Christian daimyo, Yukinaga Konishi
Born a merchant, became Commander of the Sea
Granted favour by God and man
Defended faith throughout the land
A youth once given his father's name
Twin strokes that promised a life of pain
Graven in paradoxical parts
Warrior with a gentle heart
In a world that met cruelty with acclaim
Defeat in war cost him his head
But faith he held unto his death:
"The things on Earth are all in vain
But when they pass, God shall remain."
Categories:
konishi, angst, christian, conflict, history,
Form: Clerihew
Bless me, Father, for I will sin
And go against your laws
But the winds of change are blowing
I must pick up the cause
At break of dawn I'll march to war
My sword will rise again
For our faith will be no more
Should our foe prevail
Sekigahara calls for me
To fight that raccoon fiend
But save me while I'm falling
Christ, my bosom friend
God of Mercy, I'm in your care
Your grace my strength to lift
This cross, your gift that I must bear
Along my battle flag
- In the voice of: Konishi Yukinaga (1558 - November 6, 1600), to Fr. Pedro Gomez, SJ.
-- The Battle of Sekigahara, 21st October 1600
* "that racoon fiend" refers to Tokugawa Ieyasu, who is often derisively referred to as tanuki (raccoon dog) by detractors.
Categories:
konishi, christian, conflict, confusion, courage,
Form: Other