The kami of the place and the roads
Ko no tokoro o ushihakimasu nani no ōkamioyobi asuhahiki no kamiyachimatahiko no kamiyachimatahime no kami no ōmae ni此の所を領り坐す何大神、及び阿須波比伎神・八衢彦神・八衢姫神の大前に
Kashikomi kashikomi mo mōsaku畏み畏みも白さく
14
The kami of the place and the roads
TranslationThe kami of the place and the roads
Includes interpretation
Before the great kami who governs this place, and before Ashuha-Hiki no Kami, Yachimatahiko no Kami, and Yachimatahime no Kami, these words are humbly declared with reverence.
Editorial note
Nanigami marks a variable place for the name of the local kami. This combination of kami follows the two reviewed Meiji-period examples and is not presented as universal to every travel rite.
Includes interpretation
As the person named here prepares to depart for the eastern provinces, sacred sake, food, and many kinds of offerings are presented on this auspicious and sufficient day. May they be received in peace.
Editorial note
“Where birds cry” is an old poetic epithet attached to Azuma, the eastern provinces. Nanigashi is a variable place for the traveler’s name. The historical destination has not been replaced with a generic modern one.
Includes interpretation
As the traveler passes the many bends of the road and the many river shallows, may the horse not stumble on the rugged mountain peaks. When traveling by sea, may the vessel not list amid the rising waves.
Editorial note
Horse and vessel are retained as the transport imagery of the historical text rather than silently modernized.
Includes interpretation
Along the long road, may nothing block the way and no obstruction arise; may the traveler continue in peace and safety. These words are humbly declared with reverence.
Editorial note
This historical prayer is not a substitute for traffic rules, operational judgment, insurance, safety equipment, or other practical precautions.
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