Story Summary
Discover The Tanabata Legend, a Japanese myth of star-crossed lovers Orihime and Hikoboshi, separated by the Milky Way and reunited only once a year on July 7.
Orihime, the daughter of the Sky King, wove shimmering cloth by the banks of the Heavenly River, the Milky Way. On the opposite shore lived Hikoboshi, a hardworking cowherd. When the Sky King introduced them, they fell instantly in love and married. However, their happiness became a distraction; Orihime stopped weaving, and Hikoboshi’s cows wandered off. Enraged by their negligence, the Sky King separated them, placing one on each side of the river. Distraught, the lovers pleaded for mercy. Moved by their tears, the King allowed them to meet just once a year on the seventh night of the seventh month. Each year, if the sky is clear, magpies form a bridge with their wings, allowing the two stars to reunite in a brief, joyful embrace.
The Moral
True love requires the balance of devotion and responsibility, and perseverance can bridge even the widest divides.
“Even the vast river of stars cannot drown the fire of a love that waits a year for a single night.”
Fun Fact
The Tanabata festival was inspired by the Chinese Qixi Festival and was first introduced to the Japanese imperial court in the 8th century.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of The Tanabata Legend?
The story teaches that one must balance personal happiness with duty and responsibility. It also serves as a testament to the power of hope and the endurance of love despite physical separation.
What happens if it rains on Tanabata?
If it rains, the Heavenly River is said to overflow, preventing the magpies from forming a bridge. The lovers must then wait another full year to see each other, with the rain representing their tears.
Who are the two main stars in the Tanabata story?
The legend is based on real stars in the night sky. Orihime is the star Vega, and Hikoboshi is the star Altair, which are separated by the Milky Way galaxy.
How do people celebrate Tanabata today?
People celebrate by writing wishes on colorful strips of paper called tanzaku and hanging them on bamboo branches. The festival features large parades, decorations, and traditional foods like somen noodles.
Why were Orihime and Hikoboshi separated?
They were separated by the Sky King because they became so consumed by their romance that they neglected their work. Orihime stopped weaving celestial robes, and Hikoboshi allowed his cattle to roam unattended.
What is the significance of the magpies?
The magpies represent compassion and the idea that the universe conspires to help those with pure hearts. They act as the only path for the lovers to cross the otherwise impassable Heavenly River.