A Fascinating Discovery of a Vase Linked to Japan's Hidden Christians
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Chapter 1: The Vase's Unveiling
A remarkable artifact, believed to belong to the era of Japan's "hidden Christians," has recently come to light. This vase, which features an enigmatic inscription, has drawn the attention of scientists in Japan.
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Section 1.1: A Family Heirloom
Within a Japanese household lies an antique vase that appears unremarkable at first glance. Standing 25 centimeters tall, this vessel has been treasured and passed down through generations. However, its original purpose remained a mystery until a family member decided to consult experts in Nagasaki Prefecture. The only hint to its past usage was the curious word "Escencia" inscribed at its base.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Vase's Historical Context
Local scholars conducted both chemical and historical analyses and concluded that the vase dates back to the Kakure-kirishitan period, which refers to the clandestine followers of Christianity during a time when the faith was outlawed in Japan under the Tokugawa (Edo) regime. Researchers determined that this vase was likely used to store chrism, a sacred anointing oil used in various Christian sacraments, including baptism and ordination.
Section 1.2: Possible Connections to Historical Figures
Archaeologists from Nagasaki Prefecture believe the vase was crafted in China around the year 1600. At that time, the Jesuit priest Luís Cerqueira served as the Christian bishop in Japan, overseeing the Diocese of Funai until his death in 1614. There is speculation that this vase may have been utilized during the baptism of Konishi Yukinagi, a notable Japanese feudal lord, in 1599 on the Amakusa Islands. The prefectural government recognizes the vase as a significant artifact that enhances our understanding of the hidden Christian community.
Chapter 2: The Dark Ages of Christianity in Japan
The first video titled My Trip through the Sad History of Japan's Hidden Christian delves into the historical context and struggles faced by the hidden Christians in Japan. It explores their secretive practices and the societal challenges they endured.
The second video, The Hidden Religion Banned in Japan for 200 Years - BBC REEL, provides an insightful overview of the prolonged persecution faced by Christians in Japan, focusing on the impact of the Tokugawa shogunate's policies.
In 1614, the Tokugawa shogunate sought to eliminate potential threats by banning Christianity while preparing for war against the Toyotomi clan. Many missionaries were expelled, yet some continued to practice their faith in secret, risking their lives for their beliefs. The authorities escalated their persecution, employing torture and forced conversions to eliminate any dissent.
For over 280 years, the underground ministry of these hidden Christians persisted despite severe repression. Various uprisings occurred, but most were met with harsh suppression. It wasn't until 1898 that the Kakure-kirishitan finally achieved a semblance of religious tolerance.
Chapter 3: Recent Archaeological Discoveries
In a related archaeological find, five ancient figurines representing women were uncovered in a cave in Ukraine, linked to the Cucuteni-Trypole culture. This discovery further enriches our understanding of historical societies and their artistic expressions.
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