Skip to main content

The Japanese folktale of the selfish scholar - Iseult Gillespie

2,411,972 Views

9,929 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

In ancient Kyoto, a Shinto scholar found himself distracted from his prayers and sought to perform a purification ritual that would cleanse him. He decided to travel to the revered Hie Shrine; walking the path alone, ignoring any distractions in his quest for balance, and never straying. But setting out for home one day, he hears desperate pleas for help. Iseult Gillespie shares the tale of mercy.

Why was the monk reluctant to help the young woman?

Sign in to answer question

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Iseult Gillespie
  • Director Amir Houshang Moein
  • Narrator Jack Cutmore-Scott
  • Animator Amir Houshang Moein
  • Art Director Amir Houshang Moein
  • Storyboard Artist Amir Houshang Moein
  • Director of Production Gerta Xhelo
  • Editorial Director Alex Rosenthal
  • Producer Bethany Cutmore-Scott
  • Editorial Producer Dan Kwartler
  • Fact-Checker Eden Girma

More from The World's People and Places