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Ōnakatomi no Kiyomaro
Key figure associated with Shinto rituals in the late 8th century.
Definition
Ōnakatomi no Kiyomaro (dates unknown, late 8th century) was a significant Shinto priest from the Ōnakatomi clan, a branch of the larger Nakatomi family known for their ritual responsibilities. Kiyomaro played an essential role in establishing and formalizing various Shinto practices and rituals at the imperial court during the Nara period. His contributions often involved the integration of native spiritual beliefs with official rituals, thereby shaping the evolution of national religious identity.
Etymology
The name 'Ōnakatomi' illustrates the family's association with central religious duties, and 'Kiyomaro' generally translates as 'pure' or 'clean'.