guardian deity of silkworms
A folkloric deity associated with sericulture, believed to protect silkworms and ensure a good harvest.
The custom of enshrining the silkworm deity remains among sericulture farmers.
Compound of 蚕 (ko, 'silkworm') and 玉 (tama, 'jewel' or 'spirit'), referring to a deified spirit of silkworms. The reading こだま is a rendaku form of こたま.