Concept in Definition ABC

In Japan the most deeply rooted religion among the population It is Shintoism. In Japanese the word Shinto means "way of the gods." It is a polytheistic religion in which kamis or sacred spirits are worshiped. A kami can take the form of a river, an animal, a plant, or any other living being. In this sense, all phenomena in nature have a kami and human beings are considered to transform into some kami after death.

It is a religion without a creator and without sacred texts, and Shinto beliefs are fully compatible with other religious practices. In fact, many Japanese are Buddhist and Shinto at the same time. In this sense, the Shinto goddess Amaterasu is regarded as a cosmic Buddha.

There are two fundamental principles in this religion: harmony with nature and respect for all forms of life

The purpose of human existence is to get away from negative kamis, who would come to be like evil spirits.

The value of nature in the temples

The religious space is made up of both the buildings and the nature that surround them and therefore the sanctuaries are located in forests or mountains. The goal of this is to create a spiritual and sacred atmosphere. The

dimension Natural is so relevant that even trees are considered sacred and when they die they are still venerated.

Before entering a temple or shrine, the worshipers must wash their hands in a ritual. At the entrance of the temples there are some tablets of wood to make requests and there are also spaces dedicated to offerings.

The influence on Japanese culture

Just as Christianity has permeated Western culture and mentality, Shintoism is very present in the daily life of the Japanese. His legacy can be seen in the attitude respectful and obedient to the Japanese people.

Also, some national celebrations are inspired by Shintoism (the Hatsumode or New Year, some state rites, Japanese nationalism or the belief generalized that the family imperial descends from the ancient gods or kamis). On the other hand, the theater Japanese, calligraphy, women's clothing or wedding rituals are cultural elements associated with Shintoism.

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Topics in Shintoism