The relationship between Takamimusubi and Ame-no-Minakanushi reminds me quite a lot of the Varronian interpretation of the relationship between Jupiter and Janus. Jupiter is the constant force rationalizing and generating the entire world, but Janus is the source of all beginnings, and therefore Janus is invoked first in prayers and is considered to have come first, despite being of lower rank than Jupiter. I suppose a similar relationship would be that between Vishnu and Brahma. Although, the Hindus eventually placed Brahma as springing forth from Vishnu so as to avoid confusion about which one is more powerful.
You might find other elements of Roman religion, especially early Roman religion, applicable in the Shinto context. IIRC every Roman god may have originally been a duo, a male and female god, and I know in your next post you talk about primeval Kami coming in pairs.
Interesting. I'll certainly look into this stuff. I had plans to at least mention more Roman concepts later on, particularly in regards to the Izumo myth cycle, but it wouldn't hurt to include more. Thanks!
The relationship between Takamimusubi and Ame-no-Minakanushi reminds me quite a lot of the Varronian interpretation of the relationship between Jupiter and Janus. Jupiter is the constant force rationalizing and generating the entire world, but Janus is the source of all beginnings, and therefore Janus is invoked first in prayers and is considered to have come first, despite being of lower rank than Jupiter. I suppose a similar relationship would be that between Vishnu and Brahma. Although, the Hindus eventually placed Brahma as springing forth from Vishnu so as to avoid confusion about which one is more powerful.
You might find other elements of Roman religion, especially early Roman religion, applicable in the Shinto context. IIRC every Roman god may have originally been a duo, a male and female god, and I know in your next post you talk about primeval Kami coming in pairs.
Interesting. I'll certainly look into this stuff. I had plans to at least mention more Roman concepts later on, particularly in regards to the Izumo myth cycle, but it wouldn't hurt to include more. Thanks!