative, Izanagi desired to create a deity worthy of governing the universe. After careful consideration, he took hold of a white-copper mirror in his left hand and created Amaterasu Omikami. Then he took another mirror of the same material in his right hand and used it to produce Tsukiyomi no Mikoto. Lastly, Izanagi turned his head and looked askance, leading to the emergence of Susano-O.
The Kojiki
The Kojiki, also known as the Furukotofumi or “Records of Ancient Matters,” is a priceless artifact that provides valuable insights into the ancient history of Japan. It was compiled during the first half of 680 C.E. at the command of Emperor Temmu and remains the oldest surviving book of its kind.
According to the Kojiki, the final and most widely accepted version of Amaterasu’s birth involves Izanagi and Izanami creating the islands of Japan and the entire natural universe. That is until Kagu-Tsuchi’s birth. Unfortunately, upon emerging from his mother’s womb, Kagu-Tsuchi singed his mother, causing Izanami to become gravely wounded. Despite attempts to save her, Izanami ultimately succumbed to her injuries and passed away. Amid his grief, Izanagi sought to retrieve his beloved Izanami from Yomi, the underworld. With a heavy heart, he journeyed to the land of the dead and searched for her. However, upon finding her, he was devastated to discover that her flesh was decaying and covered in maggots. Despite his desperate pleas, Izanami could not leave the realm of the dead and return with him to the world above.
Barely escaping Yomi, Izanagi went to purify himself and bathed in a nearby river, cleansing himself of any remnants of the underworld that may have clung to him. As he washed his face, something miraculous occurred. When he rinsed his left eye, a radiant figure emerged – Amaterasu, the goddess of the sun. Overcome with wonder and amazement, Izanagi continued to wash his face. Soon after, he rinsed his right eye, and then Tsukiyomi no Mikoto, the god of the moon, emerged. Finally, as he rinsed his nose, Susano-O no Mikoto, the god of storms, appeared before him. As a result of great sorrow and loss, three mighty deities emerged, each representing a distinct aspect of the natural world.
Amaterasu hides inside the Ama-no-Iwato
The main story involving Goddess Amaterasu Goddess tells when she hid in a cave due to sadness. According to Kojiki, the main book that tells the Shinto myth of creation, Susanoo caused many problems and, for that reason, he was expelled from the skies. The main problem he caused greatly upset Amaterasu, let me tell it below.
There was a long-standing rivalry between Amaterasu and her other brother, Susanoo. When he was to leave Heaven by order of Izanagi, he went to bid his sister goodbye. Amaterasu was suspicious, but when Susanoo proposed a challenge to prove his sincerity, she accepted. Each of them took an object of the other’s and from it birthed gods and goddesses. Amaterasu birthed three women from Susanoo’s sword while he birthed five men from her necklace. Claiming the gods were hers because they were born of her necklace, she decided that she had won the challenge.
The two were content for a time, but her brother became restless and went on a rampage, destroying Amaterasu’s rice fields, hurling a flayed pony at her loom, and killing one of her attendants in a fit of rage. Amaterasu, who was in fury and grief, hid inside the Ama-no-Iwato (“heavenly rock cave”), thus effectively hiding the sun for a long period of time. The world, without the illumination of the sun, became dark.
The fields begin to die, the vegetation does not grow anymore, the cold takes over everything. Not even the Gods can reverse the situation. No one can persuade Amaterasu to leave the cave. Fearing eternal darkness, the God of Wisdom Omoikane has a great idea. The Gods organized a party at the entrance of the cave. A mirror was raised so Amaterasu could see her own reflection.
Goddess Uzume began to dance. She was so happy dancing that she ended up losing her clothes, exposing her breasts. She then says that the Gods have found another Goddess as beautiful and radiant as Amaterasu. Then she recites the verses:
Hito futa miyo. Itsu muyu nana. Ya koko no tari. Momo chi yorodzu. Which means: Gods, look at the entrance to the cave. The Majesty appears! Rejoice! Our hearts are happy. Look at my breasts and my limbs.
Listening to the noise and laughter of the other gods, Amaterasu decides to spy out of the cave. Seeing her image reflected in the mirror, and dazzled by her own beauty, Amaterasu emerges from the cave. She was received with songs of praise and let herself be carried back to her golden palace, illuminating the world again. This story is also thought to be the birth of dance and music.
Amaterasu and Tsukuyomi: The legend of night and day
Another important story involving the Goddess Amaterasu is found in the Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan). Tlegend begins with Tsukuyomi and Amaterasu serving as the deities of heaven as husband and wife. One day, Uke Mochi, the goddess of food, invited Amaterasu over for a feast: not being able to go, Amaterasu sent Tsukuyomi instead.
Tsukuyomi meets Ukemochi and she prepares a banquet for him, creating all her food through her mouth. Tsukuyomi finds everything very disgusting and kills Ukemochi, leaving Amaterasu deeply saddened. Since then, Amaterasu and Tsukuyomi are no longer together.After their separation, the sun goddess Amaterasu and the moon god Tsukuyomi took control of the sky separately, one illuminating the day while the other cast a soft glow over the night.
Festivals And Rituals
A leading figure in Japanese spiritual and cultural traditions, Amaterasu’s legacy endures to this day. Many devotees seek blessings and guidance from the Goddess through many shrines and temples across Japan.
The Grand Shrine of Ise is the most prominent shrine dedicated to Amaterasu in Ise, Mie, in western Honshū. The shrine is believed to enshrine the body of Amaterasu, and it is considered the holiest site for Shintoists. It is customary to rebuild the Inner Shrine at Isé every twenty years as per Shinto tradition, ensuring that it remains pure and new. Visitors worship outside the southern gate, while only priests and members of the imperial family can enter the innermost sanctum. It is customary for Shinto believers to make a pilgrimage to the shrine at least once in their lifetime.
There are also other significant shrines that worship Amaterasu, such as the Amanoiwato Shrine and the Atsuta Shrine.The Amanoiwato Shrine is located in the cave where Amaterasu famously hid during the story of her retreat, while the Atsuta Shrine is believed to house the sword that was passed down from Amaterasu’s grandson, Ninigi.
Amaterasu’s importance to Japanese history is evident in the imperial regalia of Japan, which have been passed down from her grandson Ninigi. These three artifacts – a mirror, a sword, and a jewel – are believed to be the symbols of the Japanese imperial family and their rule.
The mirror is said to represent wisdom, the sword bravery, and the jewel benevolence. The regalia are kept in the Tokyo Imperial Palace and only brought out for coronations and other important rituals.
In Japan, there are annual street processions to honor Amaterasu on July 17th and a winter solstice celebration on December 21st: commemorating Amaterasu’s emerging from the cave, bringing light and warmth back into the world.
Correspondences
First, what is a correspondence? A correspondence is an item or symbol that is meant to connect you to a specific energy thru it’s representation. It is seen also as an item to respect, honor, and venerate that energy as well whether it be a deity, an archetype energy , or the zodiac energy the moon is currently in like I will list below for you to use.
Planet- The sun, Higher celestial plane, the universe
Animal-The raven and white wolf, horses, snakes, sometimes kitsunes but most often they are connected to Inari okami
Element- Fire, but she is uniquely connected to all elements
Sex- Feminine
Symbol- Sun, Rooster, Crow, Pheasant, Raven, Mirror, Sword, infinity symbol
colors- Yellow, Gold, Orange, Red
Themes- sun, higher celestial plane, the universe, queen of the kami, light, the imperial family, The nation of japan, joy, happiness, laughter, dance, vitality, energy, protection, wisdom, strength, nourishment, purity, health, abundance, radiation, unity, blessings, community, and kinship.
This beautiful Goddess will bring the joy back to your life. Helping you find joy in all aspects of your life, helping you to laugh and have fun. She will help you relax and enjoy the little things in life and just be in the moment. Call on her when you are feeling overwhelmed and worried or feeling down and she will bring some spark back into you. Helping you see the bright side of things and to give you a powerful boost of shining light, shining joy and lots of laughter!
Ways to work with Amaterasu
Everyone’s relationship with deities is different and we all work with and believe in them differently. You might believe in multiple gods and goddesses and work with them each as though they are close, personal friends. Or maybe you believe the old gods are reflections of Universal energy and simply archetype energies that you can learn a lesson from. However you incorporate deities in your practice is up to you. But here are our ideas to get you started. To work with Amaterasu, it’s important to approach her with respect, reverence, gratitude and by building a relationship with her.
Study, get to know her
As with every deity I have ever written about or taught about, The first way to get to know a deity, specifically a goddess like Amaterasu is to study all you can about her. Read more about the myths we went over above, learn about the other kami connected to her, look at the brilliant art she is the centerpiece of throughout centuries, study the culture and religion she is central to;Japan and shintoism. When working with a deity it is all about building a true relationship with them and you do this first by getting to know who they are.
Create a Kamindana in your home to connect to and honor her
To add her to your home and to create a sacred space to go and meet with her you can create a kamidana dedicated to her. A kamidana is a miniature Shinto shrine designed for home worship. It is very similar to having an altar dedicated to any of the deities I have talked about before. You can learn how to create a kamidana to add to your home for her in my previous blog post here; https://modgepodgemystic.com/shintoism-the-way-of-the-kami/
Offerings
Everyone likes receiving presents. Amaterasu is no different, especially since she is such a revered deity and so central to every part of Japanese life and culture. You don’t have to give her offerings every day, but when you feel it is appropriate. You can place these offerings at your kamidana or when performing any work to connect to her like meditation, prayer, and visualization.
The best offerings for Amaterasu include:
Rice crackers
cooked rice dyed with saffron
paper origami figures
Grain or rice as an offering, inside a brass or gold offering dish/bowl
A magick mirror dedicated to Amaterasu
Sandalwood oil
A special cloth, like silk
Greet her at sunrise
Amaterasu is everywhere through the sunlight. Even on cloudy days, she graced the earth with her warmth and kindness. There is no need to summon a Goddess who is already so present among us, but it is common to greet her at sunrise and reflect her light with a mirror through the rooms of the house letting her enter the rooms to bring peace, energy and life. Otherwise your greeting can be as simple as giving a respectful bow and clapping. How to do this; at first, bow twice to greet the kami. Then clap twice, and make a pray with your both hands together. At last, bow again to show gratitude towards the deity.
Mirror Guidance
Another way of summoning the Goddess can be done at times when you wish advice from the Goddess. For being the Goddess of the Sun, Amaterasu can light up your mind and overshadow illusions that may be blocking your path. To do this ritual, first, take a mirror. It can be any mirror you have in your home or a mirror that you want to use especially for these occasions. Bow before the mirror, greeting the Goddess as the Japanese do. Then look into your own eyes and call Amaterasu eight times, the number of infinity. Concentrate and listen to the words of the Goddess.
To learn how to work with mirrors more in your life to connect to here you can watch my previous class all about mirror magic below!
Sunbathing
Obviously Amaterasu is a solar goddess and therefore she enjoys warmth, sunlight, and hot climates. So why not get out in the sun and do a little sunbathing? It feels great, gives you energy, and allows you to soak up the magical energy the sun has to offer us humans as the vital energy of our existence.
Perform solar magic
Like we just talked about, Amaterasu is a solar goddess so a very obvious way to connect to and work with her would be performing and working with any kind of solar magic. There are so many different ways to work with solar magic and the sun from meditating under its bright rays, making sun water, drawing down the sun and more. To learn all about solar magic and connecting to the sun and how to do so you can read about it here in my previous blog post; https://modgepodgemystic.com/solar-magic-a-guide-to-harness-the-bright-vibrant-and-confident-magical-energy-of-the-sun/
Call on her for abundance
Since, Amaterasu is the deity of the sun, and the reason we have all sustenance to survive and thrive as humans she is amazing to work with for abundance! Call on her when doing any abundance spells, working or rituals for a more boosted and amplified affect. To learn how to work with the energy of abundance you can read all about it in my guide here; https://modgepodgemystic.com/all-about-the-magic-of-abundance-prosperity-and-good-fortune/
Meditation, visualization and Dream work
One of the best ways to channel divine energy and tap into goddesses like Amaterasu is through meditation, visualization and dreaming. These practices allow you to open up and receive/ connect to divine energy in a very intuitive, clear, and transformative way. You will find a plethora of guided meditations on YouTube that will lead you to your spirit guide or god/goddess.. Try those if you have a hard time meditating on your own. I have many classes on youtube as well on previous deities you can watch where I even summon and guide you to them in sacred space. In addition, ask Amaterasu to visit you in your dreams and teach you lessons that you currently need to learn. Then record every encounter with her in your journal, book of shadows, or grimoire.
Meditation to connect with Amaterasu Omikami
Light some incense, maybe a candle and close your eyes. Take three deep breaths, relaxing your whole body. Hold your intention in connecting to Amaterasu Omikami. You could say this in your head three times, ‘My intention is to connect with Amaterasu Omikami.’
Imagine you are in the middle of a field and its just before dawn. There is high grass around you with meadow flowers. Light is starting to show on the horizon and you can see that far off in the distance there are trees. You sit down and watch the light get stronger and then the sun starts to rise. You say Amaterasu Omikami I wish to connect with you, please connect. The sun then rises high in the sky and shines down on you with so much light and warmth. You hear a voice ‘I am Amaterasu Omikami. You are my shining light just as I am yours. I will help you to balance your energies and bring you joy. You can call on me when ever you need, for I am a Mother to you and I will help you and comfort you.’ You then talk to Amaterasu Omikami.
When you have finished your conversation with Amaterasu Omikami, you thank her and know you can contact her any time. The sun sets and the day turns to night. When you are ready, take three deep breaths and come back to the room.
Write down your experience. What was Amaterasu Omikami like? What message did she have for you? Did she answer your questions? What did she look like? What was the gift she gave you?
Prayers
One very powerful way to connect to a deity is through prayer. It is common in Japan for Devotees to utter heartfelt prayers to Amaterasu to receive her bountiful blessings of prosperity, health, and guidance.
“I honor you, Amaterasu. I ask you to turn your light upon me. I honor you with this piece of silk (or jewelry) and ask that it become a talisman of power. Goddess of the sun, bless me.”
The most well known prayer to Amaterasu no Omikoto. It goes like this:
Lovely Lady of the Heaven’s Goddess and Guardian of the Japan People. Amaterasu, with Awe we see your beauty Rise.Tranquil Queen of Heaven When I look up to the Royal Sky I see thee Shining in Great Glory. behind a screen of Clouds, The Sun Amaterasu, For Thousands of ages Your Children have served you. As your Brillant light did shine, Now in their Hour of Greatest Need, We ask you to shine the full measure of your blessing on your children, May it shine from each Bosom, and Shrine. May it shine from each home, and each field. May it shine forth from each child you touch. Amaterasu, may the children of your children remember this moment with Awe, and sing your name with great Praise. Let them look heavenward and sing For Thousands of ages may she shine. For Thousands of ages may we serve her. May we serve her with reverence.May we serve her with Love
Move your body through Dance
Amaterasu is a solar deity, and the kami of the entire universe which makes her a very vital goddess. What better way to connect to vitality than by getting up and moving our bodies? To connect to her more directly, do this through dancing to honor one of the popular myths which credit the birth of dance and music in Japan to her.
Light work and Energy work
Since Amaterasu is a solar deity, a light deity, and the kami of the universe and higher celestial plane she is one of the best goddesses to call on when working with your own energy, the energy of the environment around you, and the universe as whole. She has the ability to guide you to your higher self, your sacred contracts and the divine in a very intense and illuminating way. Unlike when working with a dark goddess and being shown your shadows she illuminates the brightest and best part of yourselves that may shine too brightly for you to always see. To learn more about how to do energy work you can learn about in my previous blogpost here; https://modgepodgemystic.com/working-with-the-basics-of-life-and-magic-energy/
Pilgrimages
Followers embark on pilgrimages to sacred sites associated with the goddess, such as Ise Grand Shrine. These journeys symbolize strong devotion and spiritual unity with Amaterasu. So, if at all realistically possible try and do this at some point in your life to connect to her in a deep way.I have yet to experience this one but, it is a goal of mine to one day do!
Sacred Objects
Worshippers create ornate talismans, known as omamori, that are said to possess Amaterasu’s divine presence. These talismans bring protection and good luck to their owners.
Live in accordance to the practices of shintoism
Amaterasu is the central figure to shintoism, and Japanese culture. So, one of the best ways to connect to her and honor her would be by encompassing the principles and affirmations of that belief system. To learn more about how to do that you can read my previous blog post on it here; https://modgepodgemystic.com/shintoism-the-way-of-the-kami/
Conclusion
Amaterasu has been a revered guiding force since her arrival into this world. Even after thousands of years, she continues to shine as a symbol of hope and inspiration for those who believe in her divine presence. Call on her when you are feeling overwhelmed and worried or feeling down and she will bring some spark back into you. Helping you see the bright side of things and to give you a powerful boost of shining light, shining joy and lots of laughter! Allow her to guide you to higher celestial plane and shine her illuminating rays on all that you are and provide you with all that you need!
To expand your knowledge about her and meet her in a guided session or if you learn better through listening instead of reading. You can watch my free class with Divination Academy on youtube below!
About Me : I have been a solitary grey magic practitioner for 15 + years. First and foremost, I consider myself a mystic and seeker of all knowledge. I am dedicated to the restoration, and re-enchantment of Magic in society, across this realm, and in each and every soul I come across in life! I am here to create a container that promotes healing, duality, and raw authenticity. I do this by guiding you on your personal journey to understanding your unique magic and sacred contracts. I facilitate this for you through embracing your shadow, duality and learning to live in energetic balance while not wearing a mask. When you work and learn from me you do so from your “darkness” as much as your “light” and in a way to truly harness and accept it not to just go thru it on the way to your light. But, I teach you how to truly embrace it, work with it, and use it alongside your light as a partner. I hold up a mirror for you to be able to see your authentic reflection looking back. Then have the courage to take the next step and do the uncomfortable but vital inner work to completely remove your mask. By facing all of your past wounds, traumas, and hurts. Allowing you to see both the dark and light within your story and take each chapter and alchemize it into something that is so powerful. your unique internal flame will shine so bright you will always be able to go within and find it on a dark cold night. You will learn how to truly live in duality and energetic balance to allow growth, and alignment with your sacred contracts and purposes. to finally move on and truly let the things that hold you back in this life from healing and manifesting go. To see everything I offer; like personalized shadow work sessions, womb healing, eBooks for you to work through on your own, Tarot sessions for guidance and more! Go to my shop!
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