BITS ‘N’ PIECES

Narrated Anas (R.A):

The Prophet (S.A.W) said, “Medina is a sanctuary from that place to that. Its trees should not be cut and no heresy should be innovated nor any sin should be committed in it, and whoever innovates in it an heresy or commits sins (bad deeds), then he will incur the curse of Allah, the angels, and all the people.”

Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 30, Number 91

DID YOU KNOW?

Emperor Naruhito is the 126th emperor to ascend to the Chrysanthemum Throne.

While there are several monarchies that date back over one thousand years, there is one throne that dates back over two thousand years. The Japanese monarchy, also known as the Chrysanthemum Throne, was officially founded in 440 BCE. The Japanese imperial family is said to be the longest continuous hereditary monarchy in the world. According to legend, the Japanese imperial line can be traced back to Emperor Jimmu, who is said to have ascended to the throne in 660 BC., but the historical accuracy of his reign is debated among scholars.

Throughout its long history, the Japanese monarchy has played a central role in shaping the country’s culture, traditions, and identity. The emperor was traditionally seen as a divine figure, with religious and ceremonial duties that were central to the Shinto religion. The monarchy also served as a symbol of unity and continuity in Japanese society, especially during times of political upheaval and change.

Following World War II, the position of the emperor was redefined as a ceremonial role with no political power. The current head of the monarchy is Emperor Naruhito, the 126th emperor who ascended to the Chrysanthemum Throne after his father, Emperor Emeritus Akihito, abdicated in 2019.

In its long history, the Japanese monarchy has faced challenges and controversies. The imperial family has been criticized for its perceived aloofness and disconnect from the general population. There have also been debates about the cost of maintaining the monarchy and whether it is still relevant in modern Japan.

Despite these challenges, the Japanese monarchy remains an important symbol of the country’s cultural heritage and national identity. The imperial family continues to carry out ceremonial duties and engagements, maintaining traditions that have been passed down for centuries. They are also one of the last royal families to prohibit female successors. Naruhito and his wife, Empress Masako, have one child: daughter Aiko, Princess Toshi.

Under the current law, the throne will not succeed to her but to Naruhito’s younger brother, Fumihito, Crown Prince Akishino. There have been discussions in recent years for legislators to modernize the laws around male-only succession and women with non-royal spouses, but so far the old law of succession has remained unchanged.