Keigin-ni (慶ぎん尼) was a Japanese noble woman member of Ryūzōji Clan during the Sengoku period. Often referred to as the『Widow of the Ryūzōji,』her life was intertwined with the fortunes of the Ryūzōji clan. She was described as a courageous woman and always carried a short sword named ''Fumonshu''.[1]
Born as the daughter of Ryūzōji Tanekazu, the sixteenth head of the prestigious Muranaka-Ryūzōji, the primary branch of the Ryūzōji clan, Keigin-ni's destiny was sealed from birth. She would go on to become the formal wife of Ryūzōji Kaneie, and their union produced a direct heir named Ryūzōji Takanobu. However, it is suggested that Kaneie's second and third sons, Ryūzōji Nobukane and Ryūzōji Naganobu, may have had a different mother. [2]
In 1545, the Ryūzōji clan faced a tragic turn of events when Kaneie was assassinated, allegedly as part of a plot orchestrated by Baba Yorichika, a senior retainer of the Shōni clan.
In 1556, Keigin-ni embarked on a new chapter of her life by marrying Nabeshima Kiyofusa, a loyal retainer of the Ryūzōji clan. This union resulted in her becoming the stepmother of Kiyofusa's lineal heir, Nabeshima Naoshige. As a result, Takanobu and Naoshige were not only cousins but also in-laws to each other.[3]
In 1570, during the intense Battle of Imayama, Saga Castle found itself besieged by a formidable army under the command of Ōtomo Sōrin. The dire situation led to a loss of morale within the castle walls, with Takanobu and Nobuo contemplating surrender to the Ōtomo. Keigin-ni, displaying remarkable courage and wisdom, confronted Takanobu, rebuking him for his timidity. She urged him to rely on Nobumasa and launch a daring nighttime assault against the Ōtomo forces on Mount Ima. This pivotal decision, inspired by Keigin-ni's leadership, led to the successful counterattack against the besiegers. Throughout this crucial period, Keigin-ni played an instrumental role in shaping decisions, fostering unity, and providing unwavering support to Takanobu.[4]
Following Takanobu's demise in the Battle of Okitanawate in 1584, Keigin-ni continued her active involvement in the governance of the province, extending her support to Ryūzōji Masaie, who assumed leadership of the clan.[2]
In 1587, Masaie joined the forces of Toyotomi Hideyoshi against the Shimazu clan. In the same year, he was confirmed as head of the Saga Domain (350,000 koku), later the control of the domain passed to Nabeshima Naoshige
Keigin-ni died on 1 March 1600 (in the 5th year of Keichō). While historical records suggest she lived to the remarkable age of ninety-two, there are varying theories regarding her true age. Keigin-ni's enduring legacy remains a testament to her resilience, leadership, and dedication during a tumultuous period in Japanese history.[4]
