The Sorcerer at the Heian Emperor's Court: Abe no Seimei, Master of Onmyōdō
The Son of a Fox, the Master of Shikigami
Abe no Seimei – a name that has, for centuries, become intertwined with myth, blending reality with legend to the point where it is difficult to distinguish one from the other. Born in 921 in the capital of the Heian period, Seimei was a man who uniquely bridged the spiritual world with the politics of the imperial court of his time. He was a Japanese sorcerer, a master of onmyōdō – a secretive art that extended far beyond astrology and divination. His duties included advising emperors in the most challenging moments of Japan’s history, from determining dates for battles or coronations to performing rituals aimed at preventing natural disasters.
But who exactly was Abe no Seimei? Was he merely a man, highly skilled in esoteric sciences, or perhaps a dark figure about whom legends contain at least a kernel of truth? Many believed that Seimei possessed abilities that allowed him to communicate with spirits, predict the future, and control powerful shikigami – spirits that, at his command, could influence the fates of people and the course of history. It is these elements of mythology that made him a hero not only of history but also of pop culture – from literature to modern anime and video games. Why has he remained such a popular figure?
The Heian period was a time filled with rituals, magic, and a pervasive fear of invisible forces. In such a world, Abe no Seimei rose to great power, becoming an advisor to the most influential aristocrats and the emperor. He was not only a master at interpreting the stars but also in understanding the human psyche – and from these skills, he created something deadly. Although for modern skeptics, his magic might seem like a relic of the past, it is undeniable that Seimei left a lasting mark on Japan's history. And not just as a historical figure but as a symbol of an era when magic and politics were inseparably linked.
Let us then explore the dark side of Heian Japan, which we usually associate with meditation, Buddhism, poetry, and tea ceremonies. Humanity, after all, always has its dark side, and so too must Heian Japan.
Where Did Abe no Seimei Come From?
Abe no Seimei (安倍晴明 – Seimei of the Abe clan), although a historical figure, has been shrouded in mystery from the very beginning. According to legend, Seimei was not an ordinary man – his birth was said to result from an extraordinary union between a human and a being from the otherworld. Seimei's father was Abe no Yasuna, of noble birth and connected to the imperial court, and his mother was a fox spirit, known as Kuzunoha (葛の葉). This story arises from Japanese folklore’s belief in kitsune – foxes that had the ability to transform into humans and influence the fates of mortals.
The story of Kuzunoha begins when Yasuna saves a fox from hunters. In gratitude, the fox took the form of a beautiful woman and married her rescuer. For a time, they lived in happiness, and, as one might expect, they had a son – Seimei. However, when Seimei was still a child, he unknowingly discovered his mother’s true nature. One day, he saw her in her real, animal form, which forced Kuzunoha to leave the family – such were the laws of the kitsune. Before she left for good, she met with her son one last time, giving him spiritual gifts and magical talismans from the god Inari, which were to forever change his life.
The legend of Abe’s magical origins was meant to explain why he possessed such powerful abilities. It was believed that thanks to his heritage, he could see spirits and communicate with beings from the otherworld – this was to be his advantage over other onmyōji. These talents, attributed to his fox blood, were said to make him one of the most powerful onmyōdō masters in Japan’s history.
Abe no Seimei as a Master of Onmyōdō
Abe no Seimei was the most famous master of onmyōdō (陰陽道), a system of mystical practices that originated in China and spread to Japan during the Heian culture (794–1185). Onmyōdō, however, was not a simple set of divination techniques – it was a syncretic system combining Taoism, Buddhism, Shintō, and elements of Chinese natural philosophy. Its goal was to study cosmic and earthly forces, such as yin-yang and the five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, and water), to influence the fates of people and nations. As a master of onmyōdō, Seimei perfectly understood and applied these principles, making him not only an astrologer but also a spiritual advisor and court magician.
What Is Onmyōdō?
Onmyōdō (陰陽道) literally means "The Way of Yin and Yang" or "The Way of Light and Shadow," and it refers to the Chinese system of cosmic balance between two opposing forces: yin (darkness, cold, passivity) and yang (light, warmth, activity). This system, developed in ancient China, was adopted by the Japanese and enriched with elements of native Shintō and Buddhism. Onmyōdō also drew on the philosophy of the five elements (五行, gogyo) and astrology, using the influence of stars and planets to predict the future, protect against evil spirits, and determine auspicious days for ceremonies and political decisions.
In practice, onmyōdō combined spiritual and para-scientific elements that were crucial to the functioning of the imperial court. An onmyōji – a person practicing onmyōdō – was responsible for a range of tasks, from astrological analysis to predicting natural phenomena, interpreting dreams, and performing protective rituals. For a society that lived in constant fear of natural disasters, diseases, and curses, onmyōdō played an essential role in daily life.
Onmyōdō was a unique product of Japanese culture, combining many spiritual and philosophical influences. From Taoism, it drew the idea of cosmic harmony and the concept of yin-yang; from Buddhism, it inherited meditative and ritualistic practices; and from native Shintō, it took respect for nature’s gods and spirits (kami). A significant part of onmyōdō was also geomancy – the art of predicting the future based on the analysis of land and natural forces. Onmyōji used their knowledge to protect people from evil spirits, curses, and unfavorable cosmic events, such as lunar eclipses or comets, which were considered ominous signs.
Onmyōdō reached its golden age during the reign of the aristocracy in Heian, but as power shifted into the hands of more pragmatic warriors (later known as samurai) during the Kamakura period and beyond, the importance of this art diminished. Gradually, in the Sengoku period, it faded, eventually disappearing during the Edo period.
The Role of Onmyōji at the Heian Court
During the Heian period, onmyōji played an important role at the imperial court. Their primary duty was to study star alignments and determine auspicious days for significant events, such as coronations, battles, and even marriages. Thanks to their abilities in predicting the future and performing protective rituals, onmyōji became indispensable advisors to the aristocracy and the emperor. Seimei, as a master of onmyōdō, thus had a profound impact on the politics and spiritual life of Japan. He was responsible not only for protecting the court from evil spirits but also for setting the imperial calendar and interpreting supernatural phenomena.
Abe no Seimei distinguished himself with his extraordinary ability to control shikigami – spirits that served onmyōji and could take various forms, from humans to animals to incorporeal entities. It was this legendary ability to command spirits and perform secret rituals that made him a notable onmyōji. Moreover, Seimei participated in many historical events, such as selecting the date for the coronation of Emperor Ichijō or performing ritual purification after a curse that could have threatened the court. Numerous stories of his power gave him a legendary status, both at the Heian court and in later folklore.
Seimei’s Career
Abe no Seimei was not only a legendary onmyōji but also an exceptionally influential advisor at the imperial court, where his skills and knowledge gave him a status surpassing even the highest aristocrats. His role at the court encompassed various tasks related to spirituality, astrology, and protecting the court from supernatural threats. Seimei was responsible for determining key dates for ceremonies, rituals, and maintaining the calendar, which was of great importance for the political and religious life during the Heian period.
One of Abe no Seimei's most important duties was advising on the choice of appropriate dates for major events such as coronations, weddings, and important battles. At that time, it was believed that an incorrect choice of date could have catastrophic consequences for the emperor and the entire kingdom. Seimei, with his knowledge of onmyōdō, could accurately interpret the movements of celestial bodies and signs from nature, indicating favorable or unfavorable moments for action. His calendar was used to determine auspicious days, ensuring the court’s safety and success in its undertakings.
One of the most famous examples of his skills was helping Emperor Ichijō, who suffered from a mysterious illness. Seimei, through purification rituals and his spiritual abilities, was said to have cured the emperor. His role was not limited to healing – Seimei often performed rituals aimed at protecting the court from spirits, curses, and other supernatural dangers, which were commonly believed to be the cause of misfortunes in society at the time.
Abe no Seimei maintained a special relationship with the powerful aristocrat Fujiwara no Michinaga, one of the most important politicians of the Heian period. Michinaga, who was regarded as the de facto ruler of Japan during his tenure, frequently sought Seimei’s advice, both in political and spiritual matters. Seimei advised Michinaga in difficult situations, such as interpreting ominous signs or protecting his family from curses. Seimei’s relationship with Michinaga was not limited to the spiritual sphere – Seimei's influence at the court was so significant that his advice directly impacted the political decisions made by Michinaga.
Legends of Abe no Seimei
Abe no Seimei is a figure whose life, though historically documented, has been surrounded by many legends that, over the centuries, shaped his mystical image. These stories, intertwining facts with myths, made him the most famous onmyōji in Japanese folklore. Below are some of the most important legends that build the mysterious aura around him.
The Ability to Control Shikigami
One of the most frequently mentioned stories about Seimei is his exceptional ability to control shikigami – spirits that could take various forms, from animals to human figures, serving their master. According to legend, Seimei was the strongest onmyōji, capable of summoning and controlling these spirits effortlessly, and his shikigami were particularly powerful.
In one tale, an old monk arrived at Seimei’s residence with two children, asking to learn the art of onmyōdō. Seimei immediately sensed that the children were not who they appeared to be – they were shikigami, spirits summoned by the monk, who was trying to test the great onmyōji’s skills. Without hesitation, Seimei cast a spell that instantly revealed the true nature of these beings – the children transformed into misty, demonic figures.
Then, with a few gestures and words, he destroyed them in a single move, demonstrating both his power and mastery of the art of onmyōdō. The monk, shocked by Seimei's speed and power, realized that he was not facing an ordinary master – Seimei stood at the boundary between the human and spirit worlds, controlling forces that others only feared.
Rivalry with Ashiya Dōman
Seimei also had a famous rival – Ashiya Dōman (蘆屋道満), who was also an onmyōji, though not as talented, and who worked at the imperial court during the same period. Their rivalry became part of the legend, and in many stories, Dōman tried to outwit Seimei, but always ended up failing. In one of the most commonly cited stories, Dōman, jealous of Seimei’s talent, engaged him in a divination contest. Seimei easily predicted how many beads Dōman had hidden in his hand, humiliating him and confirming his superiority.
The most dramatic story concerning the rivalry between Abe no Seimei and Ashiya Dōman is the legend of the magical scrolls. According to the tale, while Seimei was in China, deepening his knowledge of onmyōdō, Dōman cunningly seduced his wife Rika to gain access to his house. Taking advantage of a moment of her inattention, Dōman stole two secret boxes from Seimei’s home, which were sealed with magical seals. Using his own magical skills, Dōman managed to open the boxes and discovered ancient texts of immense power.
When Seimei returned to Japan, Dōman decided to publicly humiliate him. During a feast organized at the imperial court, Dōman presented the stolen scrolls, boasting of his victory. Seimei, keeping calm, seemingly admitted defeat, allowing Dōman to relish his moment of triumph. However, at the very moment when Dōman thought he had won, all of his servants – who had been attending to him during the feast – turned into bundles of straw, revealing that they had been shikigami controlled by Seimei all along.
This moment, when it became clear that Seimei had been manipulating the situation the entire time, completely surprised Dōman. Although he had managed to steal the scrolls, Seimei demonstrated that his true power lay not in possessing magical artifacts but in surpassing his rival in skill and mastery.
The Night Parade of a Hundred Demons (Hyakki Yagyō)
According to another story, Abe no Seimei, as a child, witnessed the Hyakki Yagyō – the “Night Parade of a Hundred Demons” (more on this phenomenon can be found here: Hyakki Yagyō – The Night When a Hundred Japanese Yōkai Demons Take to the Streets). This parade was one of the most terrifying and dangerous events in Japanese folklore, and it was said that whoever saw demons marching at night would be kidnapped or killed.
However, young Seimei, endowed with extraordinary abilities, not only survived the encounter but also managed to return home safely, which only confirmed his supernatural ability to see spirits and demons. Above all, shrouded in mystery are the things he managed to bring back from that encounter.
The Legend of Seimei’s Stone Piles
Another legend about Abe no Seimei tells of his journey to a village that regularly suffered from destructive tsunamis. The villagers, desperate and afraid, turned to Seimei, pleading for help. The onmyōji, known for his extraordinary power and ability to predict the future, responded to their prayers. Seimei gathered small, red stones and began a ritual of prayers, stacking them in piles along the shore. Each stone symbolized a prayer addressed to the gods, asking for protection of the village from the elements.
From the moment Seimei completed the ritual, no tsunami ever struck the village again. People believed that the power of prayers and Seimei’s magical intervention had stopped the mighty waves. Moreover, the stone piles have survived for centuries, and even today, they are visited by pilgrims who believe that they hold the power to protect against natural disasters (this place is known as Seimei-zuka - 晴明塚 - and is located in Kakegawa, in Shizuoka Prefecture).
Abe no Seimei in the 21st Century
As one might easily guess, Abe no Seimei is a figure perfectly suited for modern pop culture. His legend continues to live on not only in traditional stories but also in contemporary media – from films to literature and even video games, and it is thriving more than ever.
Film
One of the most famous contemporary portrayals of Seimei in cinema is the "Onmyoji" film series, based on the novels by Baku Yumemakura. In the films from 2001 and 2003, Abe no Seimei, played by actor Mansai Nomura, is depicted as a highly skilled onmyōji who battles supernatural forces, trying to protect the emperor and the court from evil spirits and curses. These films gained popularity not only in Japan but also in other Asian countries, bringing Seimei international recognition. Their success led to a sequel and numerous theatrical and television adaptations.
Games
Abe no Seimei also appears in numerous video games, where his role as a master of onmyōdō is interpreted in various ways. One example is the popular "Nioh" game series, where Seimei appears as a supporting character to the protagonist, offering his knowledge and magical abilities. The game introduces elements of combat with supernatural creatures, and Seimei fits perfectly into this atmosphere, serving both as an advisor and a powerful ally in battles against demons.
In mobile games, such as "Onmyoji" by NetEase Games, Seimei is one of the main characters, and players can use his powers to control spirits and demons. This game, incredibly popular in Asia, introduces the world of onmyōdō to a broad audience, combining traditional Japanese beliefs with a modern form of interactive entertainment.
Seimei also appears in other games, such as "Fate/Grand Order," where he is portrayed as a powerful mage and spiritual warrior. In this universe, based on the concept of summoning historical and mythical figures, Seimei serves as a powerful support character, capable of manipulating the forces of nature and the occult.
The Abe no Seimei Shrine in Kyoto
One of the most famous places associated with Abe no Seimei is his shrine in Kyoto, dedicated to the master of onmyōdō. Interestingly, it is located on the site of Seimei’s former residence. Built in 1007 at the behest of Emperor Ichijō, the shrine has, for centuries, attracted both pilgrims and those seeking protection from evil spirits or illness.
Upon entering the shrine grounds, the five-pointed star – a pentagram (gobōsei symbolizes the five elements of nature in Japan and is different from the pentagram in Europe, of course) – immediately catches the eye, a symbol that Seimei was said to use in his rituals. This is not only a symbol of protection but also a powerful magical seal meant to ward off evil spirits. The shrine is full of such symbolism – from stones in the courtyard to the decorations on buildings and gates.
One of the most important features of the shrine is Seimei Ido, a well that, according to legend, was filled with magical water by Seimei. It is said that the water never dries up, and some claim it has healing properties. Many pilgrims draw water from it, hoping for protection from illness and misfortune. The shrine also houses a statue of shikigami, the spirits that, according to legend, Seimei could command, controlling and using them in battles against demons. This place is rich in both historical and spiritual significance, and its dark aura attracts those who want to experience the mystical side of ancient Japan.
Conclusion
The life of Abe no Seimei is a blend of history and legend, where the reality of the Heian period intertwines with the dark symbolism and mysteries of onmyōdō. For many, he was not only an advisor to emperors but also a master who could delve into the secrets of unseen forces and use them to his advantage. His role at the imperial court, in politics, rituals, and astrology, made Seimei more than just a scholar – he became a legend whose echo resounds through the ages.
Onmyōdō, the art he practiced, was not a simple collection of superstitions, but a craft of precise interpretation of nature and its cycles, closely tied to the political realities of his time. Abe no Seimei did not just predict the future for his patrons but, through his prophecies, controlled them, and consequently, though indirectly, controlled Japan.
Although today his story may seem like a fairy tale, the impact he had on culture is undeniable. As a figure who permeates Japanese literature, theater, and games, Abe no Seimei continues to live in the imagination of successive generations.
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未開 ソビエライ
An enthusiast of Asian culture with a deep appreciation for the diverse philosophies of the world. By education, a psychologist and philologist specializing in Korean studies. At heart, a programmer (primarily for Android) and a passionate technology enthusiast, as well as a practitioner of Zen and mono no aware. In moments of tranquility, adheres to a disciplined lifestyle, firmly believing that perseverance, continuous personal growth, and dedication to one's passions are the wisest paths in life. Author of the book "Strong Women of Japan" (>>see more)
Personal motto:
"The most powerful force in the universe is compound interest." - Albert Einstein (probably)
Mike Soray
(aka Michał Sobieraj)
未開 ソビエライ
An enthusiast of Asian culture with a deep appreciation for the diverse philosophies of the world. By education, a psychologist and philologist specializing in Korean studies. At heart, a programmer (primarily for Android) and a passionate technology enthusiast, as well as a practitioner of Zen and mono no aware. In moments of tranquility, adheres to a disciplined lifestyle, firmly believing that perseverance, continuous personal growth, and dedication to one's passions are the wisest paths in life. Author of the book "Strong Women of Japan" (>>see more)
Personal motto:
"The most powerful force in the universe is compound interest." - Albert Einstein (probably)
Mike Soray
(aka Michał Sobieraj)
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