A
more reliable clue to the original relationship of the two shrines is their
relative position, with the Outer Shrine located due northwest of the Inner
Shrine. In the Chinese system of direction and astronomy with which the
Japanese were already intimate in the seventh century, the northwest is
considered to be the direction of nurture and support, and is associated
with the prime minister to the emperor. It is also specifically connected
with grains and cereals, which fits nicely with the identity of Toyouke.
The image of the Outer Shrine as provider to the Inner Shrine also squares
with the slightly higher prestige which has traditionally been accorded
the Inner Shrine, reflected in the very term "inner."