Terminology

I am sure that if you are new to InuYasha series, there are a few Japanese terms that you may not understand or recognize. I have provided the most basic vocabulary from the series that needs to be known in order to understand the plot and characters of InuYasha.

Goshinboku – The tree that Inuyasha was sealed to by Kikyou. It is a time tree that also connects to itself in present day Japan where Kagome’s house is. Kagome uses it a few times to connect with Inuyasha if he is near it in feudal times.

Hama no Ya – The sacred arrows used by both Kagome and Kikyou.

Hanyou – In other words: half-demon. This is what Inuyasha is classified as, since he is not human, nor is he a demon. Half-demons do not really fit in anywhere, and it the word is thrown out like an insult to Inuyasha by most.

Miko – It is difficult to find an English word for "miko", but the most commonly used is "shrine maiden". They are women that are in service of Shinto shrines. The dub of InuYasha calls Kikyou a priestess, but in actuality, “miko” and “priestess” are not the same thing, as miko do not have the same authority as priests.

Sengoku period – Better known as the Warring States period. It was a time of social upheaval in Japan that is dated around the middle of the 15th century to the beginning of the 17th century. This is the time period that the feudal era of InuYasha is supposed to take place during. More?

Shikon no Tama – Is the Jewel of Four Souls which grants tremendous power to the person who obtains it, even if they only have a small shard of it. More detailed information can be found here.

Youkai – Simply meaning “demon”.

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