Engelbert Kaempfer: The History of Japan, London 1727
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Internet Edition by Wolfgang Michel, Kyushu University, Fukuoka-City, Japan. © 2007
RAW AND INCOMPLETE SCANNER VERSION. NOT EDITED YET
BOOK II. Of the Political State of Japan
Chap. I. Names of the Gods, Demi-Gods and Emperors, who are mention'd in the Japanese Histories, as the first Monarchs and Governors of
that Country.
The better to understand the opinion of the Japanese
about the original state of their Country (which formerly they look'd upon as
the only inhabited part of the earth,) and the succession of their Emperors and
Monarchs down to this present time, I have thought fit to divide the History
and Chronology of this Empire, into three Aera's, a fabulous, a doubtful, and a
certain.
The first and fabulous Epocha of the Japanese
Government reaches far beyond the time of the Creation, as fix'd, in Sacred
writs. Japan, they say, was during that period of time, govern'd by a
succession (or rather evolution) of seven Celestial Spirits or Gods, which are
by them call'd Ten Dsin Sitzi Dai, that is, the seven great Celestial Spirits,
each of which reign'd an immense, but undeter min'd number of years. The History
of the JapaneSe Gods is full of strange wonderful adventures, and yreat bloody
Wars, which are said to have happen'd in this first Age of the Japanese World.
The two Chronological Authors, whom I have follow'd< [144] in writing
this History, barely mention their Names, as also, that the three first were
not married, but that their four Successors had each his Wife, as a Companion
of his Government, whose names are likewise set down. Of this first Succession
of Gods, I have had already occasion to speak more amply in the seventh Chapter
of the first Book, wherein I treated of the origin of the Japanese Nation
according to the opinion of the Natives I must therefore refer the Reader to
that Chapter, and beg leave here to repeat, that the last of this first
Succession, Isanagi Mikotto, having carnally known his Wife and Goddess Isanami
Mikotto, begot a second race of Demi-Gods or God-men, who succeeded the first
in the Government of Japan, and being five in number are thence call'd el- Dsi Sin Go Dai, that is, the five great
Terrestrial Gods, or Monarchs. They reign'd in the following order.
• I.
Ten Se O Dai Sin, eldest son and heir of Isanagi
Mikotto, for whose memory,
and that of his brethren and posterity, the Japanese still profess a most
profound respect and veneration. He is said to have reign'd 250000 years.
China, they say, was during his reign govern'd by Ten Kwo Si, to whom they also
attribute a wrong and fabulous Government, and further mention, that three
descendants of his Family successively rul'd the Empire of China.
2. Osiwo Ni no Mikotto, liv'd
and reign'd in all 300000 years. During his reign, and during the reign of his
Successor, to the beginning of that of the fourth Japanese Dsi Sin, Sat Teiki
govern'd the Empire of China.
Ni ni ki no Mikotto reign'd
318533 years. During his whole Reign Sattei Ki was Emperor of China.
4. Fiko Oo Demi no Mikotto reign'd 637892 years.
China was then govern'd by the Emperor Katsura Kaki, who was succeeded by five
Princes of his Family.
5. The fifth and last of these Demi-Gods was Fuki Awa
se dsu no Mikotto. He reign'd 836042 years, so that the whole space of time,
during which this race of God-men govern'd Japan, takes in 2342467 years. This
is all the Japanese know of the antient State and Government of their Empire, a
tradition, which some of the wiser people, even among them, are very sensible,
is liable to great doubts and uncertainties, if not entirely fabulous and
chimerical. However all, without exception, profess a peculiar veneration for
Isanagi and his Consort Isanami, as being the progenitors of their Nation, and
if I may be allowed thus to express my self, their Adam and Eve. Therightwhich
the familyof the Ecclesiastical Hereditary Emperors claims to the Crown and
Government of Japan, and which they have enjoy'd free and undisturb'd during a
succession of many Ages, is grounded upon a lineal descent from Ten Seo Dai
Sin, Isanagi's first born son and heir, from his eldest son, and so down. There
is hardly a town, or village, throughout the Empire, but what hath one, or
more, Temples erected to his memory, and the place of< [145] his
residence, which is said to have been in the Province Isje, is held so sacred,
that, at certain times of the year, People of all ranks and qualities resort
thither in Pilgrimage. Thus much of this first and fabulous Epocha of the
Japanese Government, of which I have treated more at large in the
above-mention'd seventh Chapter of the first Book.
I proceed now to the second and doubtful Aera. It is
little known, what was the state of these Countries, and 'the way of life of
the Inhabitants, from the beginning of the Creation (when according to the
description of that great law-giver Moses, the Supreme Being call'd this Globe
of our Earth out of nothing, and form'd it, by his infinite power, into a state
altogether becoming his divine goodness and wisdom) to the time of their first
Monarch
Sin Mu Ten Oo, whose reign comes down pretty low, and
within 660 years of our Saviour's Nativity. It is hiahl
probable, that in those early times they liv'd up and
qloNv) the Country, dispers'd in hoords, (as do
to this day the Scythian Inhabitants of the great Tartary) separate fron the
rest of the world by a rocky tempestuous Sea, which encompasses their Islands,
being as yet in a state of nature and freedom, without a settled form of
Government, and destitute of arts and sciences. The neighbouring Empire of
China was then already grown very powerful, arts and sciences flourish'd there,
and were by the Chinese brought over likowise into Japan. It was owing to this,
that the Japanese became in time polite and civiliz'd, and 'tis not unlikely,
that in imitation of their neighbours, by whom they were imbued with notions of
a Monarchical Government, they submitted with more chearfulness, when Sin Mu
Ten Oo began to reign over them, the rather as this Prince was descended of a
family so much belov'd, and esteem'd so sacred among them. In the mean time,
that so considerable a period of time should not remain empty in their
Chronological Books, they have fill'd up the vacancy with the names of the most
eminent Monarchs, who after the demise of Katsurakuki and the five descendants
of his family, sat on the Throne of China.
The first
Chinese Emperor mention'd in this second Aera is Fuki, and with his full title
Tai Ko Fuki, (the Chinese pronounce it Fohi.) This Prince had according to some
the body, and according to others the head of a Serpent, with a most sublime
understanding. He discover'd the motions of the Heavens, and the twelve
Celestial Signs, and divided the time into years and months. He invented
besides many other useful arts and sciences, and communicated them to the world
for the common benefit of mankind. The Chinese make him their first Emperor and
the founder of their Monarchy, and many among them pretend, that from his reign
down to this present age, they can shew an accurate History of their Empire,
and a true Chronological succession of their Emperors) which before his time
had been very doubtful and fabulous. But if according to one of my Japanese
Historians, he began to reign 20446 years before Synmu, or 1106 before Christ,
that is, many thousand years before< [146] the Creation,
he cannot be allowid a place in this second Aera, but ought to be rejected into
the first and fabulous one. My other ChronologicalAuthor,with more probability,
puts the beginning of his reign in the year before Synmu, 2928,which is the
year before Christ 3588, or according to Petavius 396 years after the Creation.
He reign'd according to one Author 110, and according to the other 115 years. I
think it necessary here to acquaint the Reader, that having found the latter
Author in many Instances more accurate, I chose to follow him preferably to the
first. The Rev. Father Couplet, in the Preface to his Chronological Tables,
puts the beginning of the reign of Fohi in the year before Christ 2953, which
comes 520 years nearer our Saviour's nativity, being just that space of time,
during which Xinnum and the seven descendants of his family, whom he omits, sat
on the Throne of China.
The second Chinese Emperor was Sin Noo, (the Chinese
pronounce it Xin Num, or Sijnnum,) and with his full title Jen Tei Sin Noo Si.
Some Authors begin the Chronology of the Chinese Empire with the reign of this
Emperor. He came to the throne in the year before Synmu, 2549, which is the
year before Christ 3209, or according to Petavius's Chronology 775 years after
the Creation. This illustrious Prince, like another Egyptian Serapis, taught
mankind agriculture, and those arts which relate to the support of our Life.
For this reason he is by some represented with the head of an Ox, by others
only with two horns plac'd on his forehead. He also discover'd the virtues of
several Plants, and communicated them to the world in a treatise he wrote on this
subject, which was doubtless the first Herbal that ever was written. His
Picture is held in high esteem among the Chinese. The Physicians particularly
have it hung up in one of the best apartments of their houses, with a plant or
leaf in his mouth, on which he smells. He reign'd I40 years, and was succeeded
by seven descendants of his family, who reign'd 380 years; so that the Empire
continu'd in this family 520 years.
After the demise of the last Emperor of the family of
Xin Num, Kwo Tei, (or according to the Chinese Hoam Ti,) and with his full
title Hon Tei Juu Hin Si, came to the Crown. The Chinese Historians unanimously
agree) that this Prince reign'd in China. Those who call the existence of the
preceding reigns in question, begin the History and Chronology of the Chinese
Empire with the reign of Hoam Ti. He begun to reign in the year before Synmu
2029, before Christ 2689, or according to Father Couplet, whom Dr. Mentzelius
accurately follows, 2697. He was but eleven years old when he came to the Crown.
During his minority the Empire was govern'd by wise and prudent Councellors,
who took great care to give the young Monarch an education becoming so great a
Prince, and to instruct him in all the useful arts and sciences then known. The
Chinese stand indebted to this Emperor for the art of feeling the pulse, which
he learnt himself from his Tutors, and afterwards commanded that it shou'd be
publish'd to the World. He reign'd 100, and live'd< [147] III years. He
was succeeded by five descendants of his Family, in which the Empire continu'd
313 years.
Of the five Princes, Hoam Ti's successors, Tei Gio,
or according to the Chinese pronunciation Ti Jao, was the most illustrious. He
was a great Sesin, that is, a Man incomparably well vers'd in occult arts and sciences.
He was also a very virtuous Prince, and a true Father of his Country. His death
was universally lamented by all his Subjects, who went into mourning for three
years. He came to the Crown in the year before Synmu, 1697, before Christ 2357.
He reign'd 72 years, and dy'd under the reign of his successor in the 118th
year of his age. Tho' he had twelve Children, ten sons and two daughters, yet
he deliver'd the Crown and Government of the Empire to an honest and wise
Husband-man, to whom he married his two daughters.
Tei Sijun, otherwise Gu, and according to the Chinese
Ju Ti Sijun, or Ju Ti Xun, was Ti Jao's son in law, and successor. He reign'd
eight and twenty years with Ti Jao, and thirty three alone, in all sixtyone.
My Author puts the beginning of his reign in the year before Synmu, 1634, which
is the year before Christ 2294. During his reign a great Deluge happen'd in
China, which overflow'd many provinces,and drown'd great numbers of the
Inhabitants. The Country continu'd under Water in some parts for several years
after. Uu, and with his full title Katewu, that is, Emperor Uu,
of the family Ka, or as the Chinese
pronounce it, Ju of the family Hia, reign'd seventeen years with the Emperor
Tei Sjun, and ten years after his death, in all twenty-seven years. He was
crown'd in the year before Synmu 1573 before Christ 2233. This Emperor caused
canals and sluices to be cut, to convey the Waters, which overflow'd great part
of China under the reign of his Predecessor, down to the Sea. By this means deep
rivers arose, and the Country was freed from the floods. He liv'd an hundred
years, and was succeeded by eleven descendants of his family, who reign'd 431
years, so that the crown remain'd in this family 458 years. The last of this
family was famous for his uncommon strength, but he very much tyraniz'd his
subjects, and livid with such a profuseness, that he caus'd a Lake to be dug by
two thousand Men, and to be fill'd with Chinese Beer. He is said also to have
built a Tower of Gold and precious Stones for one of his Mistresses. He was
depos'd and banish'd in the 52d year of his age.
Sioo Sei Too, that is King Too of the family of Sjoo,
or si as the Chinese pronounce it, King Tam of the family of Ks3am, came to the Crown in the year before Synmu
1106, before Christ I 766, being then eighty-seven years old. He reign'd
thirteen years, and died in the hundredth year of his age. During his reign there was a great famine
in China, which lasted seven years, like that famous Egyptian famine mention'd
in holy Writs. He was succeeded by twenty-seven Princes of his family, who
reign'd in all 631 years, so that the Empire remain'd in this Family for 644
years. The last Emperor of this family was a great tyrant,
[148]
for which
reason the Princes his subjects rais'd war and rebellion against him, and
having reduc'd him to great streights, he set fire to his Palace, and burnt
himself with his family and domestics, leaving the Empire to the Conqueror.
Siu no Bu 0, that is, Emperor Bu of the family of
Siu, or according to the Chinese Uu Vam of the family Sjeu, who came to the
Crown 462 years before Synmu, and 1122 before Christ. He reign'd seven years,
and was succeeded by thirty-seven descendants of his family, in which the
Empire continu'd according to the Japanese Histories 868 years, that is to the
year before Christ 255, and 206 years after Synmu. Under Soowoo, and according
to the Chinese pronunciation Sjoovam, the fourth Emperor of this family, in the
22d year of his reign, which was the year before Synmu 367, before Christ 1027,
upon the eighth day of the fourth month, was born in India the great heathen
prophet Siaka, who for his incomparable qualities was afterwards call'd Fo, or
Fotoge, that is, the God, and by the Chinese Sitsjun, that is, the great and
perfect. His doctrine was soon spread by his disciples into several parts of
the East-Indies. He died seventynine years old, in the year before Synmu 289,
before Christ 949. Thus far what I had to observe concerning the second and
doubtful Aera of the Japanese.
Chap. II. Of the Ecclesiastical Hereditary Emperors of Japan in general, of their Succession, Residence and Court; as also of the Chronology of the Japanese.
He third and last Epocha of the Japanese 2 Monarchy,
which is that of their Oo Dai tv Sin Oo, or Ecclesiastical Hereditary Emperors,
begins with the year before Christ 660, being the seventeenth year of the reign
of the Chinese Emperor Kaiwo, or as the Chinese pronounce it, Huivam, (who was
the seventeenth Emperor of the family of Sjeu). From that time to the year of
Christ 1693, one hundred and fourteen Emperors, all of the same family, sat
successively on the Throne of Japan. They value themselves ] extremely
upon being the eldest branch of the family of
Tensio Dai Sin, that most sacred founder of the Japanese fi Nation, and
the lineal issue of his first-born son, and so down. Uncommon respect, and a
more than human veneration, is on this account paid them by their subjects and
countrymen. But before I proceed to the History of their succession, lives and
actions, it will not be amiss to give< [149] some
preliminary account of their sacred Persons and Court, as also of the
Chronology of this Empire, whereby the succession of the Emperors must be
calculated.
And here it must be observ'd in the first place,
that
these Ecclesiastical hereditary
Monarchs, tho' they are ] Heirs of the Throne and Government of their divine
Predecessors, yet they have not inherited the Title of Mikotto, a Title which
is sacred only to the divine and half divine Beings of the first and second
Succession. They are call'd Mikaddo (which is a diminutive of Mikotto) as also
Dai, and Oo, and Kwo and Tai, all which signify an Emperor, a Prince and great
Lord. They are likewise call'd Tensin, that is, Sons of Heaven, and many more
Titles of the like Nature have been given thern. In common conversation they
are frequently call'd Dairi, which name properly denotes their whole Court, on
which account also he is sometimes call'd Kintsiusama, that is, the Head, or
Lord of the Ecclesiastical Court. When he speaks of himself he assumes the
Title of Tsin, and when he signs that of Maro.
But to come nearer to our purpose. It was about the
time mention'd above, that the Japanese, who had been till then without any
settled Form of Government, either Monarchical or other, following a course of
Life not unlike that of the Patriarchs, where the several Families liv'd under
the command and authority of their Fathers, or else obey'd to the most prudent
among themselves; 'twas I say, about that time, they agreed to submit to the
Government of one Prince. It is not improbable,but that the Chinese, who came
over from time to time into Japan, as they were bred up themselves under a
Monarchical Government, had no small share in persuading the Japanese to prefer
the same. In this posture of affairs, surely no body had a better claim to the
supreme Power and Authority, than a Prince lineally descended of the first born
issue of the Family of Tensio Dai Sin, who, by the very Law of Primogeniture,
seem'd to be naturally entitled to the Sovereignty ascrib'd to that Founder of
their Nation, whose Holiness and Virtues he inherited besides.
Even to this Day the Princes descended of this
Familv, more particularly those who sit on the Throne, are look'd upon as
Persons most holy in themselves, and as Popes by birth. And in order to
preserve these advantageous notions in the minds of their Subjects, they are
oblig'd to take an uncommon care of their sacred I'ersons, and to do such
things, which examin'd according to the Customs of other Nations, would be
thought ridiculous and impertinent. It will not be improper to give a few
instances of it. He thinks that it would be very prejudicial to his Dignity and
Holiness to touch the ground with his feet; for this reason, when he intends to
go any where, he must be carried thither on Men's shoulders. Much less will
they suffer, that he should expose his Sacred Person to the open air, and the
Sun is< [150] not thought
worthy to shine on his Head. There is such a Holiness ascrib'd to all the parts
of his Body, that he dares not cut off, neither his Hair, nor his Beard, nor
his nails. However lest he should grow too dirty, they may clean him in the
Night, when he is asleep) because they say, that what is taken from his Body at
that time, hath been stolen from him, and that such a theft doth not prejudice
his Holiness or Dignity. In ancient times he was oblig'd to sit on the Throne
for some hours every morning, with the Imperial Crown on his Head, but to sit
altogether like a Statue, without stirring either Hands or Feet, Head or Eyes,
nor indeed any part of his Body, because by this means it was thought that he
could preserve peace and tranquility in his Empire, for if unfortunately he
turn'd himself on one side or the other, or if he look'd a good while towards
any part of his Dominions, it was apprehended that AATar, Famine, Fire, or some
other great MisSortune was near at hand to desolate the Country. But it having
been afterwards discover'd, that the Imperial Crown was the Palladium, which by
its immobility could preserve peace in the Empire, it was thought expedient to
deliver his Imperial Person, consecrated only to idleness and pleasures, from
this burthensome duty, and therefore the Crown is at present plac'd on the
Throne for some hours every morning. His Victuals must be dress'd every time in
new pots, and serv'd at table in new dishes: Both are very clean and neat, but
made only of common clay, that without any considerable expence they may be
laid aside, or broke, after they have serv'd once. They are generally broke,
for fear they should come into the hands of Laymen, for they believe
religiously, that if any Layman shou'd presume to eat his food out of these
sacred dishes, it would swell and inflame his mouth and throat. The like ill
effect is dreaded from the Dairi's sacred habits, for they believe that if a
Layman shou'd wear them, without the Emperor's express leave, or command, they
would occasion swellings and pains in all parts of his body.
Assoon as by the demise of a Mikaddo the Throne
becomes vacant, he is by the Ministry of this Ecclesiastical Court put into the
deceas'd's place, whom they think the nearest Heir, without regard had to Age
or Sex. Hence it is, that often Princes under age, or youna unmarried
Princesses ascend the Throne, and there are also instances, that the deceas'd
Emperor's Relict succeeded her Husband. If there be several Pretenders to the
Crown, and it doth not appear plainly, who it is that hath the nearest Title,
the Difference is adjusted in an amicab]e way, according to equity, and the
supreme power deliver'd successively, to each of them for some years, in
proportion to the degree of kindred, they bore to the deccas'd Mikaddo.
Sometimes the Father resigns the Crown successively to one or more of his
Children, that he, and their Mothers, whilst yet alive, may have the pleasure
to see them upon the Throne, of which perhaps after their demise, they < [151] would stand
excluded. All this is done at Court with as little trouble as possible, and a
Mikaddo may die, or resign, and another be put into his place, without any
body's, but the Courts, knowing of it, till the affair is over. However it
happen'd sometimes, that those of the Imperial family, who thought themselves
entituled to the succession, but were excluded, maintain7al their right by
force of arms, endeavouring to turn out the Dairi, whom they thought unlawfully
possess'd of the Throne. Hence arose wars and dissensions very prejudicial to
the Empire. The Princes of the Empire espous'd different Interests, and these
quarrels seldom ended but with the entire destruction of one the contending
parties, followid by a cruel extirpation of wholz families.
The Dairi's whole Court is of the family of Tensio
Dai dsin, and 'tis on account of a birth so eminent and noble,
that they esteem themselves
entitled to a far greater degree of respect and deference, than Laymen could
pretend to. Though they are all descended of one family, yet by degrees they
spread out into different branches, and are at present many thousands in
number. Some few are provided with Abbies, and Priories of rich Monasteries,
founded up and down the Empire. But the greatest part of them remain at Court,
religiously attach'd to the Dairi's most holy person, of whom they must
entirely depend as to their support and maintenance, each according to the
office or dignity, he is invested with.
At present the Secular Emperor grants the necessary I
subsidies for the maintenance of the Dairi, and iliS Ecclesi- » astical
Court. He hath for this purpose assign'd him the n whole revenue of the City of
Miaco, and all its appurtenances; but because they fell far short of ballancing
his expences, it hath been agreed, that the deficiencies should be made up out
of the Secular Emperor's fExchequer: But those allowances are so small, and
besides so indifferently paid, that the Court can hardly subsist by it, at
least, that they cannot make that figure, which they did formerly, when the
Dairi was himself Master of the Empire, and had all the Revenues at his own
disposal. However, they still keep up their former erandeur and magnificence,
and it can most truly be said of this Court, that it is remarkable for a
splendid poverty. The great ones run themselves in debt, and the inferior
officers and servants, whose allowances are far from being sufficient to
maintain them, must work for their livelyhood. Accordingly they make and sell
baskets made of straw, (See Chap I. of the V. Book) tables, shoes for Men and
Horses, and other mean things of this nature. The Mikaddo indeed, though his
Revenues are but small, in comparison of what they were in former times, yet as
he still hath them in his own management, he is sure in the first place to take
care of himself, and to provide what is requisite to keep up his former splendor,
and to satisfy his luxury and< [152] profuseness.
He is the better able to do this, as one very considerable prerogative of the
Crown and supreme authority, he once enjoy'd, hath been still left him by the
Secular Monarch, which is the granting of titles of Honour to the great Men of
the Empire, their children and relations, which brings in vast Treasures into
his Exchequer. He follows the custom of his Predecessors, keeping twelve wives,
one of whom, being the mother ot the hereditary Prince or Princess, hath the
title of Empress. It would be too tedious to relate all the splendid and
pompous ceremonies which are observed upon his marriage, upon the lying in of
the Empress, upon the chusing of a nurse for the Heir of the Crown, and his
education. It is enough to say, that they are great and magnificent beyond
expression, and that, did all the happiness and welfare of the Empire entirely
depend upon the birth of this hereditary Prince, they could not be greater.
There are several eminent dignities that belong to
this Ecclesiastical Court, and its Nobility is composid of persons of different
ranks and quality. The Mikaddo himself is the fountain of honour. There are
indeed certain employments annex'd to certain Titles. But other honours are
meerly titular, and these are frequently conferr'd by the Mikaddo on Secular
persons, on the Princes of the Empire, and Men of note. This is done either at
the recommendation of the Secular Monarch, or at their own desire, upon
condition of paying a large sum of money. All the Honours and Titles are
divided into six I, as they call them, that is ranks or Classes. The Title of
the first class is Dai Seo Dai Sin. The person, who is honour'd with this
Title, is esteemed so great and sacred, that they believe that his Soul becomes
a Cami, or God, the moment of her departure from the body. For this reason the
Mikaddo keeps it for himself, and seldom bestows it on any body. The dignity of
Quanbuku belongs likewise to this first class. Quanbuku is the second Person of
the Ecclesiastical Court, and the Dairi's Vicegerent and Prime Minister in all
aSairs relating to the Empire. (This Title is assumed by the secular Monarch,
or given to the presumptive heir of the Crown, and is the same with that of
Quabacondono, of which there is so frequent mention made in the Letters of the
Jesuits.) The following three Titles belong to the second I, or rank, Sa Dai
Sin, U Dai Sin, and Nai Dai Sin. They are never conferr'd on more than three
persons at Court. The Dai Nagon and lsunagon make up the third rank. These two
Titles are always annex'd to certain Employments. The titles, which belong to
the fourth and fifth I, rank or class, are Seonagon, Tsiunagon, Tsiusto,
Seosjo, and Sidsiu. Both these Classes are very numerous, and again subdivided into
several differing ranks. The persons of this Class are likewise call'd Tensio
bito, that is, a Heavenly people, and the whole Ecclesiastical Court in general
assumes the title of Kuge, which signifies as much< [153] as
Ecclestiastical Lords, and this they do by way of distinction from the Gege,
under which name they comprehend all the Laity and inferior sort of People, who
are not of so holy and so honourable a descent. The titles of the sixth and
last class are Tai U, Goi, and many more of less note. All titles and degrees
of honour, whatsoever, are conferr'd, as I have already observ'd, by the
Mikaddo, and by him alone. When the Secular Monarchs took the Government of the
Empire into their hands) the Dairi reserv'd to himself, along with the supreme authority,
this considerable branch of the Imperial prerogatives. Hence whatever titles
the Secular Emperors intend to bestow on their Favourites and Prime Ministers,
must be obtain'd of the Mikaddo. There are chiefly two titles, which the
Secular Emperor, with the consent of the Dairi, can confer on his prime
Ministers, and the Princes of the Empire, which are Maquandairo and Cami. The
first was formerly hereditary, and signifies as much as a Duke or Earl. The
second denotes a Knight. It must be observ'd in this place, that the character,
which denotes a deified Soul, is likewise pronounc'd Cami, but then it is of a
nature quite diflferent from that which expresses the title and honour of
Knighthood. All the Gods and Idols of the Country in general have the name and
character of Cami.
The Persons
of this Ecclesiastical Court, among other marks of distinction, are clad after
a particular fashion, peculiar to themselves, and widely differing from the
habits of secular Persons, whom they scorn and despise, as being of a mean,
unholy extraction. There is so tnuch difference even among themselves, as to
their habits, that thereby alone it is easily known what rank they are of, or
what employment they have at Court. They wear long wide breeches and a large
gown over them, which is very wide and made after a singular fashion, chiefly
about the shoulders, and hath a long train, which they trail after them on the
ground. They cover their heads with a black lacker'd cap, by the different
shape and figure of which, it is known, among other marks of distinction, what
guality they are of, or what places they have at court. Some have a broad band
of black Crape, or Silk stitch'd to their caps, which is either tied up, or
hangs down behind their shoulders. Others have a sort of a Lap, made after the
fashion of a Fan, standing out before their Eyes. Some wear a sort of Scarf, or
a broad Band, which hangs down forwards from their shoulders. The length of
this Scarf is again different, according to every oneas quality, or dignity,
for it is the custom of this court, that no body bows down lower, but to reach
the floor with the end of this Scarf. The Women's dress at the Court of the
Dairi is also very particular and different from that of Secular Women. But
chiefly the Dairi's twelve Wives are dress'd in as many sumptuous Gowns, not
lined, inter wove with flowers of Gold and Silver, and withal so large and
wide, that it is a matter of great difficulty for them to walk, when thus
compleatly dress'd.< [154]
Studies and learning are the chief amusement of this
Ecclesiastical Court. Not only the Kuge, or courtiers, but even many of the
fair Sex have acquir'd great reputation by their Poetical, Historical and other
Writings All the Almanacks were formerly made at court: But now it is a learned
Citizen at Miaco that makes them. However they must be examin'd and approv'd of
at Court by Persons commission'd for it, who take care that they be sent to
Isje, as to a holy Place to be there printed. They are great lovers of Musick,
particularly the Women play with great dexterity upon all sorts of Musical
Instruments. Young Noblemen divert themselves with riding, running races,
dancing, fighting, playing at Tennis, and such other exercises becoming their
quality. I did not enquire, whether they act Comedies and Tragedies at Court.
But as the Japanese in general are very fond of Plays, and will spend a great
dtal of money upon them, I am inclin'd to believe, these Ecclesiastical
Persons, their gravity and holiness notwithstanding, would not be willingly
wanting so agreeable and entertaining, and withal so innocent a diversion.
In former times when the Dairi was sole Master of the
Country, he resided with his Court, wherever he pleas'd, ^ honouring with his
sacred Presence, now this, then another town, or province of his Empire, and it
seldom happen'd, that two succeeding Emperors chose the same place to live at.
Of late their Residence hath been in a manner fix'd to Miaco. They are
possess'd of the North-East part of this large Capital, which well deserves the
name of a separate Town, not only by reason of its great extent, and the number
of streets, palaces and houses built within its compass, but also because it is
actually separate from Miaco, and defended against the sudden approach of an
unexpected enemy, by ditches, walls, ramparts and gates. The Mikaddo himself
lives about the middle of it, in a large and spacious palace,known from others
by the height and magnificence of its tower. His Imperial Consort lives with
him in the same palace, and the palaces of his other Wives stand next to his. A
little way further are the houses of the Lords of the Dairi's Bed-chamber, and
of such other persons, whose offices require a constant and more immediate
attendance on his sacred person. If a Mikaddo resigns, a separate palace is
assign'd to him, to his family and court, as is also another to the Heredi tary
Prince, and to his Court. The rest of the streets and houses are divided among
the Officers of this Court according to their rank and dignity. The Secular
Monarch constantly keeps a strong guard of Bugjos and Soldiers at the Dairi's
Court, as it were, out of tenderness and care for the preservation and safety
of his sacred person and family, but in fact to put it out of his power, ever
to attempt the recovery of the throne and the supreme authority, which he took
from him.
Thus much of the Dairi, his Court and Government in
general. It now remains, before I procetd to the History and Succession of < [155] the
Ecclesiastical Emperors, to lay down some general observations tending to
explain the Chronology made use of in the same.
The Japanese
have two principal Aera's, or Epocha's. The first, and also the more common,
begins with the reign of their first Emperor Synmu in the year before Christ
660. Consequently the year of Christ 1693) which was the sixth year of the
Nengo Genrokf, was the 2353 from Synmu. This Epoch is by them call'd Nin O,
which properly speaking signifies, a great and powerful Lord, or Monarch, and
in a more sublime sense, the very first.
The second Epoch made use of
in Japan, is call'd Nengo. It was invented by the Chinese for a greater
certainty in Chronology, than they thought their common Epochs would admit of,
and it was not introduc'd in Japan till the reign of the thirty-sixth Emperor.
It takes in a period only of a few years, commonly less than twenty, seldom
beyond this number. The beginning, as also the proper figure to express it, are
determin'd by the Emperor, which is done commonly in memory of some remarkable
accident, or of some considerable alteration in church or state. As the Emperor
hath the sole power of instituting them, so he can continue them as long as he
pleases. The Japanese character expressing the Nengo, then current, when I was
in Japan, the sixth year of which falls in with the year of Christ 1693, was
pronounc'd Genrokf, which signifies the Happiness of Nature and Art, whereby
the then reigning Mikaddo alluded to the desirable happiness and tranquillity
of a private life, which the late Emperor his father resolv'd to lead after his
resignation of the Crown. This Epoch is made use of in their Almanacks, Orders,
Proclamations, Journals, Letters and Writings. In their printed Books, chiefly
such as relate to History and Chronology, the current year of the Epoch Nin O
is added to it. It must be observ'd that a new Nengo begins always with a new
year, tho' it was order'd and instituted soveral months before. Sometimes also
it happens, that altho' a new Nengo hath been already begun, yet the years of
the preceding Nengo are continued in the title pages of their Books, their
Letters, Journals, and so on. This I take to be owing either to the People's
not liking the character expressing the new Nengo, or to its not being as yet
known, which is not impossible in an Empire of so great an extent. Thus for
instance, the almanacks of the first and second year of the Nengo Genrokf were
printed with the fifth and sixth year of the preceding Nengo, Dsiokio, tho' it
was then already expir'd. In this case however care is taken, that no error, or
confusion, shou'd be occasion'd in their Chronology by such an inadvertency.
And for this reason it was, that in the next almanack, which was that of the
year of Christ 1690, the third year of the Nengo Genrokf then current, was set
down accordingly, without any mention made of the two first. The character of a
Nengo is compos'd of two, seldom of more figures, which are, and must be taken
out of a particular table compos'd for this purpose.< [156]
There remains still a third
Epoch, which is likewise made use of in the Chronology of the Japanese. This
consists of Cycli or periods of sixty years,and the Japanese stand indebted for
it to the Chinese, as they are also for their Nengo's. These sixty years arise
from a combination of the Jetta, which are the names of the twelve Celestial
signs, with the ten names of their Elements.
The characters of the Celestial signs being combin'd
with those of the ten Elements five different times, or these six times with
the former, there arise sixty compound figures or characters, each of which is
taken for a year. When the sixty years are expir'd, a new Cyclus is begun,
which runs again thro' all these several combinations The Japanese use this
period of 60 years, the better to ascertain the most remarkable occulTencies in
church and state, which are recorded in their Histories, and are referr'd under
the current year of the Cyclus, as well as that of the two other Epochs Nin O
and Nengo, by which means also they obtain a perpetual harmony between their
own History and Chronology and that of the Chinese, with this difference
however, that whereas the Chinese in their historical writings mention not only
the year, but likewise the number of the Cyclus wherein such or such things
happen'd, the .Tapanese on the contrary set down only the year. The Cycli of
the Japanese are not number'd at all, the reason of which will appear plainly,
if we consider the natural pride of this nation, and how far short they would
fall, in this particular, of their neighbours the Chinese, who can shew a
succession of Cyclus's for many centuries before the very foundation of the
Japanese Monarchy. In the following History, which I propose to give of the
succession of the Japanese Monarchs, I shall avoid troubling the Reader with
all these different Epochs, tho' I thought it requisite to give some
preliminary account of them.
The Jetta, or twelve Celestial Signs of the Japanese,
are
r. Ne, the
Mouse. 4 r
2. Us, the Ox or Cow.
3. Torra, the Tyger.
4. Ow, the Hare.
5. Tats, the Dragon.
6. Mi, the Serpent.
I7. Uma, the Horse.
7. Tsitsuse, the Sheep.
9. Sar, the Monkey.
10. Torri, the Cock, or Hen.
11. In, the Dog.
12. I, the Boar.
The same names are given, and
in the same order, to the twelve hours of the natural day, and to the twelve
parts, which every hour is by them divided into, by
which meanS they are able to mention in their Histories, with great accuracy
not only what day the most remarkable Occurrencies happen'd, but also what
hour, and what part of the hour. It must be observ'd however, that what they
call Day, is that interval of time between Sun-rise and Sun-set, and that the
same is divided into six equal parts or hours, as is also the Night, from
Sun-set to Sun-rise into six others.< [157] Hence it is,
that their hours differ in length every day, that in the Summer the hours of
the day are much longer than those of the night, and shorter on the contrary in
the Winter.
As to their Elements, there are properly speaking but
five, and it is only by giving two diferent names and characters to each of
them, that they have rais'd the number to ten, which was absolutely necessary,
because by their combination with the twelve Celestial Signs repeated five
times, they were to obtain the Cyclus of sixty years. The Names of their ten Elements
are
1. Kino Je,
Wood.
2. Kino To. Wood.
3. Fino Je.
Fire.
4. Fino To. Fire.
5. Tsutsno
Je. Earth.
6. Tsutsno To.
7. Kanno Je.
Oar.
8. Earth. Kanno To.
9. Midsno Je. Water. vo.
10. Oar. Midsno To. Water.
In Fig. 72 hereunto annex'd, I have represented the
Characters of the twelve Celestial Signs, those of the ten Elements, and those
of the whole period of sixty years, as they arise from a combination of the
former.
The beginning of the Japanese year falls in between
the Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox, about the fifth of i February. But as
the Japanese are extremely superstitious in celebrating the day of the New
Moon, they commonly begin it with the New Moon, which immediately precedes or
follows the fifth of February. Thus the first year of the Nengo Genrokf, which
in the Cyclus is call'd Tsutsno Je Tats, being the year of Christ 1688) began
on the second of February, the second of Genrokf, in the Cyclus Tsutsnoto Mi,
(of Christ 1689) on the nventy-first of January; the third of Genrokf, in the
Cyclus Kano Je Uma, (of Christ 1690) on the Ninth of February; the fourth of
Genrokf, in the Cyclus Kanoto Fitsuse (of Christ 1691) on the twenty-first of
January; the fifth of Genrokf, in the Cyclus Midsno Je Sar, (of Christ 1692) on
the seventeenth of February; and the sixth of Genrokf, (of Christ 1693) on the
fifth of February. The Japanese have a Leap-year every other or third year, or
seven Leap-years in nineteen common years.< [158]
Chap. III. Of the Ecclesiastical Hereditary Emperors in particular, and first of those, who govern'd from the beginning of the Japanese Monarchy till our Saviour's Nativity.
I now come to the History and Succession of the
Ecclesiastical hereditary
Monarchs of
Japan, but before I begin h, the same, I must not omit to take notice, A that
in their Historical and Chronological Books a new Reign begins always with a
new Year. Tho) a new Emperor, as it frequently happens, becomes possess'd of
the Throne, by death or resignation, several months before the Year is expir'd,
yet all the remaining part of it is added to the Reign of his Predecessor. This
is done, as they pretend, to avoid all Confusion in their Chronological Tables;
for in their Historical Remarks upon the same they constantly mention what
Month, and what Day of the Month every Mikaddo took possession of the Throne.
In writing this History of the Japanese Monarchy I
consulted two Chronicles written and publish'd in Japan, 2 wherein very little
is said of the Lives of the Emperors„ their Virtues and Vices, and the political
Part of their t Government; but their Names, their Descent and Birth, their
Succession, the Time of their Reign, the Names of the Nengo's instituted by
them, and how many Years they subsisted, the Place of their Residence and the
like, are mention'd with more accuracy, with many more remarkable occurrencies,
as they happen'd under each Reign, such as for instance: The building and
consecrat ing of considerable Sintos or Budsdo Temples; the Birth and Death of
great Heroes, eminent Priests and other illustrious Persons; the Rise and Fall
of great Ministers at Court; Rebellions, Wars, Fires, appearings of Comets, new
Stars never seen before, and strange Meteors; Earthquakes, Famines, Plagues and
other epidemical Diseases; the coming over of new Idols, Priests, People, or
Things from foreign Countries; the publication of Books of Note; the
Institution and Celebration of Festival-days in Honour of their Gods, Saints
and Heroes; the time, when some of their Idols were cut or carv'd, or carried
from one Temple to another, with the Names of the Workmen; the Appearances of
their Gods and Spirits, the wonderful Discovery of their Idols, great Things
spoke and foretold, and Miracles wrought by them; as also the most remarkable
things which frorn time to time happen'd in China. Of all these, and many more
mention'd in these two Japanese Authors, I have extracted only, what was
necessary to my< [159] present
purpose, or what was thought would not prove unworthy the Readers Attention.
SYN MU, and with his full Title Syn Mu ten Oo,
founded the Japanese Monarchy in the s8th year of the 35th Chinese Cyclus, when
Teikwo, or according to the Chinese pronunciation, Hoyvam was already enter'd
the eighth year of his Reign, in the year before Christ 660, and the 78th of his
Age.
He was before that time callad Jwa Fikono Mikotto,
and was the fourth and youngest of his Brothers, who preceeded him in the
Government, but liv'd so inconsiderable a time, and reign'd in such an obscure
manner, that the Foundation of the Empire, with the Title of NTin 0, that is,
the Supreme of all Men, is by all Japanese Writers unanimously attributed to
him, as to their Julius CsEsar.
He civiliz'd the Inhabitants of Japan, which was then
call'd Akitsussima, introduc'd Chronology among them, dividing the Time into
Years, Months and Days, and made a thorough Reformation in the Laws and
Government of the Country.
In the 59th Year of his Reign, which was the 60r before Christ, 346 Years after the Death of Siaka,
on the r4th Day of the ninth Month, was born in China, in the Province Sokokf,
the great Philosopher Roosi. He was already fourscore and one Years old, and
grey, when his Mother was brought to bed of him, for which reason he was call'd
Roosi, which signifies an Old Child, this word being compos'd of Roo, Old, and
Si, a Child. The Soul of Kassobosats, Siaka's Companion and chief Disciple, is
believ'd to have by Transmigration dwelt in him; and yet his Doctrine is
entirely different from that of Kassobatz. Siaka taught his Followers the
Immortality of our Souls, the reward of our actions in a future Life, and how
necessary the Practice of Virtue in this Life, is to all who aim at a State of
Bliss in the next. Roosi, on the contrary, absolutely denied these important
Truths, and maintain'd that all our Happiness consists in living long and well.
In pursuance of these Notions he endeavour'd to find out by Alchymy an
universal Medicine, which could prolong his Life, if not render him immortal.
The same attempt was made afterwards by his Disciples, and the Adherents of his
Sect, with as good Success, as our European Philosophers can boast to have had
in their searches after the Philosopher's Stone. He liv'd 84 Years.
About this Time, in the Year before Christ 600,
foreign Idols were first brought into Japan, and worship'd in Khumano.
Synmu reign'd 79 Years, and
having secur'd the Throne to his Posterity, he died in the Is7th Year of his
Age. With his Reign begins the Japanese Aera Nin 0.
SUI SEI, Synmu's third Son, succeeded his Father in
the 80th Year of his Reign, the 580th before Christ, and the 51st of his Age. < [160]
In the 30th Year of his Reign, the 399th after the
Death of Siaka, and the 55ISt before our Saviour's Nati
vity, on the fourth Day of the eleventh Month, was
born in China, in the Province of Rokokf,the illustrious Philo sopher KOOSI,
and according to the Chinese Cumfusu, who is by our European Writers call'd
Confutius. The Chinese Writers mention, that at the time of his Birth a Music
was heard in Heaven, that the Stars came down nearer to the Earth, and that
when the Child was wash'd, two Dragons attended him; that Nature had mark'd his
Forehead with a small eminence, or pimple, like that of the Emperor Siun, that
his Face resembled that of the Emperor Gio, and that in short he had all the
marks of a future Sesin, that is, a Person of incomparable Understanding and
profound Learning. His Stature, when he came of Age,was majestick and noble,for
he was g.Sak and 6. Sun high. His writings, chiefly such as relate to moral
Philosophy, are not unknown in Europe. By his writings wherein he display'd all
his learning for the universal benefit of mankind, by his virtuous and
exemplary life, and by the great number of his disciples, who were never less
than 3000, he attain'd to such an eminent degree of fame and reputation among
hisownCountrymen,aswell as in Japan, that after his death Temples were erected
to his memory, wherein a profound adoration and almost divine worship is paid
him to this day. He died in the 74th. year of his age.
Sui Sei reign'd thirty three and liv'd eighty four
years. His Son ANNEI succeeded him in the vear of Synmu
'- tI3, before Christ 548, and the twentieth of his
age.
In the thirty second year of
his reign, which was the year before Christ 516, was born in China, in the Province
Rokokf, Ganquai, a very learned Man, and an eminent disciple of Confutius. It
is said of him, as something remarkable, that in the eighteenth year of his age
he turn'd perfectly grey, and look'd like an old man. He liv'd but thirty two
years. The Soul of Quosobosatz is believ'd to have by transmigration dwelt in
him.
Annei reign'd thirty eight
and lived full fifty seven years.
His second Son I TOKU
succeeded him in the year of Synmu 151, the St 1th before Christ, and the forty
fourth i year of his age.
In the fourth year of his
reign he remov'd his Court and Residence to Keitz where he died, after a reign
of thirty five years, in the seventy seventh year of his age.
His Son KOSIO succeeded him
in the year of Synmu
186, the 476
before Christ, and the thirty third of his j age.
In the fifth year of his reign a War arose between
the Provinces Jetz and Go, which is the first war mention'd in the Japanese
Histories.
He reign'd near eighty three years, and died in the
hundred and fifteenth year of his age.< [161]
His second Son KOAN succeeded him in the year of
Synmu 269, before Christ 392, and the thirty sixth year of his Age.
He remov'd his Residence to Muro in Farima, and some
years after to Khuroda.
Under his reign appear'd a Comet in China, and there
was such an Eclipse of the Sun in Japan, that the day, according to their
expression, was suddenly converted into a dark night
He reign'd hundred and one, and liv'd hundred and
thirty seven years.
His eldest Son KOREI, otherwise call'd Kosii,
succeeded him in the year of Synmu 37I, before Christ 290, and the fifty third
of his age.
In the sixth year of his Reign, which was the year
before Christ 284, the lake and river Oomi in the Province of this name sprung
up suddenly in one night.
In the thirty-third year of his reign, before Christ
257, was born in China the great Tyrant Sinosikwo.
In the forty-sixth year of his reign, before Christ
244 the Empire of Japan was first divided into thirty-six Provinces.
He reign'd 76 and liv'd 128 years.
His son KOOKIN succeeded him in the year of Synmu
447, before Christ 2I4, and the 60th of his age.
He remov'd his court and residence to Karutz.
About this time reign'd in China, Sikwo or Sino Siko
of the family of Cin, a Prince no less famous in Chinese and Japanese Histories
for his profuseness and magnifi cence, than he was dreaded by his subjects for
his unparallel'd cruelty and tyrannical Government. He came to the Throne of
China in the year before Christ 246, and died after a reign of thirty-seven
years, in the fiftieth year of his age. Of the many Instances of his lavishness
and tyranny, which are set down in my Japanese Authors, I will transcribe only
a few. He once caus'd a large Lake to be dug up, and to be fill'd with Chinese
Ricebeer, which being done, he sail'd over it in boats with his Mistresses
naked. He built the famous Chinese Wall, which is 300 German Miles long, to
secure his Empire against the irruptions of the Tartars. He sent 300 young Men,
and so many young Women beyond Sea, under the command of one of his Physicians,
who perswaded him to it, in order to look for, and to bring over the Plants and
other necessary Ingredients, for preparing an universal Medicine, which he was
very desirous to have. This Physician went over with his gallant Colony into
Japan, and settled there, far from harbouring any thoughts ever to return to
China. He built the famous Palace Kanjoku, which is as much as to say, a great
House resembling Heaven, the floors whereof were cover'd with Gold and Silver,
and the whole Palace so costly, large and magnificent, that afterwards it
turn'd into a Proverb. It was set on fire, and burnt in the year before Christ
205, by order of Kool, who set up against the family of Cin, and having put to
death the Emperor Syse,< [162] Sikwo's
successor, possess'd himself of the Throne. The Japanese and Chinese Histories
mention, that it burnt for the space of three months, before it was quite laid
in ashes, from whence its largeness and extent may be conjectur'd. He was
extreamly cruel with regard to his subjects, and thought the greatest torments
too small a punishment for even their most inconsiderable faults. On this
account he is mention'd as the first of the three famous Chinese Nero's,
Sinosiko, Katsuwo and Tsuwo, of ever dreadful memory.
Kookin reign'd 56, and liv'd
I16 years.
He was succeeded by his
second Son KAIKWO, or Kai Quo, in the year of Synmu 504, before Christ I 57,
and the fifty-second year of his Age.
This Emperor in the third
year of his reign remov'd his court and residence to Isagawa.
In the seventeenth year of
his reign, before Christ 140, three violent Earthquakes happen'd in China, and
the next year the moon appear'd of a purple colour.
In the nineteenth year of his
reign, before Christ I38, the first Nengo was begun in China, by the Emperor
Koo Bu, not long after his accession to the throne. Nengo is a particular Epoch
commonly dated from some remarkable incident, and express'd by two characters.
It is not limited to a certain number of years, but continues as long as the
Emperor pleases. The character of this first Nengo was Ken Ken.
He reign'd fifty-nine years,
and died at Isagawa III years old.
His Son SIUNSIN, or SIUSIN, succeeded him in the year
of Synmu 564, before Christ 97, and the s2d year of his age.
In the fourth year of his reign, before Christ 93, he
remov'd his court and residence to Siki.
In the seventh year of his reign, before Christ go,
was a great mortality in Japan.
In the eleventh year of his reign, before Christ 86,
was first erected the title and oflice of Seogun, who hath the direction of all
military affairs, and the command of the army in case of war, or rebellion. The
Emperor con ferr'd this title on one of his sons.
In the nineteenth year of his reign, before Christ
78, the first Fune, Merchant-ships and Men of War, were built in Japan.
In the sixty-eighth year of his reign two Moons were
seen in the East.
Siusin reign'd 68, and liv'd 119 years.
SYNIN, his third son, succeeded him in the year of
Synmu 632, before Christ, 29, and the 4tSt of his
age.
In the first year of his reign they had ripe Peaches
in China late in Autumn.
In the thirty-sixth year of
his reign it rain'd Stars from Heaven in Japan.< [163]
In the fortieth year of his
reign, on a clear and serene day, there arose of a sudden in China a violent
storm of thunder and lightning: Comets, Fiery-Dragons and uncommon Meteors
appear'd in the Air, and it rain'd fire from Heaven.
In the sixtieth year of his
reign they begun to make Fish-ponds in Japan, to cultivate Rice-fields, and to
inclose the same with ditches.
In the sixty-fifth year of
his reign, in the seventh month, many People were kill'd in China by lightning
and hail. This storm was follow'd by so dreadful a famine, that People kill'd
and eat one another.
In the eighty-eighth year of
his reign an extraordinary swift Horse was brought over from the Indies into
Japan. He could run a thousand miles a day. (A race between this Horse and the
famous Horse of Ali, would have been a very diverting sight.)
In the ninety-fifth year of his reign, Bupo, otherwise
call'd Kobotus, came over from the Indies into Japan, and brought over with
him, on a white Horse, the Kio or Book of his Religion and Doctrine. A temple
was afterwards erected to him, which is still call'd Fakubasi, or the Temple of
the White Horse. Ever since that time, the foreign Pagan worship of the Chinese
and other Nations begun to spread in Japan, and the number of temples and
religious houses was from time to time considerably increas'd.
The reign of this Emperor is the longest of any that
sat upon the throne of Japan, for he reign'd 98 years, and liv'd 139.
I must not forget, before I close this Chapter, to
take Notice: That in the 29th year of the reign of this Emperor, which was the
661 year of Synmu, the sixth and last year of the Chinese Emperor AI, by the
Chinese call'd HIAO N GAI TI, (who was then already expir'd and succeeded by
the Emperor HIAO PIM TI) and the second year of his last NENGO, was born
CHRIST, the Saviour of the World, and that in the 66th year of the reign of SY
NIN, which was the ninth year of the reign of the Chinese Emperor KWOO BU, he
was crucifynd, buried, and rose again from the dead, supposing that his death
happen'd in the 33d year of his Age.< [164]
Chap. IV. Of the Ecclesiastical Hereditary Emperors, who liv'd and govern'd with an unlimited Authority from the Birth of our Saviour to Joritomo, the first Secular Monarch.
EIKOO, Synin's third son, succeeded his
father in the year of Synmu 73I, the 7ISt k after our Saviour's Nativity, and
the 84th of his Age.
In the twenty third year of his reign a new
Island rose up near Japan, from the bottom of the Sea. It was call'd
Tsikubasima, and consecrated to Nebis, who is the Neptune of the Japanese.
Three years after a Mia, or Temple, call'd Takajanomia, was built upon the said
Island in honour of Nebis, and a sufficient number of Bonsey's or Priests
appointed to attend it. This Temple, in succeeding ages, became very famous and
rich, and the Island it self is said to have been always free from Earth
quakes.
He reign'd sixty years, and liv'd hundred
and forty three.
SEI MUU, his fourth Son succeeded him in
the year of Synmu 79I, of Christ 131, and the forty ninth of his age.
He remov'd his Court and Residence to Sigga
in the Province Oomi.
In the sixth year of his reign he settled
the confines of all the Provinces of his Empire.
He reign'd 60 years, and liv'd hundred and
eight.
TSI:UU AI, the second Son of Sei Mu's
Sister, (who was married to Jamatta Dakino Mikotta,) and Keko's Grandson,
succeeded him, in the year of Synmu 852, of Christ 192 and the forty fourth of
his age.
He made his way to the Throne by the murder
of Kumasi Usomu Kuno Mikotto.
He reign'd but nine years, and died fifty
two years old.
SINGUKOGU, or Dsin Guukwoo Guu, succeeded
him in the year of Synmu 861, of Christ 201, and the thirtieth of her age.
She was the deceased Emperors relict, and
besides entituled to the Succession, by the relation she bore, in the fifth
degree, to the Emperor Keikoo.
She carried on war against the Coreans, and
at the very beginning of her reign went over with a numerous Army, which she
commanded in person, but finding herself with child in a foreign Country, she
hasten'd back to Japan, and was brought to bed (in Tsikusen, in the Province
Mikassa, where she then resided) of a Son,< [165] who
was in his younger years call'd Wakono Oosi, but when he came of age, and to
the throne, Oosin Ten Oo, and after his death Tawatta Fatzman, which is as much
as to say, the Mars of Jamatta, having been for his heroic and virtuous actions
related among the Gods of the Country. She resided in Tsikusen, but frequently
remov'd her Court from one place of that Province to another. She died after a
glorious reign of seventy years, in the hundredth year of her age, and was
after her death related among the Goddesses of the Country by the name of
Kassino Dai Miosin.
During the reign of this Empress
Earthquakes, Rebellions, Robberies, and other Calamities desolated the Empire
of China.
OOSIN, or Woosin, her only Son succeeded
her, in the year of Synmu 930, of Christ 270, and the seventy first of his age.
He was a great Prince both in peace and
war, and a true Father of his Country, which he govern'd forty three years with
great prudence and clemency. He died hundred and thirteen years old, and was
after his death honour'd with the divine Title of Fatzman, which is as much as
to say, the Mars of the Japanese, and brother of Ten Sio Dai Sin.
NINTOKU, his fourth Son, succeeded him in
the year of Synmu 973, of Christ 313, and the twenty fourth of his age.
In the sixty eighth year of his reign a
monstrous Child was born in Fida with two faces, four arms, and four feet.
He was a good and virtuous Prince, very
much beloved by his Subjects, to whom he remitted the Taxes at different times.
He reign'd eighty seven, and liv'd 110
years. In Tsinokuni where there is a Temple built to his memory they call him
Naniwa Takakuno Mia Korefirano Dai Mio Dsin.
His eldest Son RITSIU succeeded him in the
year of Synmu 1060, of Christ 400, and the seventy second of his age.
He resided at Koos in the Province Jamatto.
He reign'd 6 years and died in the seventy
eight year of his age.
FAN SEI, his younger brother, and Nintokuzs
second Son, succeeded him in the year of Synmu I066, of Christ 406 and the
fifty fifth of his age.
He resided at Siwagaki in the Province
Kaawaats.
He reign'd eight years, and liv'd sixty
three.
INKIOO, Fansei's younger brother, and
Nintokuts youngest Son, succeeded his brother in the year of Synmu 1074 of
Christ 414, and the thirty ninth of his age.
He resided at Aska in Jamatto.
He sent over to China for a Physician of
that Country, to take care of his health.
He reign'd forty years, and died in the
eightieth year of his age.< [166]
ANKOO, Inkioo's second Son, succeeded his
Father in the year of Synmu 1114, of Christ 454, and the fifty fourth of his
age.
He resided in Jamatto.
His reign was but short, for in the third
year after his accession to the throne, Maijuwa, a near relation cf his,
rebell'd against him, conquer'd and kill'd him, in the fifty sixth year of his
age.
JUU RIAKU, Ankoo's younger brother, and
Inkioo's fifth Son succeeded him in the year of Synmu, 1117 cf Christ 457.
It is said of this Emperor, that he was
born grey. Hence it is perhaps, that some Authors put his accession to the
throne in the seventy first year of his age, which doth not agree with the
Chronology, and the age of the Emperours his Predecessors.
He revenged the death of his brother on
Maijuwa, or, as some call him Maijuwano o sin, whom he put to death.
In the seventh year of his reign he married
the Princess Wakaki, declar'd her Empress, and at the same time made a law,
which still subsists, importing, that the Children of that of the Dairis wives,
who was declar'd Empress, should be acknowledg'd as lawful Heirs of the Crown.
In the ninth year of his Reign the first
Putjes were coin'd in Japan by one Sinka.
He reign'd twenty three Years. How long he
liv'd is uncertain.
His second Son SE NE succeeded him in the
year of E Synmu 1140 of Christ 480. and the 37th of his age.
He reign'd but five years and liv'd forty
two.
GEN SOO, the Emperor Ritsius's Grandson,
suc- E ceeded Se Ne, in the year of Synmu I I45, of Christ 485, 6 and the 46th
of his age. He reign'd three years and resign'd. He liv'd 85 years.
His
Brother NINKEN succeeded him, in the year of Synmu 1148, of Christ 488, and the
4ISt of his age. He reign'd eleven years and liv'd fifty one.
His Son BURETZ succeeded him in the year of
2 Synmu 1159, of Christ 499.
He was a cruel and barbarous Prince. He
took great delight in cutting off People's Heads unawares. He ript open, with
his own barbarous hands, the bellies of women with child, on which occasion
'tis said that Fire fell from Heaven, and that the Emperor, to guard himself
against it, caus'd a room to be built all of stone. He gave many other
instances of his unparallel'd Cruelty. He pluck'd off peoplews nails from their
hands and feet, of which my Japanese Author says he order'd Spades to be made
for digging up roots. He tortur'd others, by plucking their hairs out of all parts
of their Body. Others he commanded to climb up high Trees, and when they were
got to the top of them, he would shoot at them with arrows, or order the Trees
to be sawid, or shaken, till they tumbled down, which< [167] gave him great diversion, and could make him laugh very heartily.
In this barbarous manner he reign'd eight years. How long he liv'd, and how he
died, is not mention'd.
KEI TEI succeeded him in the year of Synmu 1567, of Christ 507, and the 54th of his age.
He was the Emperor Oosin's great Grandson,
born of the Princess Fkoarusi, who was that Emperor's Grand daughter.
He resided at Tsutsuki, in the Province
Jamasijro from whence he remov'd his Court to Fotoguani in the same Province.
In the twelfth year of his reign, which was
the year of Christ 519, Darma, a great Devotee and Prophet of the Heathens, who
was the third Son of Kasiuwo, and the 28th Successor upon the holy See of
Siaka, came into China from Seitensiku, that is, the Western Heavenly Country,
whereby must be understood the Continent of India, which lies to the West of
China.
Kei Tei, died after a glorious Reign of
twenty seven years, in the eighty first year of his age. His death was
universally lamented. His Successor deified him in Jetsijsin, and honoured him
with the divine Title, Askano Dai Mio sin.
He was succeeded by his Son AN KAN, in the
year of Synmu Irg4, of Christ 534, and the
sixty-ninth of his age.
Ankan resided in Jamatto, and died after a
short reign of two years.
Three years after his death he was likewise
deified, and is now worship'd as protector of the Province Jamatto, by the Name
of Kimbo Senno Gongin.
SENKWA, his younger Brother succeeded him in the year of Synmu
1196, of Christ 536, he himself being already seventy years of age.
He remov'd his court and residence to
another place in the same Province.
He reign'd near four years, and died, after
he had first deifed his Brother, and acknowledg'd him as Tutelar God of
Jamatto.
:KIN MEI, or more elegantIy pronounc'd Kim Me, another Son of the
Emperor Ke Te, succeeded his Brother in the year of Synmu 1200, of Christ 540,
and the thirty second of his Age.
He resided in the little Province
Skinnokori.
He was a very religious Prince, and very
favourably inclin'd to the foreign Pagan Budsdo Worship, which during his reign
spread with great success in Japan, insomuch that the Emperor himself caus'd
several temples to be built to foreign Idols, and order'd the Idol of Buds, or
Fotoge, to be carv'd in Fakkusai that is in China.
My Japanese Author, mentions what follows,
as something very remarkable, and says, that it happenad in the thirty-first
year of his reign, and contributed very much to the advancement of the Budsdo
Religion. About a thousand years ago, says my Author, there was in Tsiutensiku
(that is< [168] the
Middle Tensiku, whereby must be understood the Country of the Malabarians, and
the Coasts of Cormandel in India) an eminent Fotoke, call'd Mokuren, a Disciple
of Siaka. About the same time the Doctrine of Jambadan Gonno Niorai (that is,
Amida, the great God and Patron of departed Souls) was brouCht over into China,
or Fakkusai, and spread into the neighbouring Countries. This Doctrine,
continues he, did now manifest itself also in Tsinokuni, or Japan, at a place
call'd Naniwa, where the Idol of Amida appear'd at the entry of a Pond,
environ'd with golden Rays, no body knowing how it was convey'd thither. The
pious Emperor in memory of this miraculous event, instituted the first Nengo in
Japan, and call'd it Konquo. The Idol itself was by Tonda Josijmitz, a Prince
of great Courage and Piety, carried into the Country of Sinano, and placed in
the Temple of Sinquosi, where it afterwards by the name of Sinquosi Norai (that
is the Norail or Amida of Sinquosi) wrought many great Mirades, which made that
Temple famous all over the Empire. Thus far my Japanese Author.
Kimme reign'd thirty-two and liv'd
sixty-three years.
He was succeeded by his second Son FIT
ATZU, cr E;INT ATZ, in the year of Synmu I232, of Christ 572.
My Author makes no mention of his Age, but
sets down the following remarkable events, which happen'd during his reign.
In the third year of his reign, on the
first day of the first month, was born, at the Emperor's court, 5otokttlis) the great Apostle of the Japanese. His
birth was preceeded and attended with several remarkable circum stances. His
Mother one night in a dream saw herself inviron'd with Celestial Rays, as
bright as the Sun, and heard the following Words address'd to her: I the holy
Gusobosatz must be born again to teach the world, and therefore I descend to
enter into thy Womb: UpDn which she awaked and found herself with child. Eicht
months after she heard the child speak distinctly in her womb, and in the
twelfth month she was, not only without any pain, but with great delight and
pleasure deliver'd of a Son, who was then nam'd Fatsisino, and after his death
call'd Tais and Sotoktais. The child very early gave tokens of his future
greatness and piety. Devotion and prayers were his greatest delight in his
tenderest years: When but four years old, and once in fervent prayers, the
bones and relicks of the burnt body of the great Siaka were in a miraculous
manner deliver'd into his hands.
The Idol Worship in general increas'd
greatly in Japan during this Emperor's reign. Abundance of Idols, and Idol-carvers,
and Priests, came over from several Countries beyond Sea.
In the sixth year of his reign an Edict was
made publick, importing, that on six several days of each month all living
creatures whatsoever should be set at liberty, and that those of his subjects,
who had none, would do well to buy some on purpose, that they should not want
opportunities on those days to give publick proofs of their merciful
disposition towards these Creatures.< [169]
In the eighth year of his reign the first
Image of Siaka was brought over from beyond Sea, and carried to Nara into the
Temple of Kobusi, where it is still kept in great veneration, possess'd of the
chief and most eminent place in that Temple.
In the fourteenth year of his reign, one
Moria, a great Antagonist and profess'd Enemy of Sotoktais occasion'd great
troubles and religious dissensions in the Empire. He bore a mortal hatred to
all the Fotoge, or Idols of the Country, which he took out of the Temples and
burnt, wherever he could come iat them. But within two years time his Enemies
got the better of him, for he was overcome, and paid with his life for his
presumptuous Enterprize. 'Tis added, that having thrown the ashes of the Idols,
which he had burnt, into a lake, there arose suddenly a most dreadful Storm of
thunder, lightning and rain.
He reign'd fourteen years. How long he
liv'd is not known.
He was succeeded by JOO MEI, his fourth
Son, in the year of Synmu, 1246, of Christ 586.
My Author is entirely silent about the age
of this Emperor, and that of some of his successors.
Under his reign Moria was defeated and
kill'd, and the Temple Sakatatina built in the small Province Tamatsukuri, in
memory of this event. He reign'd only two years.
SIU SIUN, his Brother, succeeded him in the
year of Synmu 1248, of Christ 588.
In the third year of his reign, in the
seventh month, the Empire of Japan was first divided into seven large tracts of
land, callad Goki Sitzi Do, which division (whereof I have given a more
particular account, in the fifth Chapter of the first Book) still subsists, and
is to be observ'd in all their Maps.
He reign'd five years and dy'd.
SUIKO, or Syko, the Emperor Kimme's second
Daughter, and the Emperor Fitatz his Relict, succeeded Siusiun on the throne,
in the year of Synmu 1253, of Christ 593.
In the fifth year of her reign, a foreign
Prince (of Fakusai) came over to her court, purely to pay his respects to
Sotoktais.
In the sixth year of her reign, a Crow and
Peacock brought over from beyond Sea, as a present to the Empress. Both kinds
are still subsisting, and the Crows particularly multiplied to such a degree,
that at present they do a great deal of mischief.
In the seventh year of her reign, all Japan
was shook by Earthquakes in a dreadful manner, and vast numbers of Buildings
were overthrown and swallow'd up.
The next year fire fell from Heaven, and
after that, such a quantity of rain, that many towns were set under Water.
In the tenth year of her reign, a religious
Book, call'd Rekkotoso, was brought over from Fakkusai. < [170]
In the twelfth year, the Empress caus'd a
Statue of Siaka to be cast in Brass. This Statue was afterwards melted down to
coin Money, and another of plaister, or Stuck, put into its place. The same
year, Gold was first brought over into Japan from Corea.
In the twenty-first year of her reign,
Darma is said to have appear'd to Sotoktais, in the Province Jamatta, on the
mountain Katta Joka; and 'tis added, that they made verses extempore, one upon
another.
In the twenty-eighth year of her reign, on
the twentysecond day of the second month, died Sotoktais in the forty-ninth
year of his age.
In the thirty-fifth year of her reign, a
swarm of strange Flies was observed in the Country, which made a great humming
noise, and did much mischief.
Suiko died after a reign of thirty-six
years.
DSIOME, the Emperor Fitatz his Grand-son,
succeeded her, in the year of Synmu 1289, of Christ 629.
He resided in Jamatto.
In the third year of his reign, on the
first day of the first month, was born in Japan the great Devotee Gienno Giosa,
founder of the religious order of Japanese Hermits, or Jammabos, as they are
call'd, that is, MountainPriests, or Religious Persons living in the mountains,
woods and desarts. The same year appear'd a Comet.
(A
full account of this order is given in the fifth Chapter of the third Book of
this History.)
In the twelfth year of his reign, on the
seventh day of the second month, a Star was observ'd in the Moon. He reign'd
twelve years.
KWOOGOKU, his Imperial Consort, and the I
Emperor Fitatz's daughter by adoption, succeeded him in the year, of Synmu
1302, of Christ 642. C
In
the second year of her reign, five differing colours were observ'd in the sky.
The same year in the fourth month, there fell a great deal of Hail.
She
reign'd three years.
KOO TOKU, her younger Brother, succeeded
her in the year of Synmu I305, of Christ 645.
He remov'd his Miaco, or residence and
court, to Nagora Tojosaki.
He was the first that honour'd his
Ministers, and other Officers of his Court, with titles and marks of
distinction, according to their several ranks and stations. He also regulated,
after what manner due respect should be paid to Secular persons, not belonging
to his court, but plac'd in civi1 Employments.
The years being till then computed only by
the Nin O Epocha, or from the beginninZ of the reign of Synmu, the founder of
the Japanese Monarchy, he brought shorter Periods, call'd Nengo's, in use, and
order'd the same to be observ'd throughout his Empire. These Nengo's however
were not of his own invention, but introduced by him in imitation of the < [171] Chinese, where they had been in use for several Centuries, having
been begun by the Chinese Emperor Koo Bu, soon after his accession to the
throne, about 140 years before our Saviout's Nativity. They are compos'd, as I
have shewn above, of two Characters, and commonly dated from some remarkable
event. As it lies wholly in the Emperor's will and pleasure to begin and to
characterize them, so he can let them continue as long as he pleases, or till
some remarkable alteration in church or state gives birth to a new one. In their
Letters, Books of aCconnts almanacks, and in daily conversation, these Nengo's
are commonly made use of, it being much the easier and shorter way of
computing. In their Annals and His tories, and other printed Books, the year of
Nino is added. The first Nengo was Fakutsij, and begun with the sixth year of
the reign of this Emperor, which was the year of Synmu I3I0, of Christ 6So. It
continuZd twenty two years, viz, to the first year of the reign of the Emperor
Ten Mu.
He reign'd ten years.
SI ME, Kwoo Goku's daughter, an unmarried
Princess, succeeded her Uncle in the year of Synmu 1315, of Christ 645.
She soon remov'd her court and residence to
Fonga in Jamatto, and in the last year of her reign to Asakura.
She reign'd seven years, during which time
her Unclens first Nengo was continued.
TENItSII, Dsiome's Son, and the Empress
Kwoo Goku's her Itoku, succeeded Si Me in the year of Synmu 132t, of Christ
662. (Itokuts are as much as Cousins, or the Father's or Mother's Brother or
Sister's Son.)
In the fourth year of his reign, was built
the famous Temple See Guansi, and its chief Idol carved by that famous Master
Kassiga, who for his incomparable skill in this sort of workmanship, was
sainted after his death.
In the sixth year of his reign, he remov'd
his court and residence to Siga, in the Province Ootz.
In the tenth vear of his reign a monstrous
Stag with eight Legs was shewn in the Province Tsikugo. He reign'd ten years.
TEN MU his younger Brother succeeded him in
the year of Synmu 1332, of Christ 672.
It was not without great trouble and
difficultv this Emperor got himself possess'd of the Throne, which waS disputed
him by his younger Brother Oto Mo No Oosi, who resolv'd to maintain his claim
to the crown by force of arms, and at the head of a numerous army. But this
unhappy Pretender was entirely defeated in five month's time) when out of
despair he ript open his own belly. His body was honourably interr'd in the
Temple Okamotto, situate in the Province Jamatto, in the ninth month of his
Brother's reign.< [172]
In memory of this Victory Ten Mu instituted
the Nengo Fakwo, which continued fourteen years, till the beginning of the
third Nengo Siuwu.
In the second year of his reign, was built
the famous Temple Midera The same year the holy Book Issaikio, which is a sort
of a Prayerbook, was brought over from China.
In the third year of his reign, Silver was
brought over from Tsussima, where they had begun to dig and to work it.
In the fourth year of his reign, on the
fourth day of the fourth month, the first Matsuri was celebrated at Nara and
Tatzta, which Example was afterwards followed by stveral other places in the
Empire. Matsuri is a great festival day, celebrated in honour of that God, who
is acknowleda'd as the particular Patron and Protector of a Place, and it is
celebrated with all the Pomp and Splendour imaginable, with solemn Processions,
pompous Plays, Dances, musical Concerts, and other Diversions.
In the seventh year of his reign, in the
sixth month, fell Hail as big as Peaches.
In the eighth year they had ripe Peaches at
Ikedamura, in the first month, which falls in with our February.
The same year, on the third day of the
eleventh month, the Sky appeared very luminous to the East, and as it were all
in a flame.
In the ninth year, the use of silver Money
was forbid, and in its stead brass Sennis coin'd, which are by foreigners
call'd Puties.
About this time the Empire of Japan was
divided into sixty six Provinces. (The Islands Iki and Tsussima, which formerly
belong'd to the Kingdom of Corea, having been conquer'd and annex'd to the
Empire of Japan, in the preceeding Century, there are now in all sixty eight
Provinces.)
In the thirteenth year of his reign, on the
fourteenth day of the tenth month, happen'd a violent EarthquakeJ
In the fourteenth year of his reign, a new
Nengo, call'd Suiwu, was instituted, which continu'd but one year.
The same year, the Emperor died, on the
ninth day of the ninth month. His death occasion'd fresh Troubles at the Ecclesiastical
Court, rais'd about the Succession by Ootzno Osi.
DSI TO, the Emperor Tenmu's Imperial
Consort, and also his Neice, succeeded her Husband and Uncle, the pretensions
of ()otzno Osi notwithstanding, in the year of Synmu I347, of Christ 687. She
resided at Fusiwara in Jamatto.
In the sixth year of her reign, the first
Sakki, or Rice Beer, was brew'd in Jekisinokori, in the Province Oomi. She
reign'd ten years.
She was succeeded by MONMU, Ten Mu's
Grandson, in the year of Synmu I357, of Christ 697.< [173]
Soon after his accession to the Throne he
begun a new Nengo, call'd Gen, which continu'd four years, and was followid by
the Nengos, Tenpo of three years, and Keewuun of four years, but little us'd.
He was the first that granted Tsiaps, or
particular Coats of Arms, to each Province, which was done in the eighth year
of his reign.
In the ninth year he caus'd a square
measure, (by the Japanese call'd Seo and Maas, by the Dutch Ganten, three of
which contain exactly four pound of Rice, Dutch weight) to be made of wood, and
to be sent as a Pattern into all the Provinces of his Empire, with strict
orders that thenceforward it should be a standard for measuring of Rice, Corn,
and other Grain. He reign'd eleven years.
GENMEI, the Emperor Tentsij his Daughter succeeded
him by virtue of her hereditary right, in the year of Synmu 1368, of Christ
708. She resided at Nara.
She instituted a new Nengo, Wat To, which
continu'd seven years, till the Nengo Reiki.
In the first year of her reign, she order'd
Money to be coin'd in Gold and Silver, but the latter was again prohibited the
next year. The same first year was born Abenokamar, a Prince of the Imperial
blood, very famous in Japanese Histories.
In the third year of her reign was built
the famous Temple Koobokusi, where there is an Idol of Siaka, cast in a mixt
metal of brass and gold, by the great Master Taisoquan.
In the sixth year of her reign she settled
the Names of all the Provinces, Cities and Villages throughout the Empire, and
order'd that they should be enter'd into the publick Records.
She reign'd seven years, and died.
She was succeeded by GENSIOO, the Emperor i
Tenmuts Granddaughter by his Son, in the year of Synmu 1375, of Christ
715, in the ninth month.
This Empress instituted the Nengos Reiki of
two, and Jooro of seven years.
Her reign is particularly famous for the
miraculous appearance of the Gods, Khumano Gongin, Amida, Jakusi, Sensiu
Quamwon, and Bissammonten, in several parts of the Empire.
In the fifth year of her reign she made new
regulations concerning the dress of women.
She reign'd nine years, and resign'd the
Crown to Sioomu her Brother's Son. She livid twenty five years after her
resignation, and died in the forty eighth year of her age, and the year of
Synmu 1408 in the fourth month.
SIOOMU came to the Crown, by his Aunt's
resignation, in the year of Synmu I384, of Christ 724.< [174]
He first resided at Nara, from whence he
remov'd to Naniwa, four years before his death.
He instituted the Nengo Sinki in the first
year of his reign, which lasted five years, and was followid by the Nengo
Tempe, which continu'd twenty.
In the eighth year of his reign, the
Japanese Histories mention, that the Sea upon the Coasts of Kij looked red,
like blood, for five days successively, and that the ensuing year follow'd
dreadful storms, a great drought and a sterile crop, particularly in the
Gokokf, which occasion'd a great famine.
In the thirteenth year, the Small-Pox was
very mortal in all parts of the Empire. (The Japanese Physicians distinguish
between three sorts of the Small-Pox. What we properly call the Small-Pox, is
by them call'd Fooso, another sort is call'd Fasika, these are the Measles. The
third kind is call'd Kare, which is as much as to say, Watry Pustules. They
think it very material, in the cure of the Small-Pox, to wrap up the patient in
red cloth. When one of the Emperor's Children falls sick of this Distemper, not
only the room and bed are furnish'd with red, but all persons that come near
the Patient, must be clad in gowns of the same colour. The great Pox is not
unknown in Japan, and they call it Nambankassa, that is, the Portuguese
Disease.)
In the sixteenth year of his reign, they
began to build Nunneries in Japan.
In the twentieth year was built the great
Temple of Daibods.
Sioomu reign'd in all twenty five years.
He
was succeeded by his Daughter KOOKEN, in the year of Synmu I409) of Christ 749)
on the second daf7 of the seventh month.
Whether or no she was married, is not
mentioned in my Authors.
With her reign begun the NengoTempe Seofo,or
Foosi, which continued eight years till the Nengo Tempo Singo.
In the first year of her reign, Gold was
first dug up in Osio, and presented to the Empress. This Metal had been till
then imported from China.
In the fourtn year of her reign she built
the Temple Toodaisi, pursuant to a Vow made by the late Emperor her Father, who
was by his death prevented to accomplish it. Upon the consecration of this
Temple, one Giogij in his prayers desir'd the assistance of Barramoas, an
eminent God in the western parts of the Indies (with regard to Japan) who
accordingly came over in a miraculous manner, and appear'd to him that very
instant.
About the same time was built Isia Jamma.
In the ninth year of her reign, she begun a
new Nengo, called Tempe Singo, which subsisted during the remaining part of her
reign, and during the reign of her Successor, in all eight years. < [175]
She reign'd ten years.
She was succeeded by FAI TAI, the Emperor
Ten l Mu's great Grandson, and the seventh Child of Tonneri ffi Sin 0, in
the year of Synmu I4I9) of Christ 759.
Nothing remarkable happen'd during his
reign, but that in the third year he remov'd his court and residence to Fora in
Oomi, in the fourth to Tairanokio, and in the sixth to Fairo in the Province
Awadsi.
He reign'd six years.
SEO TOKU, the Empress Kooken's eldest
daughter, w succeeded him in the year of Synmu 1425, of Christ 765.
She begun with her reign a new Nengo, which
she calld Sinkoke Un, and which continued two years, till the Nengo Fooke,
which continued three years.
During her reign was born Kiamar, who
afterwards became a very eminent Kuge, or a great Man at Court.
She reign'd five years.
KOONIN, Ten Tsij's Grandson, succeeded her
in the year of Synmu 1430, of Christ 770.
With his reign began the Nengo, call'd Fooki,
which subsisted eleven years.
In the second year of his reign, there
happen'd a storm of thunder and lightning, dreadful beyond Expression. It
rain'd fire from Heaven, like stars, and the air was fill'd with a frightful
noise. The Emperor for this reason order'd Matsuri's, or solemn festivals and
processions, to be celebrated in all parts of the Empire, to honour and to
appease the angry Jakusi, or the evil Spirits, who have the command of the air
and fields.
In the fifth year of his reign was born Kobotais,
an eminent Priest and great Saint arnong the Japanese.
In the eighth year the River Fuju Usingava
dried quite up.
In the tenth year died in China, Abeno
Nakemar, a Man very famous in Japanese Histories.
In the same tenth year a dreadful fire
broke out at Miaco, which destroy'd all the Temples of that City.
In the eleventh year he appointed a new
Nengo, which he call'd Tenwo, and which subsisted but one year.
He reign'd in all but twelve years.
He was succeeded by his son KWAN MU, in the
year of Synmu I442, of Christ 782, and the forty-sixth of his age.
Soon after his accession to the Throne he
begun a new Nengo call'd Jenriaku, which subsisted twenty-four years.
In the third year of his reign he remov'd
his court and residence to Nagajoka in Jamasijro, and eleven years after to
Fejanssoo.
In the sixth year of his reign a foreign
people, who were not Chinese, but natives of some further distant Country, came
over to invade Japan in a hostile manner. The Japanese did what they could to
get rid of< [176] them, but to little purpose, their losses being constantly made
good by fresh recruits. Nine years after their arrival Tamamar, a renown'd and
brave General, was sent againSt them with good success, for he reduced them
very low, and kill'd their Troji or Commander in chief. Howover they held out
for some time after, and were not entirely defeated till the year of Synmu
I466) eighteen years after their first arrival.
Quanmu reigned 24 years, and died 70 years
old.
He was succeeded by his eldest son FEI DSIO,
in the year of Synmu 1496, of Christ 806.
Nothing remarkable happen'd during his
reign, but that a new Nengo begun with it, which was call'd Taito, and
subsisted four years. He reign'd four years, and died.
He was succeeded by his younger brother
SAGA, the Emperor Quanmu's second son, in the year of Synmu 31470, of Christ
810.
Soon after his accession to the throne he
begun the Nengo Koonin, which continued to his death, for the space of fourteen
years, during which time nothing remarkable happen'd but that several stately
Ssin, or Mija's, and Budsussi, or Tira, that is, Temples of the Gods of the
Country and of foreign Idols were erected in several parts of the Empire.
He reign'd in all fourteen years.
He was succeeded by his younger brother
SIUN WA, j who was the Emperor Quanmu's third Son. in the vear of ' Synmu 1484,
of Christ 824.
He follow'd the customs of his
Predecessors, in appointing a new Nengo soon after his accession to the throne,
which was call'd Ten Tsio, and subsisted ten years.
In the second year of his reign, my Author
observes, that Urasima return'd from Foreisan to Japan in the 348th year of his
age. He had liv'd all the while under water, with the Water-Gods, where they
believe, that people do not grow old.
Siunwa reign'd ten years.
NINMIO succeeded him in the year of Synmu
I494, of Christ 834.
This Emperor was Saga's second Son, and
Siunwa's Oi, or Nephew by his Brother.
In the first year of his reign, he
appointed the Nengo Sioa, which continued fourteen years, and was follow'd by
the Nengo Kassoo, which subsisted three years. He reign'd seventeen years.
MONTOKU, or Bontoku, his first-born Son suc
ceeded him, in the year of Synmu 1511, of Christ 851.
After his accession to the throne, he
appointed the Nengo Ninsiu, which continued three years, and waS follow'd by
the Nengo's Saije and Tenjan, the first of three, the second of two years. < [177]
In the fourth year of his reign, several
violent Earth quakes happen'd in Japan, by one of which, on the fifth day of
the fifth month, the head of the great Daibuts, or Idol of Siaka, was thrown
down to the ground in his Temple at Miaco. Montoku reign'd eight years.
He was succeeded by his fourth Son SEIWA,
in the year of Synmu 1819, of Christ 859.
He follow'd his Predecessors, in appointing
a new Nengo after his accession to the throne, which was callzd Toquam, and
subsisted eighteen years.
In the fifth year of this Emperor's reign,
the Books of the illustrious Chinese Philosopher Confutius were first brought
to Court, read and well liked.
In the ninth year of his reign, was born in
Jamatto, Isje, a daughter of Tsike Kugu, a Prince of the Imperial Blood. This
Lady became afterwards very famous for her uncommon Learning, of which she gave
a proof to the world by writing a Book, which is highly esteem'd in Japan to
this day.
Seiwa reign'd eighteen years, and resign'd
the crown to his son.
He died four years after his abdication, on
the 8th day of the fifth month.
JO SEI, Sewa's eldest Son, was but nine
years old, when his Father resign'd the crown to him in the year of Synmu 1537,
of Christ 877.
With his reign a new Nengo was begun, which
subsisted eight years, and was call'd Genjwa.
The crown was so great a burthen to this
Emperor, that in a short time he lost his senses. For this reason the Quanbuku,
as he is, call'd, or Prime Minister, who is the first person after the Emperor,
thought it necessary to depose him, which was done accordingly, after he had
reign'd eight years. And
KOOKO, the Emperor Nimio's second Son,
and
Montoku's younger Brother, was put
into his place, in
the year of Synmu
1545, of Christ 885.
In the first year of his reign, in the
seventh month, it rain'd Sand and Stones, which destroy'd almost the whole crop
of rice.
With his reign begun the Nengo Ninwa, which
lassed four years.
He reign'd but three years.
He was succeeded by his third Son UDA, in
the year 2 of Synmu 1548, of Christ 888.
This Emperor in the second year of his
reign, appointed a new Nengo call'd Quanpe, which continu'd nine years. < [178]
The same year there fell much rain all the
Summer, by which, and by great floods ensuing, the growth of the field suffer'd
much, to the great prejudice of the Harvest.
He reign'd ten years.
His eldest Son DAI GO, succeeded him in the
year of z Synmu I558, of Christ 898. i
The STengo's appointed by this Emperor
were, Sootai of three years, at the beginning of his reign, Jengi of two and
twenty years, and Jentsjo of eight.
In the first year of his reign, on the
third day of the sixth month, it became of a sudden so dark (probably by a total
Eclipse of the Sun) that People could not see one another.
In the second year, died Somme Donno, who
was declar'd Kissaki, that is, the supreme Woman, which is the title given to
that of the Dairi's Women, whom he declares Empress, and who is the mother of
the presumptive Heir of the Crown.
In the sixteenth year, on the second day of
the fifth
month, a fire broke out at Miaco,the
Emperor's residence which consum'd 617 Houses. . '
In the twenty-sixth year a Hare with eight
legs was sent to court out of the Province Jamatto.
He reign'd in all thirty-three years.
He was succeeded by SIUSAKU, his twelfth
Child in the year of Synmu 1591 of Christ 931.
This Emperor appointed two Nengo's, one
Seofei, at the beginning of his reign, which subsisted seven years, and another
Tenkei, which continued nine years to his death.
In the second year of his reign Massakaddo,
a Prince of the Imperial Blood, and one of the chief men at Court revolted
against him. This rebellion could not be suppress'd till seven years after,
when Massakaddo was defeated and kill'd.
In the third year of his reign on the
twenty seventh dav of the stventh month happen'd a violent Earthquake, and
another in the seventh year, on the fifteenth day of the fourth month. During
his reign, Japan was much troubled with Storms of thunder and lightning, which
fell upon several Temples and religious Houses, and laid them in ashes.
Particularly in the thirteenth year of his reign, the storms were almost
universal in all the Provinces of the Empire.
He reign'd sixteen years.
:He was succeeded by Murakami, the Emperor
Dai Go's fourteenth Child, in the year of Synmu 1607, of Christ 947.
This Emperor, after his accession to the
throne, begun a new Nengo call'd Tenriaku, which subsisted ten years, and was
follow'd by the< [179] Nengo's Tentoku of four, Oowa of three, and Koosu of four years
standing.
In the fourteenth year of his reign a kind
of Synod, or Council, was held at Court in the great hall Seiro deen, about
matters of Religion, whereat were present the Heads of the several Sects then
existing. He reign'd twenty-one years.
He was succeeded by REN SEI, or according
to D another Author Rei Sen, his second Son, who came to the R Crown in the
sixty first year of his age, which was the year of Synmu 1628) of Christ 968.
He reign'd but two years, during which time
continued the Nengo Anwa, which begun with his reit n.
JENWO, or, as others pronounce it Jen Jo,
his
younger brother, and the Emperor
Muracami's fifth Son, J succeeded him in the year of Synmu 1630) of Christ 970.
The Nengo's of his Reign were, Tenrok of
three years, begun with his accession to the throne, Teijen likewise of three
years, Teiquan of two years, Tengen of five years, and lastly Jeiquan of two
years.
He reign'd in all fifteen years.
KUASSAN, or Kwassan, the Emperor Rense's
first
Son, and Jenwo's Nephew,
succeeded him in the year of
Synmu
1645) of Christ 985, and the seventeenth of his age.
He made a new Nengo, after he came to the
Crown, which was call'd Genwa and continued only two years.
In the second year of his reign, which was
the second of the said Nengo, he was suddenly taken with such a desire of
retirement and a religious life, that he left his palace privately in the night
time, and retired into the Monastery of Quansi, where he caus'd himself to be
shav'd like the rest of the Monks, and took the name of Nigugakf Foogu. In this
Monastery he liv'd twenty two years, and was forty one years old, when he died.
ITSI DSIO, The Emperor Jenwo's Son, and the
late Emperors Cousin succeeded him, after his retiring into a Convent, in the
year of Synmu 1647, of Christ 987.
The Nengo's appointed during his Reign
were, Jejen of two, Jengen of one, Soorak of five, Tsio Toku of four, Tsioofo
of five, and Quanko of eight years.
In the eighth year of his reign there was a
great mortality all over Japan.
His reign was famous for several eminent
and learned Men, who then flourish'd at Court..
He reign'd twenty five years.
He was succeeded by SANDSIO, the Emperor
Renseus second Son, in the year of Synmu 1672, of Christ 1012. < [180]
He appointed the Nengo Dsio A, which
subsisted fifte years.
In the third year of his reign his
residence burnt down as did a great part of it a year after.
He reign'd five years, and died 5r years old.
He was succetded by GO ITSI DSIO, that is,
It si Dsio the second, who was the second son of Itsi Dsio the first, and came
to the Crown in the year of Synmu 1677, of Christ 1017, and the ninth of his
age.
The Nengo's appointed by this Emperor were,
Quanin, of four years, begun with his accession to the throne, Tsijan of three
years, Mansju of four, and Tsiooquan of nine.
In the fifth year of his reign, Sai Sin
first obtain'd leave of the Emperor to be carried about in a Khuruma, or
coverGd Chariot, drawn by two Oxen, which was so well lik'd that the whole
Ecclesiastical Court soon followid his Example.
The same year, on the 22d day of the 7th
month, there was a violent storm, which did abundance of mischief. The same
month two Moons were seen in China.
In the sixth year of his reign the Jeki, or
Plague was very fatal all over the Empire.
In the12th year of his reign, in the fourth
month (which answers to our June) there fell a great quantity of Snow, which
cover'd the ground to the height of four Sak and five Suns, that is about four
foot and a half.
In the nineteenth year of his reign, on the
ninth day of the eighth Month, there was again a very violent storm.
He reign'd in all twenty years.
GOSIUSAKU, that is, Siusaku the second,his
younver Brother, succeeded him in the year of Synmu 1697) of Christ 1037, and
the 28th of his age.
The Nengos by him appointed were Tsioraku
of three
years, Tsiokiu of four years, and Quantoku
of two years.
In the fifth year of his reign, on the
first day of the first month, happenvd a violent Earthquake.
He reign'd nine years, and died
thirty-seven years old.
He was succeeded by his eldest son GO REI
SEN, L or Re Sen the II, in the year of Synmu 1706, of Christ o46, and the seventeenth of his Age.
The Nengo's appointed during his reigri
were, Jeiso of seven, Tenki of five, Feiko of seven, and Tsioku of four years.
In the 13th year of his reign Joori Ije
rebell'd against the Emperor in the Province Osju. The Rebels kept their ground
for five years, till Jori-Josj, Crown-General, and Commander in chief of all
the Imperial Troops, defeated them, and kill'd their two brave Generals Abino
Sadato, and Takano Munto. This Rebellion is deserib'd at large in a Book calld
Osju Gassen, or the Wars in Osju.< [181]
He reign'd 23 years, and died 40 years old.
He was succeeded by GO SAN DSIO, or Sandsio
the second, his younger Brother and Gosiusaku his second
Son, in the year of Synmu 1729, of Christ 1069.
He appointed the Nengo Jenkui, which
subsisted five years.
He reign'd but four years, and died in the
40th year of his age.
He was succeeded by SIIRAKAWA, his eldest
son, in the year of Synmu 1733, of Christ ro73.
The Nengo's appointed by him were, Seofo of
three vears, begun in the second year of his reign, Seoriaku of four years,
Teefo and Ootoku each of three years.
In the ninth year of his reign, the Summer
was exceeding dry, which very much prejudic'd the growth of the fields.
He reign'd fourteen years.
He was succeeded by his second Son
FORIKAWA, in the vear of Synmu 1747, of Christ Io87.
The Nengo's appointed during this Emperor's
reiVn were (Quansi of seven years, begun after his accession to the throne,
Kassoo of two years, Jetsio of one, Sootoku of two years, Kooa of five, Tsioosi
and Kassio, each of two years.
He reign'd in all 21 years, and died 30
years old.
He was succeeded by his eldest Son TO BA,
in the year of Synmu 1768) of Christ 1108.
This Emperor's Nengo's were, Tennin of two,
Tenjei of three, Jeikju of five, Guanje of two, and Foan of four years.
In the first year of his reign, a strange
noise was heard in the air, as if Drums had been beating, which continud for
several days together.
In the second year of the Nengo Fooan,
which was the fourteenth of his reign, was born Kijomori, a Prince of the
Blood, very famous in Japanese Histories. He assum'd the title of Dairi, or
Emperor, and made himself a court of his adherents, after the manner of the
Dairi's own Court, but not being able to maintain his title and dignity, he was
forcad to fly to the famous Convent Midira, on the mountain Jeesan, where the Monks
protected him against the Imperial Court, and his enemies headed by Feki: Soon
after he caus'd himself to be shav'd in order to turn Monk, and took the name
of Siookai. He liv'd fourteen years in this Convent, and died in the 60th year
of his age, which was the year of Synmu1841, on the fourth day of the second
month, of a malignant burning Feaver, which made him look red, as if he had
been all on fire, a just punishment, as m~~Japanese Author observes, of his
presumptuous revolt against his lawful Sovereign.
To Ba reign'd 16 years.
He was succeeded by his eldest son SINTO KU
in the year of Synmu 1784, of Christ 1124.< [182]
The Nengo's appointed bv this Emperor were
Tentsi of seven years, Tensio of one, Tsiooso of three, Fojen of six years, and
Jeeitsi of one.
He reign'd eighteen years.
Under his reign was built the Town of
Kamakura.
He was succeeded by his youngest Brother
KONTJEI,
the Emperor Toba's eighth Son,
in the year of Synmu 21802, of Christ 1142.
The Nengo's appointed during his reign were
Kootsi of two, TenJo of one, Kiuan of six, Nimpe of three, and Kijsu of two
years.
Under this Emperor liv'd Jorimassa, a
Prince of the Imperial Blood, and another Japanese Hercules. By the assistance
of Fatzman, who is the Mars of the Japanese, he kill'd, with his arrows, the
infernal Dragon Nuge, who had the head of a Monkey, the tail of a Serpent, and
the body and claws of a Tiger. This monstrous Beast inhabited the Mikaddo's own
Palace, and was very troublesome both to his sacred Person and to all his Court,
particularly in the night time, frighting them and disturbing them out of their
sleep. This Jorimassa was twenty seven years after, in the civil wars carried
on between the four most powerful families of the Empire, particularly the Feki
and Gendsij, overcome by his enemies, and extirpated with his whole family.
This long and bloody War, which desolated the Empire for many years, till the
entire suppression of the Feki party, and the death of the Prince, who was at
their head, and whom the Gendsijs kill'd with all his family, is at large and
fully describ'd in a Book entituled, Fekinowonogatari that is, an account of
what happenid in the War with the Feki's.
In the sixth year of his reign, on the 22d
day of the seventh month, appear'd a Comet.
In the tenth year of his reign, which was
the fourth year of the Nengo Kiuan, was born at Court Joritomo, the first great
Seogun, or Crown General. The ensuing civil wars, which desolated the Japanese
Empire, and were like to have tore it to pieces, gave him an opportunity of
encreasing his power and authority to that detree, that he is unanimously
mention'd by the Japanese Historians, as
the first of the now reigning secular
Monarchs. It was about that time the supreme and unlimited authority of the
Dairi's, or Ecclesiastical Hereditary Emperors, which they had fully enjoy'd
till then, begun to decline. The Princes of the Empire, govern'd by ambition,
jealousy and envy, abandon'd by degrees the duty and allegiance they ow'd to
their Sovereign, assumed an absolute pOwer in the government of their Dominions
and Principalities enter'd into alliances for their own defence, and carried on
war one against another, to revenge what injuries they did, or fancied to have
received. In this disposition of affairs Joritomo was sent by the Emperor, at
the head of a numerous army, and with an absolute power to adjust the
differences, and to terminate the wars between the Princes of the Empire. It is
a known Maxim,< [183] supported by the experience of all ages, that men entrusted with
power seldom care to part with it. This was the case of Joritomo, who gladly
embracing so favourable an opportunity, as was put into his hands, espous'd the
interest of that of the contending parties, which he thought the most likely to
support his own, and by this means encreased his power to that degree, as not
only to arrogate to himself an absolute authority in the decision of all the
secular affairs of the Empire, but to leave to his Successors a plausible
pretext to claim the same. Thus the Power of the Ecclesiastical Hereditary
Emperors receivid at first a fatal shock by the disobedience and quarrels of
the Princes of the Empire, and was at last entirely taken from them by the
usurpation of their Crown Generals, tho' without prejudice to their supreme
Dignity, Rank, Holiness, and some other Rights and Prerogatives, which do not
properly relate to the government of the secular affairs of the Empire, as will
appear more fully in the following Chapter.
Chap. V. Of the Ecclesiastical Hereditary Emperors, who liv'd after
Joritomo, to the present time.
ON JE was succeeded by his elder Brother i!
GOSIIRAKAWA, or Sijrakawa the i second, the Emperor To Ba's fourth Son, in the
year of Synmu 1816, of Christ 1156.
After his accession to the Throne he
appointed the Nengo Foogien, which subsisted three years.
In the first year of his reign, on the
eleventh day cf the soventh month, Ssi In revolted against the Emperor. This
Rebellion occasion'd a bloody and pernicious War, which from the time of its
beginning is call'd, Foogienno midarri, that is, the desolation of the tinle
Foogien, and is by this name described at large in their Histories.
In the third year of his reign, in the
eighth month, happened a violent Earthquake.
After a short reign of three years he
resign'd the Crown to his Son. Twelve years after he enter'd into religious
Orders, caus'd himself to be shaved, and took the name of Joossin. He died in
the forty third year of his age.< [184]
NIDSIOO, Gosijrakawa's eldest Son, was
sixteen i years old, when his Father resigned the Crown to him, in the year of
Synmu 1819, of Christ 1159.
The Nengo's appointed during his reign were
Feitsi of one, Jeiraku of one, Oofo of two, Tsioquan of two, and Jeeman of one
year.
In the first year of his reign, the two
great Generals Nobu Jori, and Jositomo, Joritomo's Father, both Princes of the
blood, rebell'd against the Emperor. This Rebellion, and the War occasioned
thereby, are call'd from the time when they begun, and are describ'd in their Histories,
by the name of Feitsi no midarri, or the Desolation of the time Feitsi. Two
years after Jositomo was kill'd in the Province Owari, and his Son Joritomo was
there upon banish'd to Idsu.
In the fifth year of his reign, and the
first of the Nengo Tsioquan, a poor Woman was brought to bed of three children,
each of which had two heads and four feet.
He reign'd 7 years, and died 23 years old.
He was succeeded by his eldest son ROKU
DSJoo in the year of Synmu I826, of Christ I 166.
He appointed the Nengo Ninjani, which
subsisted three years.
He reign'd but three years, and died
thirteen years old. x; He was succeeded by TAKAKURA, the Emperor 1829, of
GosiJrakawa's third Son, in the year of Synmu Christ 1169, and the ninth of his
Age.
He was married to a daughter of Kijomori,
who was mention'd above, under the reign of the Emperor To Ba.
He appointed the Nengo's Kavoo of two,
Sioun of four, Angen of two, and Dsijsso of four years.
In the third year of his reign, his Father
was shav'd and turn'd Monk, taking the name of Joossin.
In the fourth year of his reign, on the
twenty-third day of the first month, a great part of the capital city and
residence of the Emperor was laid in ashes.
In the seventh year the Small-pox was very
fatal all over the Empire.
In the eleventh year the Emperor remov'd
his court and residence to Kuwara.
In the twelfth year of his reign, and the
last of the Nengo Dsijsso, the ennemies of Joritomo were defeated in the
Province Isju, and Jorimassa was kill'd with all his family.
He reign'd twelve years, and died twenty
one years ola.
His eldest Son AN TOKU, born by Kjiomori's
a daughter, succeeded him in the year of Synmu 1841, of Christ 1181.
He appointed the Nengo's Joowa of one, and
Siuje of two years.
In the first year of his reign, there was a
great famine in Japan, occasion'd both by the sterility of the crop, and the
still raging wars. The same< [185] year died Kijomori, the Emperor's Grandfather, after the manner
above related. The same year General Kadsuwara left the Feki Party, and went
over to loritomo, who was then callwd Tiojenoski. This Kadsuwara was of a very
mean extraction, but by his courage and heroic actions he rais'd himself to be
one of the most considerable Princes of the Empire. The same year was born Jori
Ije, Joritomo's Son and his Successor in the command of the armies and the
government of secular affairs.
After a short reign of three years Antoku
was forc'd to resign the Crown.
He was succeeded by GO TO BA, or Toba the
second, the Emperor Takakura's fourth Son, in the year of 2 Synmu 1844, of
Christ 1184.
He appointed the Nengo's Genriaku of one,
Buanitz of five, and Kenkiu of nine years.
In the first year of his reign died
Joosnaga, a great General, of whose heroic actions frequent mention is made in
the History of the Wars with the Feki's.
In the third year of his reign, his
Predecessor Antoku being pursued by his enemies, was unhappily drown'd in the
Western Seas. He was after his death call'd Antokuten O, having after his
resignation taken the name of Sen Tei.
About that time died Josinaga, Joritomo's
Son in law.
In the sixth year of his reign was kill'd
Jositzne, another very eminent Commander. His death was followwd by that of
Fidefira his Lieutenant-General, and the extirpation of his whole Family.
In the eleventh year Joritomo went to court
to pay his respects to the Mikaddo, by whom he was honour~d with the title of
Sei Seogun, which hath been ever since given to the Crown-Generals and Secular
Monarchs.
In the fourteenth year of his reign, a
Horse with nine feet was sent to court from the Island Awadsi, as a present to
the Emperor.
He reign'd fifteen years, and resign'd the
Crown to his eldest Son.
He died sixty years old.
TSUTSI MIKADDO, (Mikaddo is here the
Emperor's name) was but three years old, when he came to the crown by his
Father's resignation, in the year of Synmu 1859, of Christ 1199.
The Nengo's appointed during his reign
were, Seotzi of two, Kennin of three, Genkiu of two, Kenje of one, and SooJen
of four years.
In the first year of his reign died
Joritomo, Crowngeneral and the first Secular Monarch. His Son Jori Ije
succeeded him in the command of the armies, and was five years after his
Father's death by the Dairi honourwd with the title of Sei Seogun. He was
kill'd two years after.
Tsutsi Mikaddo reign'd twelve years, and
resign'd the crown to his younger brother. He liv'd 37 years. < [186]
SIUNTOKU his younger Brother, and the
Emperor Gotobans third Son, succeeded him in the year of Synmu I87I, of Christ
1211.
The Nengo's appointed during his reign
were, Genriaku of two, Genpo of six, and Seokiu of three years.
In the fourth year of his reign, and the
second of the Nengo Genpo, died Foonen Seonin, founder of the Sect of SeodosJu.
In the sixth year of his reign, and the
fourth of the said Nengo, the first Fune's, or Men of War, were built in Japan
by order of Sonnetomo, Joritomo's second Son, who endeavour'd by force of arms
to maintain himself in the succession to his Father's and Brother's
employments.
In the ninth year of his reign, on the twenty-second
day of the second month, the two stately Temples Kiomidz and Giwon were burnt
down.
He reign'd 11 years, and liv'd 46.
He resign'd the crown to GO FORIKAWA, or
Forikawa the second, the Emperor Takakurazs Grandson, in 1 the year of Synmu
I882, of Christ 1222.
The Nengo's appointedi during his reign
were, Teewo of two, Gen In of one, Karoku of two, An Te of two, Quanki of
three, and Teejei of one year.
In the first year of his reign, and the
first of the Nengo Teewo, on the first day of the second month, was born in the
Province Awa, Nitsijren, a famous Pagan teacher, and founder of a particular
Sect.
Go Forikawa reign'd eleven years, and liv'd
twentyfour.
SI DSIO, his eldest Son, then.but five
years of age, I succeeded him in the year of Synmu I 893, of Christ 5.
The Nengo's appointed during his reign
were, Tempoko of one, Bunriaku of one, Kassiuku of three, Riaknin of one, Jengo
of one, and Nintzi of three years.
In the seventh year of his reign the Seogun
or CrownGeneral Joritzne, who then resided at Kamakura Seogun, came to court at
Miaco, to pay his respects to the Emperor.
He reign'd ten, and liv'd fifteen years.
He was succeeded by GO SAGA, or Saga the
second, the Emperor Tsutsi Mikaddo's second Son, in the year of Synmu 1903, of
Christ 1243.
He appointed the Nengo Quan Jun, which
subsisted four vears.
He died after a short reign of four years,
in the fiftythird of his Age.
He was succeeded by his second Son GO
FIKAKUSA, or Fikakusa the second, in the year of Synmu I907, of Christ 1247.
He appointed the Nengo's Quantsi of two,
Footsi of two, Gentsio of six, KooJen, Sooka, and Sooguan each of one year.
In the eleventh year of his reign, on the
twenty-third day of the second month, happen'd a violent Earth quake.
He resign'd the crown after a reign of
thirteen years, and liv'd sixty.< [187]
KAME JAMMA the late Emperor's younger
brother x. came to the Crown by his Resignation, in the year of Synmu 1920, of
Christ 1260.
The Nengo's appointed during his reign
were, Bunwo of one, Kotsio of three and Bunje of eleven years.
In the fifth year of his reign, on the 21st
day of the eleventh month, died Sinran, chief of the Ikosiu Sect, and formerly
a disciple of Foonin Seonin, who was the Founder of the Seodosiu Sect.
In the seventh year of his reign appear'd a
great Comet, which was seen also in China.
In the ninth year on the eighth day of the
fifth month, were seen two Suns, and in the tenth, on the eleventh day of the
second month, three Moons.
In the fifteenth and last year of his
reign, Mune Taka, who was then Crown General, and at the head of the secular
Affairs, took up his Residence in the City of Kamakura.
He reign'd fifteen years, and resign'd the
Crown to his eldest Son. He liv'd thirty two years after his resignation, and
died in the fifty seventh year of his age, and in the fifth year of the reign
of the Emperor Gonidsij.
GOUDA succeeded his Father in the year of
Synmu 1935, of Christ 1275.
The Nengos appointed during his reign, were
Gentsi of two, Kentsi of four, Kooan of four, and Sioo of three years. Some
Authors mention only two Nengoxs, Gentsi of three, and Kooan of ten years.
In the ninth year of his reign, on the
twenty first day of the fifth month, the Tartar General Mooko appeared upon the
Coasts of Japan with a Fleet of 4000 sail, and 240000 Men. The then reigning
Tartarian Emperor Sijsu, after he had conquer'd the Empire of China about the
year of Christ 1270, sent this General to subdue also the Empire of Japan. But
this Expedition prov'd unsuccessful. The Cami (if we believe the Japanese
Briters) that is, the Gods of the Country, and Protectors of the Japanese
Empire, were so incens'd at the insult offer'd them by the Tartars, that on the
first day of the seventh month, they excited a violent and dreadful Storm,
which destroy'd all this reputed invincible Armada. Mooko himself perish'd in
the waves, and but few of his Men escaped. (This Expedition, of which more in
the Translator's Preface, is mentioned by Marcus Paulus, a noble Venetian, who
was then himself in China, and lived at the Court of the Tartarian Emperor
Sijsu.)
In the tenth year of his reign, on the
thirteenth day of the tenth month, died in the Province Musasi, the
abovemention'd Nitsijrin. The adherents of the Fokesiu Sect still celebrate a
yearly festival to commemorate the day of his death.< [188]
Gouda reign'd thirteen years, and liv'd
fifty eight.
He was succeeded by FUSIMI, Go Fikakusa's
second Son, and his Cousin, in the year of Synmu 1948, of Christ 1288.
The Nengo's appointed during his reign were
Soowo of five, and Jenin of six years.
In the first year of his reign, on the
third day of the third month, was born his Son and successor, to whom he
resign'd the throne after a reign of eleven years.
He liv'd fifty three years.
GO FUSIMI, or Fusimi the second, succeeded
his Father in the year of Synmu I959, of Christ 1299, and the twelfth of his
age.
He appointed a new Nengo, which was call'd
Seoan, and continued three years till he resign'd the throne.
He liv'd thirty five years after his
resignation, and died forty eight years old, in the year of Synmu 1997, of
Christ 1337.
He resign'd the Crown to GO NIDSIO, or
Nidsio the second the Emperor Gouda's eldest Son, in the year of Synmu 1962, of
Christ 1302.
This Emperor appointed the Nengo's Kagen of
four and Tokuds of two years.
In the fifth year of his reign, in the
eight month happen'd a violent Earthquake. The same year is remarkable for the
death of the Emperor Kame Jamma, alld the birth of Takaudsi, who was afterwards
Crown-General and secular Monarch.
He reign'd six years, and resign'd the Gown
to FANNASONNO the Emperor Go Fusimi's youn(Jer brother and Fusimi's second Son,
in the year of Synrnu 1968) of Christ 1308.
The Nengo's appointed during this Emperor's
reign were, Jenke of three, Ootsjo of one, Sooa of two, and Bun O of five
years.
He reign'd eleven years and resign'd the
Crown to Go Daigo, Go Nidsio's younger brother, and Gouda's second Son.
GO DAIGO, or Daigo the second, came to the
throne in the year of Synmu Ig7g, of Christ I3I9.
He appointed the Nengo's Genwo of two,
Genko of three, Seotsju of two, Karaku of three, Gentoku of two, and Genko of
one years.
In the last year of his reign much blood
was shed in the civil wars, which then desolated the Empire, and are describ'd
in a Book entituled Teifeki.
He reign'd thirteen years, and resign'd the
Crown to Kwo Gien, Go Fusimi's eldest Son.
KWO
GIEN or Koo Gien came to the throne in the year of Synmu 1992) of Christ 1332.
He appointed the Nengo Seoke, which
continued two years.< [189]
In the second year of his reign, Takadsi,
who was then Crown General and Secular Monarch, came to court to pay his duty
to the Mikaddo. The same year Takakoku, a noted General, made away with
himself, ripping open his belly.
Kwoo Gien after a short reign of two years
resignid the crown to his Predecessor. He Iiv'd thirty-two years after, and
died in the year of Synmu 2026, of Christ I364
in the Jenken,
GO DAIGO therefore re-assum'd the Crown
year of Synmu 1994, of Christ 1334.
He then appointed the Nengo's Kemmu and
each of two years.
In the third year of his second reign, died
the late Emperor Go Fussimi, as did also K. usnokimaka Sugge, a famous General.
The same year, 1n the eighth month, Japan was shook by violent Earthquakes.
He reign'd this second time but three
years.
He was succeeded by QUO MIO, Kwo Gients DQg
younger Brother, and the Emperor Go Fusimi's fourth
Son, in the year of Synmu 1997, of Christ
1337.
The Nengo Jenken, which had been appointed
by his Predecessor, was continuad during the first year of his reign, and was
followid by the Nengo Riakuwo, which lasted four years.
In the second year of his reign, the Crown
General Takaudsi was by him honour'd with the illustrious title of Sei Dai
Seogun.
My two Japanese Historians differ about the
length of this Emperor's reign. One pretends that he reign'd but twelve vears,
but the other will have it, that after a short reign of two years he was
succeeded by
GO MURA CAMI, or Muracami the second, the
Emperor Godaigo's seventh child, in the year of Synmu 1999, of Christ 1339.
This Emperor however hath no number assign'd him in the list of the Mikaddos.
The Nenzo Riakwo was continued during the
three first years of his reign, supposing that he was possess'd of the throne
of Japan, and it was follownd by the Nengo's Kooje of three vears, and Tewa of
four years.
Whoever it was. that govern'd Japan during
the time of these several Nengons, both my Authors agree, that after the Nengo
Tewa was expir'd, Siukwo came to the crown.
SIUKWO, who was the Emperor Koo Gen's
eldest 'Son, began to reign in the year of Synmu 2009, of Christ 1349.
During the first year of his reign, I find there was no Nengo
appointed, for the Nengo Quano begun with the
second year, and was continued two years.
In
the first year of his reign, an end was put to the War SiJdsio Nawatto.
He
reign'd three years.
He
was succeeded by GOKWOO GEN, or KwooVen the second, his younger brother, in the
year of Synmu 2012, of Christ 1352.< [190]
The
Nengo's appointed during this Emperor's reign
were, Bunjwa of four, Jenbun of five, Kooan of one
Teeidsi of six, and Ooan of seven years.
This last Nen, o
was continued during
the three first years of the reign of
his
Successor.
In
the third year of his reign, Josijsaki, the Crown
General Takaudsi his third son, came to court.
In the fourth year of his reign, Takaudsi
himself was
sent by the Emperor into
the Province Oomi, to adjust
some
differences which arose in those parts of the
Empire.
In
the eighth year of his reign, Takaudsi died on the
2gth day of the fourth month. His Son Joosisaki succeeded him in
his Employments, and obtain'd the same
year from the Emperor the title of Sei Dai Seogun.
In
the eleventh year of his reign, the new Crown
General Joosisaki was sent to command the Imperial
army in Oomi.
In
the eighteenth year of his reign, Joosimitz, Joosisaki's Son, was made Crown
General, and gratify)d with
the title
of Sei Dai Seogun.
Gokwoo Gen reign'd
twenty years.
He was suceeeded by GO JENTU his eldest
Son, in
the year of Synmu 2032, of
Christ 1372.
The last of his Fathers
Nengo's was continued duriny
the
three first years of his reiCn. In the fourth he appointed the Nengo Kooraku
which subsisted four years, and was followid by the Nengo's Sei Toku of two, and Koowa of three
years, which last subsisted during the first year of the reign of his
Successor.
In the eighth year of his reign, there was
a great famine in Japan. The same year appear'd a Comet.
He reign'd eleven years.
He was succeeded by his eldest Son
GOKOMATZ, in the year of Synmu 2043, of Chrlst I383, and the third of the Nengo
Koowa.
The Nengo's appointed during his reign
were, Sitolzu of three years, begun in the second of his reign, Kakei of two,
Ikoo O of one, Meetoku of four, and Oo Jei ef thirty-four years.
In the ninth year of his reign, there was a
War in the Country of Udsij.
In the fourteenth year, on the seventeenth
day of the eleventh month, the famous Temple Kenninsi was laid in ashes.
In the twentieth year appear'd a Comet in
the Spring, and it was observ'd that there was a great drought and want of
water the following Summer and Autumn, and that many violent Earthquakes
happen'd the next Winter.
In the twenty-second year a Mountain at Nasno,
in the Province of Simotski, beZun to burn, and to throw up stones and ashes.
But the flame ceas'd soon after.< [191]
In the twenty fifth year, the autumn was
very wet, which occasioned inundations in several parts of the Empire. The same
was followid by stormy Weather and Earthquakes.
He reign'd thirty years.
He was succeeded by his Son SEOKWO, in the
year of Synmu 2073, of Christ I413> and the twentieth of the Nengo Oojei.
The Nengo Oojei was continu'd during the
first fifteen years of his reign, when he appointed a new one, which was calld
Seootsjo, and subsisted but one year.
In the fourth year of his reign Uje Suggi,
that is, Uje of the family of Suggi, rebelld against the Emperor.
In the ninth year, on the twelfth day of
the tenth month, appear'd two Suns.
In the sixteenth year, on the eighteenth
day of the first month, died Josimotz, then Crown General, and xvas succeeded
in his title and employments by Josijnobu
The same year, on the twenty seventh day of
the seventh month, died the Emperor himself, after a reign of sixteen years.
He was succeeded by his Son GOFUNNA SO, in
the year of Synmu 2089) of Christ I429.
The Nengo's appointed during his reign
were, Jeiko of twelve, Kakitz of three, Bunjan of five, Fotoku of five, Kosio
of two, Tsioorok of three, and (Quanisjo of S1X years.
In the first year of his reign, on the
fifth day of the eighth month, appear'd a very large and terrible Comet, and
another in the eleventh year in the third month.
In the sixteenth year, Josijmassa was by
the Emperor honour'd with the title of Sei Seogun.
In the eighteenth year, the Emperor's
Palace was laid in ashes.
During the seven last years of his reign,
many stranCe and wonderful appearances in Heaven are mention'd bv the Tapanese
Historians, which were follow'd by famine, pestilence and a Zreat mortality all
over the Empire.
He reign'd thirty six years.
He was succeeded by his Son GO TSUTSI
MIKADDO, or Tsutsi Mikaddo the second, in the year of Synmu ZI25, of Christ
r465.
The Nengos appointed by this Emperor were,
Bunsio of one year, begun in the second year of his reign, Onin of two, Fumio
of eighteen, Tsiooko of two, Jentoku of three, and Me O of nine years.
In the first year of his reign, in the
second month, appear'd a Comet, whose tail seem'd to be three fathom long.
In the second year several Earthquakes
happenid, particularly on the twenty ninth day of the twelfth month.
The same year there was such a famine in
China, that people kill'd and devour'd one another.< [192]
The third year was very fatal to Japan,
which was fill'd with troubles and civil wars. This great desolation began on
the sixth day cf the fifth month.
In the fifth year, on the tenth day of the
ninth month, appear'd another Comet, with a tail above one fathom long.
In the seventh year, there was a great
mortality all over the Empire.
The same year, on the first day of the
twelfth month appeared another Comet, larger than any as yet observrd, with a
tail according to my Author, as long as a street.
In the ninth year, died Fossokawa
Katsmotto, a great General, and very famous for his courage and military
exploits. He was after his death honour'd with the title of Riu Ans, and that
of Sei Seogun was given to Joosnavo.
In the eleventh year, on the sixth day of
the eighth month, it blew very hard. The waters about Arr.agasaki in the
Province Setz swelled to that height, that a great part of that Country was
overflow'd, and many of the Inhabitants drown'd.
In the twenty fifth year, on the twenty
sixth day of the third month died Josijnavo. He was the Crown General
Josijmassa's Son, and had besides the title of Sei Seogun, a share with his
Father, in the command of the armies, and the administration of the secular
aflfairs of the Empire.
The next year, which was the year of Christ
I490 died Josijmassa himself, and was very much regretted.
In the twenty ninth year) Josijsimmy was
honoured with the title of Sei Dai Seogun. He went soon after to command the
army in Jasijro.
In the thirtieth year, on the seventh day
of the eighth month, happen'd another violent Earthquake.
He reign'd in all thirty six years, and
liv'd fifty nine.
He was succeeded by his Son KASIUVVABARA,
in the year of Synmu 216I) of Christ I50I.
The Nengo's appointed during his reign
were, Bunk of three, Jeeseo of seventeen, and Teije of seven years) which last
was continu'd during the first year of the reign of his successor.
In the fourth year of his reign, there was
a great famine in Japan, and another in the sixteenth year.
In the sixth year, in the seventh month,
appear'd a Comet.
In the eighth year the title of Sei Seogun,
and the command of the army was given to Jositanne.
The tenth year was fatal to Japan both by
War and Earthquakes.
In the twelfth year, in the fifth month,
Josijtanne went to Court, to pay his duty to the Emperor.
Kasiuwabara reign'd twenty six years, < [192]
He was succeeded by his Son GONARA, in the
year of Synmu 2I87) of Christ I527.
The last of his Father's Nengo's was
continued during the first year of his reign, after which he appointed the
Nengo's, Koraku of four, Tembun of twenty-three. and Koodsi of three years.
Soon after his accession to the throne, an
end was put to the war between Fossokawa and Kadsuragawa. The former of these
two Princes made away with himself trvo years after, ripping open his belly
with that courage and resolution, which is so much admir'd by these Heathens.
During this Emperor's reign, the Japanese
Empire was afflicted twice with pestilence, and a great mortalitv, thrice with
extraordinary wet rainy Seasons, wherebv the waters increas'd to such a degree,
that they over-flow'd great part of the country, and once with such a violent
and universal storm, that thereby many stately buildings, aw3d part of the Emperorns own Palace, was blown down.
In the fifth year, on the twenty-ninth day
of the sixth month, appear'd a Comet, and another again in the twelfth month of
the twelfth year.
In the seventh year, on the eighth day of
the tenth month, was observvd an Eclipse of the moon.
In the twenty-first year, on the
seventeenth day of the second month, Josi Tir receiv'd from the Emperor the
title of Sei Dai Seogun, with the command of the armies. Eighteen years after
this Josi Tir made away with himself, cutting his belly.
In the twenty-fourth year, on the fourth
day of the fifth month, died the Crown General and Secular Monarch Josij Far.
Gonara reign'd thirty-one years.
He was succeeded by his Son OOKIMATZ, in
the year 9 of Synmu 2218, of Christ I5S8. ]
The
Nengo's appointed during his reign were, Jeekoku of twelve, Genki of three, and Jensoo of nineteen years, which last continued during the first five
years of the reign of his Successor.
In
the very first year of his reign, there was a great famine in Japan, preceded by an exceeding dry Summer. In the eighth year of his reign, Josij Tir, then Crown General and Secular Monarch, made away with himself, as above mention'd.
In
the eleventh year Josij Tira was appointed Crown
General, and honour'd by the Emperor with the title of
Sei
Seogun.
In
the sixteenth year is mention'd, as something
remarkable, that a Tortoise with two heads was caught in
the Spring. The same year on the third day
of the fourth
month, some Incendiaries
set fire to Kamio, that is, the
upper
part of the City of Miaco, (the lower part is call'd
Si Mio) wherein the Emperor himself then resided, by
which the greatest part of it was laid in
ashes.< [194]
In
the twentieth year on the twenty ninth day of the
ninth month, appeared a great Comet, which did not
disappear till the next year.
The
twenty first year was very wet, and great part of
the Country was set under water on the twelfth day of the
fifth month.
In the twenty third year the sickness and
mortality waS great all over the Empire.
In the twenty fifth year, on the second day
of the sixth month) the Crown-General and Secular Monarch Nobun anga, and his
eldest Son, were kill'd at Miaco.
In the twenty sixth year some Ambassadors
from the Riuku Islands came to Court.
In the twenty eighth year, which was the
year of Christ 1585, in the seventh month, Fide Jos, who afterwards took the
name of Taiko, or Taikosama, was by the Emperor honour'd with the Title of
Quanbuku, and entrusted with the command of the armies, and the government of
the secular affairs of the Empire. Quanbuku is the first person after the
Dairi, and by vertue of this title, his supreme Lieutenant and Vicegerent in
the government. This Taiko was of a very mean extraction and rais'd himself to
this eminent post merely by his courage and merit. He was, properly speaking,
the first absolute Secular Monarch of Japan, that is, the first, who assum'd to
himself the absolute government of the Empire, whereof the Ecclesiastical
Hereditary Emperors till then preserv'd some share. Ever since that time rhe
Secular Monarchs continued independent of the Ecclesiastical Emperors, to whom
nothing was left but a meer shadow of their former Authority, with some few
insignificant Prerogatives, as to their rank and holiness, and the titles of
honour, which must be conferr'd by them.
The same 28th year, on the 2gth of the 11th
month, happen'd a violent Earthquake, which continued by repeated, though
smaller shocks, for almost a whole ycar.
In the 2gth year of his reign, he resign'd
the Crown to his Grandson, and died seven years after.
GO JOSEI, the Emperor Ookimatz his Grandson,
and the eldest Son of the Hereditary Prince Jookwo, who died the year before,
on the seventh day of the eleventh month, came to the crown the year of Synmu
2247, of Christ 1587.
The last of his Grandfather's Nengos was
continued during the five first years of his reign, after avhich the following
were appointed, Bunroleu of four years, and Keitsjo, which subsisted nineteen,
or three aears after his death.
In the third year of his reign, Eidetsuri
(a nephew of the Secular Monarch Taiko, by whom he was declar'd his Successor,
though afterwards disgraced and commanded to rip open his belly) a cruel and
sanguinary Prince, kill'd Foodsjo, in the Province Sagami, and extirpated all < [195] his
family, pursuant to the rules of War observid in Japan, which advise by this
means to root out at once, and to destroy the very cause of the evil.
In the fifth year, the title of Quanbuku
was given to the said Fide Tsugi.
In the sixth year, which was the year of
Christ 159", Taiko declared war against the Coreans, and sent over a
numerous army under a pretext, as he gave out, of making by the conquest of
this Peninsula his way to the conquest of the Empire of China it self. This war
lasted seven years.
In the seventh year died Ookimatz, the
Emperor's Grandfather and Predecessor.
In the eleventh year Jejias, a great
favorite of Taiko's, and his first minister of state, was by the Emperor
honour'd with the title of Nai Dai SinS
The same year, on the twelfth day of the
seventh month, happen'd several violent Earthquakes, and the trembling
continu'd by fits for a whole month. About that time it rain'd Hair, four to
five inches long, in several parts of the Empire. This Phcenomenon is often
mentionGd in their Histories.
In the twelfth year, which was the year of
Synmu 2258, of Christ 1598, on the eighteenth day of the eighth month, Fide
Josi took the name of Taiko, which signifies a great Lord. This great Monarch
died the same year, (on the sixteenth of December, N.S.) early in the morning,
leaving the secular government to his only Son Fide Jori, whom he committed to
the care and tuition of .Tejas.
In the fourteenth year, Josijda Tsibbu, who
had a place at Fide Jori's Court, rebell'd against the Emperor. The rebels were
soon defeated, and their chief with all his family exterminated.
In the seventeenth year, the title of Sei
Dai SeoCun. which belongs to the Crown General, was given to Jejas, Tutor of
the hereditary Prince Fide Juri, Taiko's only Son. The same year Fide Juri
himself w-as honouPd with the title of Nai Dai Sin.
In the ninteenth year the title of Sei Dai
Seogun lvas given to Fide Tadda, the Crown General Tejas his Son.
The same year a very extraordinary accident
happenid on the fifteenth day of the twelfth month, for a mountain arose out of
the Sea in one night's-time, near the rocky Island Fatsisio, where the Grandees
of the secular Monarch's Court are usually confin'd, when out of favour.
In the twenty first year, which was the
year of Christ 1608, an Embassador arriv'd at Suruga, who was sent bv the
Chinese Emperor to compliment the secular Monarch of Japan. < [196]
In the twenty third year, Jejas order'd a
strong castle to be built in the province Owari.
In the twenty fourth year, the Riuku
Islands were invaded and conquer'd by the Prince of Satzuma. Ever since they
are looknd upon as belonging to the Japanese Empire.
Go Josei reigned in all twenty five years.
He was succeeded by his Son DAISEOKWO TEI,
in the year of Synmu 2272, of Christ 16X2.
In the fourth year of his reign he
appointed the Nengo Geniwa of nine years, which was follow'd by the Nengo Quan
Je, which continued twenty years, during the remaining part of his reign, and
the whole reign of the Empress his successor.
In the second year of his reign, it was
again observ'd,
that Hair fell in several parts of the
Empire, chiefly in autumn.
In the third year, on the twenty fifth of
the tenth month, happen'd a very violent Earthquake. The same year Fide Juri,
the late secular Emperor Taikos only Son and Heir, was besieg'd in the Castle
of Osacca, by Jejas, who was his Tutor and Father-in-law. The Castle was
surrender'd in the fourth year, on the seventh day of the fifth month. But the
Prince caus'd the palace, where he retir'd with his most faithful adherents, to
be set on fire, chusing rather to perish by the flames, than to fall into the
hands of a victorious enemy, tho' so nearly related to him.
In the fifth year, on the seventeenth day
of the fourth month, died Jejas himself, in full and quiet possession of the
secular Throne, which he usurped upon his Pupil, and left to his Son. This
Jejas was the first Emperor of the now reigning family. He was buried at
Nicquo, and according to custom related among the Gods, by the name of
Gongensama.
In the eighth year, which was the year of
Christ 1619 appeartd a very remarkable Comet.
In the tenth year, the Ecclesiastical
Emperor was married with great pomp and solemnity to the secular Monarch Fide
Tada's daughter.
In the twelfth year Jemitz, Fide Tada's
Son, went to Miaco, to pay his duty to the Ecclesiastical Emperor, of whom he
obtain'd the title of Sei Dai Seogun.
In the eighteenth year he resign'd the
Crown to his daughter. Me lived fifty years after his resignation, and died in
the ninetieth year of his age, and the eight of the Nengo Tempo, on the eighth
day of the eighth month, or late in autumn, when according to my Japanese
Author's expression, the Trees had been already stript of their Leaves.
Nio Te, or Seo Te, that is, Madam Mikaddo,
or according to others, Fonin, the last Emperor's daughter, came to the Crown in
the year of Synmu 2290, of Christ 1630.< [197]
The last of her Father's Nengo's was
continued during her whole reign.
In the third year of her reign, on the
twenty fourth day of the first month, died the secular Monarch Fide Tada He was
after his death deified according to custom, and call d Teitokuin.
In the fifth year the secular Monarch
Ijemitz, Eide Tadars Son and successor, went to the Dairi's Court.
In the seventh year, in the tenth month,
the Chinese were again sufer'd to come to Japan, on account of their
trade,which they had been forbid to do for some time before
The beginning of that famous rebellion of
the Chris tians at Simabara, in the Province Fisen, falls upon the
clhventth6month of the eighth year, being the year of
In the ninth year, in the second month, on
the 12th of April 1638, 37000 Christians were put to death on one day. This act
of cruelty at once put an end to the rebellion, and a finishing stroke to the
total abolition of the Christian Religion in Japan.
In the twelfth year, of Christ 1641, on the
fifth day of the eight month, was born Ijetzna, Father of the now reigning
secular Monarch. The same year was a great famine and mortality in Japan, from
the beginning of the Spring to the ensuing Harvest.
This Empress reign'd fourteen years, and
resign'd the Crown to her younger brother.
GO KWO MIO, commonly Goto Mio, the late
Empress's younger brother, succeeded his Sister in the year of Synmu 2303, of
Christ 1643, on the seventh day of the ninth month, though he did not take the
title of Mikaddo, and full possession of the throne, till the fifth day of the
eleventh month.
The Nengo's appointed during his reign were
Seofo of four, Kejan of four, and Seoo of three years.
In the third year of his reign, on the
twenty third day of the fourth month, the titIe of Seonai Dai Nagon, was given
to the Secular Monarch Ijetzna.
In the eleventh year, on the twelfth day of
the eighth month, a Fire broke out in the Dairi, or Palace of the
Ecclesiastical Hereditary Emperor, which consumed great part of it with several
neighbouring Temples and other buildings. The same year some young Lads, of
twelve to fourteen years of age, were committed to prison on suspicion of
having set fire to it, and to several other parts of the City of Miaco.
In the eleventh year, on the sixth day of
the seventh month, arriv'd from China, Ingen an eminent Heathen Preacher. The
design of his coming over was to convert the people to his Pagan worship,
and< [198] to
unite, if possible, the differing Sects, then flourishing, in the Empire, a
task truly hard.
The same year, on the twentieth day of the
ninth month, died the Mikaddo, and was buried with great solemnity in the
temple of Sen Ousi, on the fifteenth day of the following tenth month.
He was succeeded by his third and younger
Brother
SININ, in the year of Synmu
2314, of Christ 1654.
The Nengo's appointed during his reign
were, Meiruku, and Bantsi, each of three years, and Seowo, or according to
others, Quan Bun, of twelve years, which last was continued to the eleventh year
of the reign of his Successor.
Some Authors pretend, that it was in the
first year of this Emperor's reign, the Chinese had obtain'd leave to renew
their trade to Japan.
In the third year of his reign, (of Christ
1657) on the thirteenth day of the first Month, a dreadful fire broke out at
Jedo, the residence of the Secular Monarch, which continued burning with great
violence for three days, and laid the greatest part of that noble Capital in
ashes. (An Account of this fire hath been given by Mr. Wagenaer, Ambassador of
the East India Company to the Emperor of Japan, who was then at Jedo himself,
and is inserted in Montanus's memorable Embassies to the Japanese Emperors p.
370.)
In the fifth year was first begun the
Rakujo, or Pil grimage to the 33 Quanwon Temples, which was since made by many
religious people of both sexes.
In the seventh year, great part of the
Ecclesiastical Emperor's residence was again laid in ashes.
In the eighth year, on the first day of the
fifth month) happen'd a violent Earthquake, by which a mountain in the Province
Oomi, on the river Katzira, sunk down flat even with the ground, without
leaving the least foot-step of its having stood there.
He reign'd eight years.
rHe was succeeded by his younger Brother
KINSEN or Tei Sen, or with his full title, Kinseokwo Tei, the Emperor Daiseokwo
Tei's youngest Son, in the year of Synmu 2323, of Christ 1663.
The last of his Brother's STengo's was
continued durin~ the first ten years of his reign, when he appointed the Nengo
Jempo, which subsisted eight years, and was follow'd by the Nengo's Tenwa of
three, and Dsiokio of four years.
In the third year of his reign, in the
sixth month, a Court of Enquiry was establish'd by special command of the
Emperor, in all the cities and villages throughout the Empire. The business of
this court i5 to enquire what religion, belief or sect, each family, or its
individual members belong to. This Enauiry is made once every year, tho'
not at a certain determined time, but commonly some days, or weeks, after the
trampling< [199] over the Images of our blessed Saviour, and the Virgin Mary, hath
been perform'd in every family, as a convincing proof of their abhorrence
to the Christian Religion.
In the fourth year, in the fourth month,
the Emperor order'd the Jusja Fuse, a branch of the Fokesiu Sect, to be
abolish'd, forbidding all his subjects, ever hereafter, to adhere thereto. The
followers of this Sect entertainnd such ridiculous notions of their own purity
and holiness, that they thought the very conversation with other People would
pollute and profane them.
In the sixth year, on the first day of the
second month, and for forty-five days following, the City of Jedo suffer'd much
by fire, which seem'd to have been laid in designedly, and the malicious intent
levelld ch.Zi3lv at Merchant's ware-houses, and the places where Soldiers were
quarter'd.
In t:he seventh year, there being a great
famine in Japan, occasion'd by an excessive drought the year before, the
Emperor order'd that from the twentieth day of the first month, for one hundred
days successively, boild rice should be distributed to the poor, at his own
expence, in all parts of the Empire.
In the eighth year, they had very violent
storms at Osacca, and in several other maritime Provinces, followtd by Inundations,
and a great mortality amonP men and beasts.
In the ninth year, in the fourth month, as
they were cleaning the river, which runs by Osaua, they took up great
quantities of gold and silver, which, in all probability, were sunk there
during the late Civil Wars.
In the eleventh year, on the ninth day of
the fifth month, a fire broke out at the Dairi's court, which burnt with such
fury, that great part of the citv of Miaco itself was laid in ashes, and
because it unluckily happen'd, that among other buildings several publick
granaries were destroy'd by the fire, the Emperor, for the ease and comfort
of his Subjects, order'd, that three Kokurs of rice should be given, or lent to
anv family, that stood in need of it, as is done frequently in time of famine.
In the twelfth year, in the second month, a
Court of Enquiry was held, by special command of the Emperor, in his Capital of
Miaco, when it appear'd, that in the I850 streets of this city, therewere 1050
of the Ten Dai's Religion, 10070 of the sect Singon, 5402 of Fosso, 11O16 of
Sen, 122044 of Seodo, 99I2 of Rit, 81586 of Jocke, 41586 of Nis Fonguans, 80112
of Figas Fonguans, 7406 of Takata Monto, 8306 of Bukwoo, 21080 of Dainembuds,
6073 of the sect of Jammabos, that is in all 405643
(the Dairi's Court not computed) 182070 of
which were males, and 223573 females. (See the latter End of the IXth Chapter
of the Vth Book.)
The same year, on the third day of the
fourth month died in the famous Convent Obaku, the above mentionad Chinese
Missionary Ingen, in< [200] the
fourscore and second year of his age. The following months, the growth of the
field suffer'd much by rain and hail, whereby a great famine was occasion'd,
for which reason the Emperor issued new orders to distribute rice to the poor
in the chief Cities.
In the eighteenth year, and the eighth of
the Nengo Jenpo, on the eighth day of the fifth month, (1680, on the 24th of
June) died the secular Monarch Jjetzna. He was after his death, according to
custom, related among the Gods, and call'd Gen Ju in den.
In the nineteenth year, in the fifth month,
the pompous Title of Sei Dai Seogun Nai Dai Sin Sioni i ukonjeno Taiso, was by
the Emperor conferr'd on the nolv reigning secular Monarch Tsinajos, who was a
younger brother of Geniuin, and Jjetiru, or Daijoin his third Son.
In the twentieth year, and the second of
the Nengo Tenwa (of Christ 1682) there was again a great famine and mortality
in Tapan, particularly in and about Miaco.
In the twelfth month of the same year, on
the 28th day, a Fire broke out at Jedo, which laid the best part of that great
City in ashes.
In the twenty first year, which was the
third of the Nengo Tenwa, died Tokumatz, the now reigning secular Monarchts
only Son and hereditary Prince, for whose death the Empire went into a general mourning,
that no musical Instrument was to be touch'd, nor any kind of rejoycings to be
made for three vears.
The same year, on the fifth day of the
twelfth month, the City of Tedo suffer'd again by Fire.
This Emperor reign'd twenty four years, and
resignid the Crown to his Son.
KINSEN, or Kinseokwo Tei, hath the same
name with his Father, to whom he succeeded in the year of Synmu 2347, of Christ
1687.
In the second year of his reign, he
appointed the NenVo Genroku, the fifth year whereof was the year of Christ 1690 when I was in Japan my self, which in the Cyclus
of sixty years, bears the name of Midsno Je Sar.
The names of these hundred and fourteen
Ecclesi astical hereditary Emperors of Japan, taken out of a Japanese
Chronicle, printed in the learned Languaee of the Chinese, are engrav'd in Fig.
73.< [201]
Chap. VI. Of the Crown-Generals, and Secular Monarchs, from Joritomo to the Emperor Tsinajos now reigning.
JORITOMO, the first Crown-General and
Secular Monarch, was born under the reign of the LXXVI Dairi, in the year of
Christ IrS+. He reign'd 20 years.
II. JORI I JE, Joritomo's Son, reign d five
years.
III. SANNETOMO, Joritomo's second Son,
reign'd seventeen years.
IV. JORITZNE, a Son of Quan Baku Dooka,
reign'd 18 years.
V. JORI SANE, or Jorissuga, Joritzne's Son,
reign'd 8 years.
VI. MUNE TAKA SINNO, or Soo Son Simlo, a
Son of the Ecclesiastical Hereditary Emperor Sagga the second, reign'd 15
years.
VII. KOREJAS SINNO, Mune Taka's eldest Son,
reign'd 24 years.
VIII. KIUME SINNO, or Sanno Osi, the Ecclesiastical
Hereditary Emperor Fikakusa the Second's
third Son, reign'd 20 years.
IX. MORI KUNI SINNO, his Son reign'd 25
years.
X.
SONUN
SINNO, or SONNUM SINNO, Daigo the second's second Son, reign'd 2 years.
XI.
NARI
JOSI SINN 00, Daigo the second's fourth Son, reign'd three years.
XII.
TAKA
UDSI, a Son of Askago Sannokino Cami Nago Udsi, reign'd 25 years.
XIII.
JOSI
JAKI, Takaudsi's third Son, reign'd 10 years.
XIV.
JOSIMITZ,
Josi Jaki's Son, reign'd 40 years.
XV.
JOSIMOTSI,
Takamitz's Son reign'd 21 years.
XVI.
JOSI
KASSU, Josimotsi's Son, reign'd under his Father.
XVII.
JOSI
NORI, Josimitz's Son, reign'd 14 years.
XVIII.
JOSIKATZ,
Josi Nori's eldest Son, reign'd three years.
XIX.
JOSI
MASSA, Josi Nori's second Son, reign'd 49 years.
XX.
JOSINAVO,
reign'd under his Father Josimassa.
XXI.
JOSI
TANNE, Josinavo's Brother reign'd 18 years.
XXII.
JOSI
SYMMI, Josi Tanne's Son, reign'd 14 years.
XXIII,
JOSIFAR,
Josi Symmi's Son, reign'd 30 years.
XIV.
JOSI
TIR, Josifar's Son, reign'd 16 years.
XXV.
JOSI
TAIRA, or TIRA, Josi Tir's Son, reign'd 4 years.
XXVI.
JOSI
AKI, Josi Taira's Son, reign'd 5 years.
XXVII.
NOBBENAGA,
or NOBUNAGA, Oridano Dansio Taira's second Son, reign'd 10 years.
XXVIII.
FIDE,
NOBU, Nobu Tada's Son, reign'd 3 years.
XXIX.
FIDE
JOSI, afterwards call'd Taiko, and Taiko Sama. This celebrated Monarch was a
Peasantys Son, and in his younger years Butler to a Nobleman. But by his
courage and merit, -he rais'd himself< [202] to
be Emperor of Japan. He reduced all the Provinces of Japan, which were then as
yet divided, and govern'd by particular Princes, under his Power and
Sovereignty, and became the first absolute Secular Monarch. He was after his
death, according to the custom of the country, related among the Gods, and
honour'd by the Dairi with the divine title Tojokuni Daimiosin. His temple,
where his urn is kept, stands at Miaco, but is at present almost decay'd, the
Secular Empire being gone over into another Family.
XXX. FIDE TSUGU, alias Quabacundono, who
was the Son of Joo in Iziro, and Taicosama's Nephew, reign'd under his Uncle,
tho' but a little while.
XXXI. FIDE JORI, Taicosama's Son, being
under age, when his Father died, was by him committed to the care and tuition
of Ijejas Sama, one of his favourites and counsellors of state, who oblig'd
himself by a solemn oath, sign'd with his own blood, that as soon as the young
Prince should come of age, he would quit the regency, and deliver the Empire
into his hands. On this condition Jejas his daughter was married to the
Hereditary Prince, who enjoy'd the Empire, or at least the title of Emperor,
under his tutor and father-in-law fourteen years.
XXXII. JEJASSAMA, otherwise Ongosio, and
Daifusama, usurp'd the throne upon Fide Jori his Son-in-law. He granted the
Dutch East India Company a free commerce to Japan, in the year of Christ r6rt.
He was after his death deify'd according to custom, and call'd Gongensama. He
lies buried at Niko, near Miaco, 336
the burial place of this family. He reign'd
in all fourteen years, taking in some of his regency. However some authors
pretend, that he reign'd but four or five years, on a supposition, that he was
seventy years old, when he became possess'd of the throne.
XXXIII. FIDE TADA, Ijejassama's third Son,
who was after his death call'd Taitokonni, or Taitokuinsama, renew'd the
Priviledges, which his Father granted to the Dutch, in 1616, or 1617. He
reign'd eighteen years.
XXXIV. IJETIRUKO, otherwise Ijemitzko,
Fidetada's Son, who was after his death call'd Daijoinsama, or Taijoinsama,
reign'd twenty one years.
XXXV. IJETZNAKO, his Son, who was after his
death call'd Ginjoinsama, or Genjuinsama, reign'd thirty years, and died on the
fourth of June 1680.
XXXVI. TSINAJOSIKO, otherwise Tsijnajosiko,
or Tsijnasosama, or with his full tittle, which he very lately obtain'd from
the Dairi SEI DAI SEOGUN, NAI DAI SIN I UKONJENO TAI SO, the now reigning
Monarch, succeeded his Brother. He was in the 43d year of his age, when I was
in Japan (in 1692) and had been 12 or 13 years on the throne. < [203]