贈田中和久 · かだのあずままろ · people

Kada no Azumamaro

Edo-period kokugaku priest (1669–1736) of Fushimi Inari and key figure in Shintō scholarship.

Definition

Kada no Azumamaro (1669–1736) was a prominent kokugaku priest associated with Fushimi Inari Shrine. He played a critical role in advancing Shintō scholarship, emphasizing the study of ancient Japanese texts, particularly the 'Nihon Shoki' and 'Kojiki'. His efforts laid the foundation for later kokugaku scholars by promoting a return to native Japanese traditions and a systematic study of Shintō. Azumamaro's influence helped to validate and revive the cultural significance of Shintō during the Edo period, contributing to the establishment of a distinctly Japanese intellectual identity.

Etymology

His name, Kada no Azumamaro, suggests a lineage connected to the Kada clan, with 'Azumamaro' potentially reflecting regional ties or familial history.