 Honkyō refers to the genealogy of our emperor and the ancient matters (furukoto) of the divine age which convey the truth of when heaven and earth were formed. When viewing the ancient matters, on the surface it appears shallow, but underneath lies a deep will. People of the world perceive shallowness of their surface and dismiss, or insult and ridicule it, and believe it is inferior to Confucian and Buddhist writings. Something I, Takamasa, remember from my youth, is that I lamented this. Wondering how I could draw out this deep will, I sincerely prayed to the Great Goddess Amaterasu and the God Omoikane, that I may discern that divine providence, to draw out that hidden will. Thus I became one who teaches people broadly about this. (1855 [1971: 404])