The Story of Creation Told to Christian Japanese Princes

The Story of Creation Told to Christian Japanese Princes

In the beginning, there was nothing but chaos—a formless void. Then, with a divine breath, the universe came into existence. This is the story of creation as told in the Book of Genesis, a narrative that shares the beauty of the world's inception and the harmony that emerged from the hands of the Creator.

Imagine, if you will, a garden. Not just any garden, but one that mirrors the tranquil and meticulously arranged gardens of Japan—gardens that represent miniature and idealized landscapes. In the same way, the Garden of Eden was an embodiment of divine perfection, a place where every tree, every flowing stream, and every creature was in its rightful place, living in balance and peace.

In this sacred space, the first humans, Adam and Eve, were placed. They were the caretakers of this paradise, much like the gardeners who tend to the karesansui, ensuring that every rock and sand pattern remains impeccable. The Garden of Eden was a reflection of the ultimate harmony between humanity and nature, a theme that resonates deeply with the Shinto belief of kami, where every element of nature is inhabited by the divine.

The story of creation is not merely about the origins of the earth but also about the intrinsic order that governs life—a concept that echoes in the Japanese principle of wa, or harmony. It teaches us that every living being has a role to play, a purpose to fulfill, and that by respecting this natural order, we honor the Creator's design.

As Christian princes of Japan, you are heirs to a legacy of both faith and culture. The story of creation bridges these worlds, inviting you to see the hand of the divine in the beauty of your surroundings and to strive for harmony in your actions and relationships. It is a reminder that, in the beginning, all was good, and it is our sacred duty to preserve that goodness in the world we inhabit.

Let us carry the spirit of the Garden of Eden in our hearts, nurturing the seeds of peace and balance in every aspect of our lives, just as we would tend to the most exquisite garden, creating a living masterpiece that honors both our Creator and our rich cultural heritage.