1. "Change of heart" or "Conversion": This is the more common meaning of "tenko," especially in historical contexts. It refers to a forced or coerced change of allegiance or ideology, often under duress, such as in a prisoner of war camp or during wartime.
2. "Heavenly Fortune": This meaning is less common and refers to good fortune or luck, often in a spiritual or mystical context.
Historical Context:
The term "tenko" is often used in relation to World War II, particularly regarding Japanese soldiers and civilians captured by Allied forces. Many prisoners were subjected to intense psychological and physical pressure to renounce their allegiance to Japan and embrace the "enemy" ideology. Those who were deemed to have undergone a genuine "tenko" were often given preferential treatment and released earlier.
However, the notion of "tenko" as a genuine change of heart is debated. Some scholars argue that many prisoners adopted a facade of conversion to survive, while others maintain that some individuals genuinely changed their views.
Other Uses:
"Tenko" is also used in other contexts, like in Japanese literature and philosophy, where it might refer to a spiritual awakening or a change in perspective.
Overall, the meaning of "tenko" is multifaceted and depends heavily on the context in which it is used.