Name Meaning
Yamata-no-Orochi (八岐大蛇) means "Eight-Forked Serpent." It refers to the eight heads and eight tails of this legendary beast.
- Yamata (八岐) = eight branches or forks
- Orochi (大蛇) = giant serpent
Origin
- Appears in the ancient text Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters).
- Slain by the storm god Susanoo to rescue the maiden Kushinada-hime.
- Considered a symbol of chaos and monstrous power.
Appearance
- Described as having eight heads and eight tails.
- Its body spans over eight valleys and eight hills.
- Blood-red eyes, and covered in moss and trees.
Behavior & Myths
- Demanded a sacrifice of a maiden each year.
- Susanoo used sake to intoxicate and slay the beast.
- The legendary sword Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi was found inside one of its tails.
Symbolism
- Represents natural disaster and overwhelming force.
- Its defeat symbolizes order triumphing over chaos.
- Still referenced in modern media and Shinto legends.
