onryo

Onryō (怨霊) is a concept originating from Japanese folklore and traditional Shinto and Buddhist beliefs, referring to vengeful spirits that seek retribution against those they perceive as responsible for their death or suffering. The term combines *on* (怨), meaning "grudge" or "resentment," and *ryō* (霊), meaning "spirit" or "soul." Onryō are often depicted as malevolent entities that torment the living, particularly in the form of nightmares, illness, or sudden misfortune.

The origins of onryō can be traced back to ancient Japanese animistic beliefs, where spirits were believed to linger in the world of the living if their deaths were unjust or their grievances unresolved. In classical literature and theater, such as *Noh* and *Kabuki* performances, onryō are frequently portrayed as tragic figures whose suffering has twisted them into vengeful beings. One of the most famous examples is *Tokiwa no Yae*, a woman from the *Heike Monogatari* (The Tale of the Heike) who, after being killed by her husband’s enemies, becomes an onryō seeking revenge.

Onryō are often associated with specific rituals and exorcisms in Japanese religious practices. Shinto priests and Buddhist monks perform ceremonies to appease or banish these spirits, using prayers, offerings, and symbolic acts to restore balance. In modern times, the concept of onryō has influenced Japanese horror media, including films, manga, and video games, where vengeful spirits are often depicted as supernatural threats.

While the belief in onryō has diminished in contemporary Japan, they remain a significant cultural symbol, representing themes of justice, unresolved grief, and the consequences of moral transgressions. The legend continues to fascinate as a reflection of human emotions and the supernatural consequences of unresolved conflicts.