Annei is a legendary Japanese emperor whose name means "peace, tranquillity," written with the kanji 安 (an) and 寧 (nei), both signifying "peace." According to Japanese tradition, Annei was the third emperor of Japan, the son of Suizei, and is considered a mythical figure whose reign is placed in the 6th century BC. Historians regard him as a "legendary emperor" because, like his father and grandfather Jimmu, his existence is not supported by contemporary evidence and is known only from early Japanese chronicles such as the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. Etymology and Meaning The name Annei (安寧) combines two kanji characters that both convey peace and calm: an (安) meaning "peaceful" or "safe," and nei (寧) meaning "tranquil" or "serene." This name reflects a theme of divine peace and harmony, which aligns with the names of his predecessors—Suizei, whose name also carries the meaning of "peace," and Jimmu (神武), meaning "divine warrior." The use of peaceful characters may indicate an idealized image of a ruler during a mythical age of stability. Historical and Legendary Context Emperor Annei is recorded as having reigned from 549 BC to 511 BC according to traditional accounts. The Kojiki and Nihon Shoki provide only his name and genealogy, with minimal anecdotal information. He is said to have married a woman named Nunasoko-hime (or Nunoshoko-hime) and fathered three sons. Upon his death, his second or third son, [Tokonui] or [Tokotsu], supposedly succeeded him as emperor, though the historical accuracy of these events is unverifiable. Notable Bearers The only notable bearer of this name is Emperor Annei, the third legendary emperor of Japan. His name appears exclusively within the imperial lineage narratives of early Japanese historiography, and there are no other significant figures by this name in recorded history. Cultural Significance Annei is part of a group of early Japanese emperors known as the "eight undocumented monarchs" (欠史八代, Kesshi Hachidai), whose reigns are presented in ancient texts but lack specific details or reliable documentation. His name underscores the Japanese tradition of using auspicious characters in imperial names, likely intended to legitimize the imperial line through symbolic meanings of peace and divine order. Meaning: "Peace, tranquillity" (from kanji 安 and 寧) Origin: Japanese Type: Legendary emperor name, first name Regions: Japan (historic/legendary) Related Names: Jimmu (root), Suizei (parent)