Learn about Gozu-Tenno, meaning "The Cow-Headed Emperor," and its origins in Shin Megami Tensei III: Nocturne HD Remaster.
Gozu-Tenno literally translates to "The Cow-Headed Emperor." It is widely believed that Gozu-Tenno is an imported version of the Chinese deity Niutou, which shares the same characters and means "Cow Head." In Chinese mythology, Niutou's role was to escort souls to the Yama Lords in the afterlife, accompanied by his partner Mamien (meaning "Horse Face," known as "Mezuki" in Japan).
At some point, Gozu-Tenno became conflated with Susa-no-O, leading to Gozu-Tenno being depicted as a guardian, Buddhified Susa-no-O. This is ironic given that in Shin Megami Tensei III: Nocturne HD Remaster, Gozu-Tenno largely opposes Buddhist ideals.
- The exact origins of Gozu-Tenno are somewhat ambiguous.
- Gozu-Tenno's association with Susa-no-O is a point of irony within the game's narrative.
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