SHINTOISM

ORIGIN

• Shintoism became a distinct religion in response to the arrival of Buddhism in Japan around 550 BC.
• Not until the late 12th century has the word "Shinto" been used to describe a distinct body of religious teachings.
• The origin of the word "Shinto" means"way of the kami".
• There is no known single founder, nor sacred scriptures.

BELIEFS

• Shinto beliefs focus on the existence and power of the kami (gods or spirits) that exist in the world, in nature, especially throughout Japan.
• Shintoism beliefs are not centered on official creeds or systems of theology, but instead the correct approach to life and the world.

SHINTO WEDDING

• A Shinto wedding is a small-scale affair involving the couple, their family and their close friends. The bride normally wears a white kimono with a white scarf. The color symbolizes purity.
• Ceremony begins with a ritual purification.
• Next, prayers are said for good luck, and protection for the kami.
• The ceremony ends with an offering of tamagushi (a sacred branch) and a ritual sharing of sake.

KAMI

• While Shinto has no founder and no religious writings, the Kojiki (the Ancient Chronicles of Japan), written in 712 CE, and the Nihonshoki (Chronicles of Japan), written in 720 CE, contain the earliest record of Japanese creation myths.
• The Kojiki also includes descriptions of different Kami.
• Kami have two minds. One being caring and thoughtful, the other can show destruction when provoked.
• Kami can not be seen my human eyes.

KAMI (CONTINUED)

• They are usually found in sacred areas, or where people need their blessing.
• There can be different varieties of Kami. There are 300 different Kami, each with different functions.
• All kami have a role to serve for the people.

TYPES OF SHINTO KAMI

• Kami don't live in another universe, they live as human beings in the nature.
• Amaterasu- sun goddess
• Benten-music/art god
• Susanoo- God of wind

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