The emperor Gozu, ox-headed deity of the underworld in Buddhist mythology. He is the deity of disease and plague and is therefore invoked for protection against the calamities he brings. He is similar to other mythological figures such as the Ainu Kenash Unarabe, invoked because of fear and their power to do harm. Gozu-tenno is often identified with Susano-wo, who was banished to rule the underworld by his father, Izanagi.
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REFERENCES:
- Joly, Henri L. 1967. Legend in Japanese Art. Tokyo: Charles E. Tuttle Co.
SOURCE:
Handbook of Japanese Mythology written by Michael Ashkenazi – Copyright © 2003 by Michael Ashkenazi