Bellwork: December 8th

1
Bellwork December 8th

1. This is a Japanese art form where objects are
   made by folding paper. The paper is never cut.
   What is this art form?
2. Why do you think they do not cut the paper?

2
Origami

• We are going to make an object that illustrates
  Japanese respect for nature.
• At the same time, it will help explain the
  Japanese religion of Shinto.

3
Shinto

• Textbook page 222
• Comp Book page 59
• Title Japanese Shinto Religion
• Shinto beliefs all plants, animals, people,
  rocks, rivers, waterfalls, have spirits.
• Kami the name of the nature spirits
• Japanese leaders would worship at holy places to
  please the spirits and protect Japan. (example
  Mongol attack story)
• Kamikaze
• Read page 226

4
Shinto and Origami

• Read the handout of Shinto practices.
• Why did we practice origami at the beginning of
  class?
• Why is nature so important in Japan?

5
Conclusion

• 1. Why is nature so important to the followers of
  Japanese Shinto?
• A. The ancient Japanese emperors of the past
  always respected nature.
• B. Followers of Shinto believe everything in
  nature has a spirit.
• C. The Mongols brought this belief to Japan.
• D. Nature is beautiful and must be protected.

6
Conclusion

• 2. How might a follower of Shinto in Japan
  interpret a tragic earthquake?
• The nature spirit (kami) must be angry with
  Japan.
• They should have been better prepared for nature
  is unpredictable.
• They would have expected it, since mans primary
  job is to protect himself from nature.
• They would expect the kami to give Japan a great
  harvest in return for the tragic earthquake.