Name Meaning
Overview
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Tamamo-no-Mae (玉藻前) means “Lady Tamamo,” a name that conceals her true identity as a powerful and evil kitsune spirit.
- Tamamo (玉藻) = Jeweled algae or poetic name for beauty
- No Mae (前) = Honorific suffix meaning “in front” or “lady”
Origin
- Originates from Heian period court legends.
- Associated with calamity, seduction, and political sabotage.
- Eventually exposed as a kitsune and hunted down.
Appearance
- A beautiful, elegant court lady with glowing skin and an enchanting voice.
- True form is a white, nine-tailed fox of immense magical power.
- Often shown with an ominous aura or dark eyes in art.
Behavior & Myths
- Used her beauty and wit to manipulate emperors and sow discord.
- Caused illness in the emperor and natural disasters across the land.
- Her spirit was sealed in the Sesshō-seki (“Killing Stone”).
Symbolism
- Represents the dangers of unchecked desire and deception.
- Embodies the duality of beauty and menace in yokai lore.
- Her story is a cautionary tale of betrayal and illusion.
