A discussion of the contemporary practice of Shintoism in Japan and around the world, including its relationship with politics and society.
Origins and history of Shintoism: Understanding the roots of this indigenous religion in Japan and its development over time.
Shintoism beliefs and principles: Exploring the tenets of faith in Shintoism, such as animism, ancestor worship, and purification.
Shintoism rituals and practices: Learning about various Shinto ceremonies and observances, such as matsuri festivals, shrine visits, and purification rites.
Shintoism deities and spirits: Understanding the role of kami (gods, goddesses, and spirits) in the Shinto pantheon and their interaction with humans.
Shintoism symbolism and iconography: Examining the use of symbols, emblems, and sacred objects in Shintoism, such as torii gates and shimenawa ropes.
Shintoism in contemporary Japan: Exploring the role of Shintoism in modern-day Japan and its influence on Japanese culture and society.
Shintoism and politics: Examining the relationship between Shintoism and the Japanese government, as well as controversies surrounding Shinto nationalism and militarism.
Shintoism and ecology: Considering Shintoism's ecological perspectives and its emphasis on coexistence with nature.
Shintoism and interfaith dialogue: Exploring how Shintoism interacts with other religions and faiths, both within Japan and internationally.
Shintoism outside of Japan: Learning about the spread of Shintoism to other parts of the world and its adaptation to diverse cultural contexts.
Shrine Shinto: This is the most common type of Shinto in Japan, which involves the veneration of deities and spirits at local shrines.
Sect Shinto: These are the various sects or denominations within Shintoism, which often have their own unique practices, beliefs, and rituals. Some examples include Tenrikyo, Konko-kyo, Shinshu Kyoha, and others.
Folk Shinto: This refers to the diverse and syncretic practices of Shintoism that are rooted in local, rural, or popular traditions, such as ancestor worship, animism, and festivals.
Imperial Shinto: This type of Shinto was closely associated with the Japanese imperial family and the state, especially during the Meiji era when Shinto was used as a tool of nationalism and imperialism.
New Shinto: This term refers to the modern or contemporary forms of Shintoism that emerged in the 20th century, which sought to adapt or synthesize Shinto with other religions, philosophies, or social movements, such as Omoto-kyo, Aum Shinrikyo, Rissho Kosei-kai, and others.
Yoshida Shinto: This is a distinct school of Shinto that emphasizes the study and interpretation of ancient Japanese texts and rituals, known as Norito and Kojiki, as well as the performance of "secret" or esoteric practices.
Koshinto: This is a revivalist movement that seeks to restore the original or pure form of Shinto, without the influence of Buddhism or Confucianism, and to promote environmental and spiritual values.
Jinja Shinto: This is a type of Shinto that focuses on the management and administration of local shrines, such as the Jinja Honcho organization, which oversees thousands of shrines in Japan.
Sanno Ichijitsu Shinto: This is a syncretic form of Shinto that combines elements of Buddhism and Confucianism, and emphasizes the unity of the three religions under the motto "mountain, sea, and kami".