1. The Ocean as a Boundary Between Worlds:
The ocean acts as a symbolic barrier separating the mundane human world from the mystical underwater realm. This reinforces the Japanese concept of "ima" (now) and "mukashi" (long ago), where the present is distinct from the past, and the past is often associated with the supernatural.
2. The Ocean as a Symbol of Timelessness:
The underwater palace where Urashima Taro visits is described as a place where time flows differently, if at all. This aligns with the Japanese notion of "ma", which refers to a sense of space and time that is not linear but fluid and flexible. The underwater world represents a realm where "ma" prevails, and the passage of time is not measured in the same way as the human world.
3. The Ocean as a Reminder of Impermanence:
Urashima Taro's eventual return to the human world after spending time in the underwater palace highlights the impermanence of life and the inevitable passage of time. His journey serves as a reminder of the "mujo" (impermanence) principle, a cornerstone of Buddhist philosophy adopted in Japanese culture. The ocean, through its vastness and mysterious nature, embodies this concept, emphasizing the constant flux of life and the ephemerality of existence.
4. The Ocean as a Symbol of Transformation:
Urashima Taro's experience in the underwater world signifies a transformation, a shift in his perception of time and reality. This reflects the Japanese concept of "atarashii" (new) and "kaiten" (change), where life is viewed as a continuous cycle of growth and transformation. The ocean becomes a symbolic gateway for this transformation, leading Urashima Taro to a new understanding of time and his place in the world.
Overall, the portrayal of the ocean in Urashima Taro reflects a rich tapestry of Japanese cultural attitudes towards time: the clear separation between the past and present, the importance of fluidity and flexibility in time perception, the awareness of impermanence, and the transformative power of experience. It emphasizes that time is not merely a linear progression but a multifaceted concept intertwined with the natural world and the human experience.