Name Meaning
Raijin (雷神) means “Thunder God” in Japanese. He is a major kami (deity) of thunder and lightning.
- Rai (雷) = Thunder
- Jin (神) = God or deity
Origin
- Appears in ancient Japanese myths, particularly the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki texts.
- Closely associated with Shinto worship and shrines dedicated to storm and weather gods.
Appearance
- Depicted as a muscular demon-like figure surrounded by drums.
- Often seen with wild hair, fierce eyes, and lightning emerging from his hands or drums.
Behavior & Myths
- Strikes his drums to create thunder and lightning across the sky.
- Sometimes seen as mischievous but ultimately a protector of divine order.
- Feared and worshipped to ensure good weather for crops and safety during storms.
Symbolism
- Symbol of divine power, protection, and the raw forces of nature.
- Frequently paired with Fūjin, the god of wind, in temple iconography.
