Shinto

•The Religion of Japan

• Until WWII was the official religion of Japan (linked to divinity of Emperor)

• Start date not known• First called Shinto when

Buddhism arrived, and people compared the differences

• No founder, scripture, or laws; loosely organized priesthood

Many Deities• Each village or clan

worshipped any number of gods

• Shinto means “way of the gods”

Worship of Kami or Spirits

• Kami are local spirits; some represent particular physical objects (ex. Odd rock or beautiful tree)

– Amaterasu = Sun Goddess who gave birth to the imperial family, hence “Land of the Rising Sun”

– Torii: Symbols of Shinto

Yamato Emperors

• Yamato Clan ruled, and were the first emperors

• Claimed to be descended from Amaterasu

Theology

• Not a fully developed theology• Animistic: belief in soul as being distinct from

bodies• Does not have a set moral code• Shinto Shrines• Coexist with Buddhism (many Japanese have

traditional Shinto wedding and Buddhist funeral)

Teachings

• The Four Affirmations– Tradition and the Family

– Strong Love of Nature – Small gardens and bonsai plants

– Physical Cleanliness (Japanese baths)

– Matsuri: Worship of the Kami (festivals, ceremonies…even sumo wrestling)