In Japanese mythology, the figure of Yama represents the god of death and is often associated with the afterlife. Yama, known for judging the souls of the deceased, determines their fate in the realm beyond. This figure embodies the inevitable nature of mortality and is integral to beliefs surrounding death and rebirth. Yama's character reflects cultural attitudes towards death, emphasizing the importance of ethical living and the consequences of one's actions in life. This belief system reinforces morality and provides guidance for the living regarding what lies beyond.