The Beginning of Heaven and Earth

Exploring the Kakure Kirishitan's hidden faith, The Beginning of Heaven and Earth reveals a unique blend of Christianity and Japanese culture.

The Beginning of Heaven and Earth offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of the Kakure Kirishitan, or 'hidden Christians,' who practiced their faith in secrecy for centuries. This unique book is a translation of the Kakure bible, which combines elements of Bible stories, Japanese folklore, and Roman Catholic teachings. The narrative begins in 1865 when a French priest encounters a group of Japanese individuals at his church in Nagasaki, descendants of the first Christians in Japan. They had survived severe persecution under the Tokugawa regime, preserving their beliefs in the shadows.

As the priest receives a copy of the Kakure bible, known as the Tenchi Hajimari no Koto, he becomes intrigued by its content. The Beginning of Heaven and Earth presents not only a complete translation but also an insightful commentary that explores the origins and evolution of this fascinating text. This commentary sheds light on the complexities of the Kakure Kirishitan's faith and their unique interpretation of Christianity, which blends various cultural elements.

Today, the remaining Kakure Kirishitan communities perceive the Tenchi as a flawed representation of their beliefs, viewing it as a distorted form of Christianity. Yet, the Beginning of Heaven and Earth remains a vital document that illustrates their syncretistic tradition, providing valuable insights into the processes of religious adaptation and cultural exchange in Japan's history.