Sebastian Rodrigues: From Idealist to Apostate

The internal transformation of Rodrigues from a zealous missionary to a fallen priest.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Early Zeal

Early Zeal The Dream of Martyrdom Rodrigues imagined a glorious martyrdom. He loved the face of Christ. He was determined to find Ferreira and prove the rumors false. The Journey He endured the sea voyage with faith. He believed God would protect him. Significance

Doubts Begin

Doubts Begin The Silence of God Watching Mokichi and Ichizo die, Rodrigues felt the silence of God. He began to question why God allowed such suffering. The Question of Meaning If God did not exist, the martyrs' deaths were absurd. This thought terrified him. Significance

The Fall

The Fall The Argument of Love Ferreira argued that Christ would have apostatized to save others. Rodrigues could not bear the moans of the Christians in the pit. He trampled the fumie. Aftermath He felt a strange joy. He was no longer a priest but had performed an act of love. He became Okada San'emon. Significance

Life as Okada San'emon

Life as Okada San'emon Japanese Identity Rodrigues took a Japanese name, married a Japanese woman, and lived in Nagasaki and later Edo. He was known as the Apostate Paul. Continued Ministry He still heard confessions, especially Kichijiro's. He believed he was not betraying Christ but loving him in a new way. Significance

Before departure, 1638

After the water punishment, June 1638

September 1638

From 1638 to 1679