Story Summary
Discover The Mirror of Matsuyama, a touching Japanese folktale about a daughter's devotion and the magical way a mother's love transcends the bounds of death.
Long ago in the province of Matsuyama lived a happy family. Upon returning from a trip to the capital, the father presented his wife with a wonderful gift: a polished bronze mirror, an object then unknown in their rural village. The wife cherished it, but eventually, she fell gravely ill. On her deathbed, she gave the mirror to her young daughter, telling her that whenever she felt lonely or missed her mother, she should look into the glass and find her there. After the mother passed, the girl, who had never seen her own reflection, looked into the mirror. Seeing a face that looked exactly like her mother’s, she believed her mother’s spirit had returned to comfort her. Every day she spoke to the reflection, sharing her thoughts and keeping her heart pure to please the 'spirit.' Her father, discovering her secret, was moved to tears by her innocence and devotion. He never corrected her, realizing that through her love, her mother truly did live on in the girl’s own features.
The Moral
The love and virtues of a parent are reflected in their children, and true devotion can bridge the gap between life and death.
“Whenever you look into this mirror, you will see me, and know that I am always watching over you.”
Fun Fact
The mirror is considered so sacred in Japan that it is the primary object of worship in many Shinto shrines, representing the sun goddess Amaterasu.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of The Mirror of Matsuyama?
The moral is that filial piety and a pure heart allow a parent's legacy to live on. It suggests that the best way to honor the dead is by reflecting their kindness and virtues in our own lives.
Why did the daughter not recognize her own reflection?
In ancient rural Japan, mirrors were extremely rare and expensive luxury items. Having never seen her own face before, the girl naturally assumed the image looking back at her was her mother's spirit, as they looked so much alike.
What does the mirror symbolize in Japanese culture?
The mirror, or 'kagami,' is one of Japan's three sacred imperial treasures. It symbolizes truth, purity, and the soul, often acting as a bridge between the physical and spiritual worlds in Shinto beliefs.
How did the father react to the daughter's discovery?
The father was initially confused but became deeply moved when he realized his daughter’s innocent mistake. He chose not to explain the science of reflections, seeing that her belief made her a kinder, more dutiful child.
Is The Mirror of Matsuyama a Buddhist or Shinto story?
The story contains elements of both, blending the Shinto reverence for the mirror as a soul-container with the Buddhist emphasis on filial piety and the cycle of life.
What is the setting of The Mirror of Matsuyama?
The story is set in the Matsuyama province of ancient Japan, during a time when travel to the capital (Kyoto or Edo) was a rare and significant event for rural villagers.
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