Saint Paul Miki and Companions
Saint Paul Miki and Companions, often called the 26 Martyrs of Japan, are Japanese Christian saints commemorated today (6 February) in many Christian calendars.
Who were they?
Paul Miki
Paul Miki (1562–1597) was a Japanese Jesuit seminarian, renowned for his intelligence and preaching skill. Born into a samurai family, he became one of the earliest native Japanese Christian leaders during a time when Christianity was rapidly spreading in Japan.
His Companions
The other 25 martyrs were a diverse group:
- Jesuits, Franciscans, and lay catechists
- Japanese and European missionaries
- Adults and children (the youngest was about 12)
This diversity is one of the most striking aspects of their witness.
Historical background
In the late 16th century, Christianity was viewed by Japan’s rulers as a threat to social order and political control. Under Toyotomi Hideyoshi, an anti-Christian crackdown began.
In 1597, Paul Miki and his companions were:
- Arrested
- Mutilated (their ears partially cut as a warning)
- Forced to march about 600 miles across Japan
- Crucified on Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki
Their witness
While dying on the cross, Paul Miki preached, forgiving his executioners and proclaiming faith in Christ. His final sermon emphasized:
- Forgiveness
- Loyalty to conscience
- Peace over violence
Their calm courage deeply impressed both Christians and non-Christians.
Why they are remembered
- Canonized in 1862
- Honored across Catholic, Anglican, and some Protestant traditions
- Symbolize:
- Faith under persecution
- Unity across cultures
- The early roots of Christianity in Japan
Reflection prompt
Where do you see quiet courage or faithfulness today… perhaps unnoticed, but deeply meaningful?
日本二十六聖人（にほん にじゅうろくせいじん）
記念日：2月6日
聖パウロ三木とその同志たち
パウロ三木（1562–1597）は、日本で生まれ育ったキリスト者で、イエズス会の修道士でした。聡明で雄弁な説教者として知られ、日本人による最初期のキリスト教指導者の一人です。
彼とともに殉教した25人の同志には、
- フランシスコ会士やイエズス会士
- 日本人および外国人宣教師
- 信徒や子ども（最年少はおよそ12歳）
が含まれていました。身分や国籍、年齢を超えた共同体でした。
歴史的背景
16世紀末、日本で広がりつつあったキリスト教は、政治的・社会的秩序を脅かすものと見なされました。豊臣秀吉の治世下で禁教が強化され、1597年、彼らは捕らえられます。
彼らは見せしめとして耳の一部を切られ、京都から長崎まで約1,000キロを歩かされ、最終的に長崎・西坂の丘で十字架につけられました。
殉教の証し
十字架上で、パウロ三木は最後の説教を行い、迫害者を赦し、信仰と平和を語りました。恐れではなく、静かな確信と希望をもって死に臨んだ姿は、多くの人々の心を打ちました。
意義と遺産
- 1862年に列聖
- カトリック教会をはじめ、他のキリスト教伝統でも記憶される
- 日本における初期キリスト教の根と、
信念・赦し・文化を超えた連帯の象徴
黙想の問い
困難な状況の中で、あなたが大切に守りたい「信念」や「良心」は何でしょうか。
ご希望があれば、
- 日本二十六聖人に基づく短い祈り
- 子ども向けのやさしい物語
- 同時代の他の日本の殉教者や賢人
もご紹介できます。
Short Prayer inspired by the Japanese Martyrs
God of courage and peace,
you strengthened Paul Miki and his companions
to remain faithful in suffering
and to answer hatred with forgiveness.
Grant us quiet courage in our trials,
clarity of conscience in times of fear,
and hearts that choose peace over violence.
As the martyrs bore witness with humility and hope,
may our lives also speak of truth, compassion,
and love that endures.
Amen.
Brief Meditation
Imagine the hill at Nagasaki—
wind, silence, and steadfast hearts.
No cries for revenge, only trust.
Ask yourself:
Where am I called today to respond with courage and gentleness?
Remain in silence for a moment,
breathing in peace,
breathing out fear.
