|
Shinto
Shinto is an ancient Japanese religion that is based on spiritual beings called kami. Shinto does not aim to explain existence; it focuses on enhancing human communication with kami through rituals. Shinto is an ethnic religion, which is almost exclusively found in Japan. Most people in Japan follow both Shinto and Buddhism. For followers of Shinto, Buddha is a kami.
History of Shinto
At around 500 BC, the tradition existed as a combination of nature worship, fertility rituals, and shamanism. In the 8th century, Shinto and Buddhism were considered the official religions in Japan. Religion was a big part of official state rule at the time. At the end of World War II, the religious and secular affairs of Japan separated because of regulations placed by the Allied forces. Religion was no longer connected to the Emperor’s rule. Despite this, Shinto was still popular in the country and some ritualistic elements can still be found in Imperial ceremonies today. Some historians believe that Shinto developed later in Japanese history and is not an ancient religion, but a modern one.
Shinto Beliefs
Kami are spirits or powers. Shinto does not have a God, scriptures, commandments, or a founder. It does have a priesthood, which does not, however, follow a rigid structure like priesthoods of other religions. According to Shinto, if a human being treats kami properly through worship and rituals, kami will respond by granting happiness, good health, and success. Followers of Shinto are very concerned with their local shrines. Many followers set up an altar in their homes. Since it is based on ritual and not on belief, many people do not consider Shinto a religion, but regard it as a way of life. Followers are allowed to believe in other religions, as well. Shinto does not believe in the idea of original sin; they consider humans as good beings and follow the code of Confucianism. Shinto creation stories are based on the experiences of the kami. According to Shinto, the kami are part of this world; a transcendental world does not exist. Shinto recognizes numerous natural sacred locations like mountains and springs, each connected to a kami.
Shinto Customs
Followers of Shinto often visit shrines and participate in festivals. This way, they share a close bond with the rest of their religious community. The most celebrated ritual is the New Year shrine visiting. Among people who believe in Shinto and Buddhism, weddings are usually performed by Shinto priests, while funerals are performed by Buddhist priests. Since Shinto emphasizes the importance of family and tradition, marriage and birth are very important for followers. Ceremonies at shrines are directed to the kami. They include offerings, dances, prayers, and cleansing. Cleansing includes washing hands and mouths in a wash basin. In the past, followers used to wash their entire bodies in a river. Shinto followers sometimes wear mamori charms to protect and help them. Nature is a very important part of the religion. Thus, celebrations mark spring planting, fall harvesting, and more. Special life passages require visits to the shrines. Shrines often display origami or paper of the spirits. by typesofhistory.com
Bookmark:
 Digg
 Facebook
 StumbleUpon
 Reddit
| 
