賀茂真淵 · かものまぶち · people

Kamo no Mabuchi

Major kokugaku scholar (1697–1769) known for his studies of the Man'yōshū and Shintō texts.

Definition

Kamo no Mabuchi (1697–1769) was a foundational figure in kokugaku, or 'National Learning', advocating for the study of classical Japanese literature and Shintō classics. A scholar of the 'Man'yōshū', Mabuchi’s interpretation emphasized the beauty of natural emotional expressions, particularly through the concept of 'mono no aware'. His scholarly endeavors were crucial in critiquing the Confucianism that had dominated the intellectual scene, he laid crucial groundwork for his successors, including Motoori Norinaga, in redefining Shintō as a central element of Japanese identity in a rapidly modernizing era.

Etymology

Mabuchi’s name reflects his ties to the Kamo clan, historically associated with Shintō priesthood, with '真淵' translating as 'true abyss' indicating depth in knowledge.