Religion and the Tale of Genji

The literature is centered on the Heian period and demonstrates the different differences that occur within females of parallel levels, as well as the treatment of each rank against the other and the emperor's role in changing the face of some of the individuals. Religion is often a derivative of the rituals, beliefs, and traditions upheld by a single clique, and therefore can be reflected and viewed accordingly. To begin, The Tale of Genji accepts numerous norms that pointed to their belief in Buddhist performances and the presence of a deity. The narrative revolves around the succession of the emperor by Genji and the misgivings surrounding the life of this young lad owing to the backdrop of his predecessors and the circumstances to which he was born. Kiri-tsubo, mother to Genji and preferred partner to the Emperor, enjoys an extreme amount of favor arousing jealousy from the other partners hence the son faces homogenous challenges in attempting to succeed the emperor. There exist instances where the author introduces religious viewpoints, but there also exists sections that elaborate on the adoption of religious practices by the community in question. This literature has the intent of unraveling religious beliefs, practices, affiliations and reflections by the author that link to the Tale of Genji.

One core aspect to bear in mind in the association of the literature and religion is the idea that the belief of the characters towards the existence of a deity was quite high and hence the reverence of holy men. The experience of Genji in a time of ailment culminated in the belief of the power of a holy man that resided in one of the hills and the individual upheld the conventions of the Buddhist practices. The man revered by Genji dispenses advice to one of the court servants to hold their faith in Buddha so that they will have an easier life notwithstanding the fate that surrounded their future. Genji had earlier portrayed disinterest in matters of religion as he is observed dozing off from a conversation with his brothers on the mannerism that a woman should possess to capture the soul of a man. They note that females that have imposed a mindset of resilience can be referenced as sinful according to Buddha in the event they breakdown due to misfortunes that come their way, or in case they deviate from the norms of their behavior. This is a reflection of the comprehension of the repercussions of disobedience by women towards Buddha as indicated by Genji's brothers.

On a parallel occasion, Genji encounters the god of Sumiyoshi who was unraveled in his dream and was highlighted to hold the ability to lead an individual in the path they should take for them to be successful. The encounter between Lady Akashi and Genji is an exhibit to religious beliefs as this event occurs as if fate orchestrated it; starting with Genji's dream and the fact that Akashi's father revered the Sumiyoshi god. Shrines and areas to which the characters would perform their ceremonies to the gods were set aside, for instance, the dedication of Prince Niou from Genji's lineage is undertaken in the shrine for the Sumiyoshi. Additionally, presentation of gifts was highly regarded to be presented to the deity that Genji bowed to such that he endorsed prayers for the grandmother during her ailment and in return, he would offer some gifts to their god. Genji's faith is wavering, notwithstanding his belief in religious practices and culture as he questions the insights of one individual who he overhears offering a prayer and calling out to other to join him. The person proclaims that there was a savior in waiting and this Messiah warrants praise; however, Genji mocks of how the individual beliefs in the existence of another realm that people will eventually settle.

It is questionable how the religion/s portrayed in the literature endorses different values especially about love, marriage, and respect which unfold in the life of the emperor as well as that of Genji. Both of them embrace the taking up of several partners based on beauty and homogeneity to the people they love, and it is transparently notable that Genji married his stepmother and went ahead and took up a partner from one of his relatives in the court. The narrative considers that the events occurred in times when values, especially those appended to tradition and religion seem to face disregarded. The author sheds light on the amusement of many individuals towards Genji with his talent and behavior citing that pervasive actions marked the era. Values held by religion like honesty and integrity are seen to lack in Genji's character as he sneaks out with the assistance of koremitsu to visit a mysterious lady even going to the extent of leaving behind his carriage so that no one would recognize him.

Beliefs held by Geshin reflected the existence of Buddha and the characteristic of this deity as a merciful force that is capable of overlooking the hindrances that exist in the lives of many believers. The faith is not only an indication of the existence of Buddhist believers but an extension of the understanding of what Buddha is capable of accomplishing in the life of an individual. Geshin introduces religion as a means of achieving peace through his suggestion that he has been a victim for an elongated period due to evil desires; however, his belief is that the presence of Buddha's mercy in his life can transform his position. Geshin holds the faith in the existence of afterlife where individuals who did not uphold guidelines by Buddha would not be allowed entry. However, the understanding of Buddhism he holds is reflective of how judgmental religion can be such that Geshin points out the insincerity of his fellow believers and suggest that they would not manage to make it to their paradise. This counters the first reflection of mercy among Buddhist practices as it also caters for judgmental practice with no remorse.

There exists a contrast of religious traditions upheld by the Emperor and those endorsed by Genji such that the latter is highlighted to indulge in supplication practices as well as visitation to the Temple. The emperor on the other end finds consolation in Kiri-tsobu and the singing of birds, the calmness of nature as well as the comfort of knowing that Genji was doing well. In his turmoil, the emperor is seen to indulge in the company of other ladies, watching the garden as well as listening to the flutes being played by the court servants. His ties to religion are not reflected at all; however, his values of compassion and love added to those of understanding mirror the essential nature of the emperor and his belief in positive values. When Kiri-Tsobu is ill, the emperor does not resort to having the priests and any other holy individuals pray for her but Genji, on the other hand, holds a significant amount of confidence on such persons.

In the final chapters of the writing, Ukifune is highlighted making a transformation to join the religious communions by offering to become a nun; this is ironical based on her giving up in earlier times. Ukifune points out that her decision to join a religion is influenced by the good deeds directed towards her by the other religious individuals and hence she acknowledges that religion can mold better values in an individual. Religion in Tale of Genji mirrors a transition from one phase of life to another as Ukifune highlights that she considers herself to have aged enough to start indulging in religious practices (chapter 53). This is a clear indicator of the various beliefs held towards religious observations by different individuals; in fact, it is noted to be a means by which one can find redemption.

Conclusively, Buddhist practices are the most regarded by the characters of the literature and hence the great reverence to Buddha and his instructions as well as capabilities. Religion exists as a means by which individuals in the book can redeem themselves from foul misgivings that they believe are responsible for attracting unfortunate circumstances. The clear elaboration of the abilities of deity in the book with extremes of redemption, ability to build a bridge and even the healing power of Buddha reveal religious activities. It is transparent that the era to which the writing fits is marked by the worship of Buddha and by the observation of ceremonies and practices that came along with Buddhism.



Works Cited

Shikibu, Murasaki. The Tale of Genji. 1st ed. Japan: N.p., 1021. Print.