shinto Flashcards
The Shinto Tradition:
The indigenous spirituality of Japan, centered on the worship of kami (spirits or deities) and reverence for nature.
Kami refers to spirits or deities in the Shinto tradition.
What are kami?
Spirits or sacred essences present in natural objects, phenomena, and ancestors
Kami can be found in various elements of nature and in revered ancestors.
Torii Gates:
Traditional Japanese gates that mark the transition from the secular to the sacred, typically found at the entrance of Shinto shrines.
Torii gates are typically found at the entrance of Shinto shrines.
What does the word ‘Shinto’ literally mean?
The way of the gods
‘Shinto’ comes from ‘shin’ meaning ‘god’ and ‘to’ meaning ‘way’.
How is human nature viewed in Shinto?
As inherently pure
Emphasis is placed on maintaining purity through ritual practices.
What is the primary method of ritual purification in Shinto?
Ritual purification (e.g., using water in misogi) is essential for maintaining harmony with the kami.
Ritual purification is essential for maintaining harmony with the kami.
Who is Amaterasu?
The sun goddess and one of the central deities in Shinto. revered as an ancestor of the Japanese imperial family.
Amaterasu is revered as an ancestor of the Japanese imperial family.
What is the Kojiki?
sacred text. An ancient chronicle of Japanese myths, history, and genealogies
The Kojiki informs Shinto beliefs and practices.
How does Shinto coexist with other religions in Japan?
It coexists with Buddhism and has been influenced by Confucian ethics
Together, these traditions shape Japanese moral codes and cultural practices.
