1. New Entry: Animism and ShintoAnimism and Shinto

2. Where are these most commonly practiced?

By the end of class are objectives are to: - describe the origins, beliefs, and

development of Animism [Shinto] - categorize information about Animism

[Shinto] using our belief system model as a guide

EQ: Explain how Animism [Shinto] fits our model for a belief system.

Any Ideas?Any Ideas?

Any ideas?Any ideas?

Animism:• from Latin anima - "soul, life" • Belief that non-human entities have souls

– Animals and plants – Objects such as rocks– Offerings to gain favors– Worshipped

• Spirits play an important role in regulating daily life

• Spirits can take the form of souls of their dead ancestors

• Present in many primitive societies and developing civilizations

• Connections to many other belief systems• No exclusive symbols (the spirit house is a

common element)

Shinto:

• “Way of the Gods”

• Japan’s earliest religion

• No complex rituals or philosophy

• Based on respect for nature and ancestor worship

• Believe in kami – divine spirits that live in nature

• Any unusual or beautiful tree, rock, waterfall, or mountain is considered home to kami

Amaterasu Omikami

The Sun goddess and one of the principal Shinto deities. Her name, Amaterasu, means literally "that which illuminates Heaven." She was born from the left eye of Izanagi as he purified himself in a river and went on to become the ruler of the Higher Celestial Plain.

Compare & ContrastCompare & ContrastAnimism or Shinto and ________Animism or Shinto and ________

Belief System

Region/Area

2 practices/philosophies

Impact/influence