Narukami

Narukami (鳴神) is a Japanese term that translates to "singing god" or "divine voice," often associated with the concept of kami (神), the Shinto belief in spirits or deities inhabiting natural elements and phenomena. The term is most prominently linked to the *Narukami Shrine* (鳴神神社) located in the city of Kure, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. This shrine is dedicated to the kami of thunder and lightning, particularly the deity known as *Raijin* (雷神), who is frequently depicted in Japanese folklore as a storm god wielding a thunderbolt.

The shrine's origins trace back to the Heian period (794–1185), though its exact founding date remains unclear. It is believed to have been established to appease the kami responsible for thunderstorms, which were historically feared for their destructive potential. The name "Narukami" may derive from the sound of thunder, as the kami were thought to communicate through natural phenomena like storms.

Narukami Shrine holds cultural significance as a place of worship and protection against lightning strikes. Pilgrims visit to pray for safety and to honor the divine forces of nature. The shrine’s architecture and rituals reflect traditional Shinto practices, emphasizing harmony with the natural world. Over time, the term *Narukami* has also entered broader Japanese culture, appearing in literature, art, and media as a symbol of the mystical and powerful aspects of nature.

While the shrine remains a focal point for its association with Narukami, the broader concept of the "singing god" persists in Japanese spiritual and mythological traditions, representing the interconnectedness of humans and the divine forces of the environment.