According to Japanese mythology as written in works such as the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, the Sumiyoshi Sanjin were born together with the Watatsumi Sanjin (綿津見三神) when Izanagi performed a purification ceremony after returning from Yomi. Sumiyoshi also enjoys a second incarnation as the kami of medicine, healing, further reinforcing Munetsuchi's ability to heal.