**Ryujin: The Dragon God of the Sea**
**Origin/Culture:** Ryujin, also known as Ryu-O or Ryuo, originates from Japanese mythology and is deeply rooted in the Shinto and folk traditions of Japan.
**Domain/Role:** Ryujin governs the seas, oceans, and rainfall, wielding control over water elements, storms, and aquatic life. He is a protector of the sea and all its creatures.
**Symbol/Iconography:** Common symbols associated with Ryujin include the dragon, the jewel (tama), which controls the tides, and the sea palace (Ryūgū-jō) where he resides.
**Mythology/Stories:** A famous story involves Ryujin and the Empress Jingu, where he provided her with the tide jewels to ensure victory in Korea. Another tale tells of his daughter, Toyotama-hime, who married a mortal, Hoori.
**Family Relationships:** Ryujin is said to have many offspring, including Toyotama-hime. He is also connected to other sea deities and dragons in Japanese mythology.
**Attributes/Qualities:** Known for his wisdom, power over the sea, and connection to rainfall and agriculture, Ryujin is revered as a benevolent deity, though he can be wrathful if disrespected.
**Depictions/Representations:** Artistic depictions often show Ryujin as a dragon or a dragon-headed human, sometimes encircled by water or sea creatures.
**Worship/Temples:** While specific temples dedicated solely to Ryujin are rare, he is worshiped in various Shinto shrines and rituals, especially those connected to the sea and fishing communities.
**Symbols/Animals:** The dragon, turtle, and jellyfish are animals commonly associated with Ryujin, symbolizing longevity, power, and protection.
**Historical Influence:** Ryujin’s influence permeates Japanese art, literature, and rituals, reflecting the profound connection between the Japanese people and the sea.
**Sacred Texts:** References to Ryujin appear in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, ancient chronicles that explore Japan’s mythological and historical origins.
**Evolution:** Over time, Ryujin’s representation has evolved from a feared spirit of the sea to a revered deity of water and abundance.
**Modern Influence:** Ryujin remains a popular figure in modern Japanese culture, inspiring manga, anime, and festivals that celebrate the sea and its bounty.
**Titles/Epithets:** He is often called “The Dragon King” or “Lord of the Sea.”
**Sacred Sites:** While there are no specific sites solely dedicated to Ryujin, areas known for their beautiful and tumultuous seas are often associated with him.
**Attributes/Artifacts:** The tide jewels (kanju and manju) are significant artifacts, granting Ryujin control over the tides.
**Allies/Adversaries:** Ryujin is allied with other sea and river deities and occasionally interacts with terrestrial gods in mythology, navigating a complex network of divine relationships.
**Cosmology:** Within the Shinto cosmology, Ryujin occupies a critical role in the balance between the natural elements, especially water and its life-giving and destructive aspects.
**Philosophical/Religious Significance:** Ryujin embodies the interconnectedness of life, the cyclical nature of water, and the respect and reverence for nature that is central to Shinto beliefs.
**Power Score:** Given Ryujin’s control over the vast and powerful seas, his score could be estimated at around 150 out of 200, reflecting his significant but not omnipotent influence within the pantheon.
**Weapons/Tools:** Ryujin wields the tide jewels and his knowledge of the sea as his primary tools, rather than conventional weapons.
**Attack Points:** Considering the strategic importance of his artifacts and his control over the natural world, Ryujin’s attack points could be rated around 40 out of 50, highlighting his powerful but primarily non-combative nature.