SHINTO

1
SHINTO

• Harmony and Clarity

2
History

• Indigenous nature-focused religion of Japan
• Earliest origins were prehistoric
• Formal institution of religion did not begin to
  middle of first millennium BCE

3
Basic Beliefs

• Nature worship
• Kami divine spirits (not gods) that are
  manifested and recognized in natural forces,
  objects and powerful individuals
• Emphasizes harmony of natural beauty and a clear
  appreciation of perceived reality

4
4 Main Affirmations (Beliefs)

• Family and Tradition
• Reverence toward nature
• Physical cleanliness
• Matsuri festivals held in honor of one or more
  kami

5
Way of Life

• Rituals are part of everyday life
• Some religious practices and rituals take place
  in shrines
• Shines are made out of all wood and are near
  sacred trees and following water

6
Differences from other religions

• No founder
• No main god
• Sun Goddess Amaterasu and emperor
• No real written scriptures
• No exclusive patterns of worship
• Many also practice Buddhism

7
Divine Power

• Natural events are manifestations of heavenly
  energy within Shinto
• Blessings of kami are sought after when trying to
  change the course of natural forces and events

8
Emphasis On

• NATURE
• Tradition
• Family
• Ritual
• Tranquility
• Cleanliness