12/18/2023 0 Comments Kami shinto definition![]() ![]() ![]() Over the centuries many of the ancient, local beliefs were formalized and nationalized by the ruling and priestly classes. Nature is its primary source of inspiration and it has incorporated a number of elements from Buddhism, Confucianism, Daoism, and Chinese divination (called onmyodo in Japanese), and from different parts of Asia. It is a belief system that developed over thousands of years at different locations within Japan, and is centered on local as opposed to universal beliefs.īeliefs and practice can differ according to local custom It has morality tales and myths that have been preserved in writings and influence its practices, but there is no doctrine such as the “Ten Commandments” that dictates the correct way to live as mandated by God. If there is one single, broad definition of Shinto, it would probably be “Shinto is a belief in kami.” Shinto is considered a “natural” as opposed to a revealed religion. (The extract below is accompanied by my own photos.) Well, as co-author I would say that, wouldn’t I… But I do stand in genuine admiration of what Joseph accomplished in the book, particularly in terms of a 50-page Introduction that is as objective and succinct as any account I’ve seen. In Shinto Shrines (University of Hawaii Press), Joseph Cali provides an admirably clear overview of the subject. So an obvious question is what exactly is or are kami? Indeed, the very name Shinto means ‘way of the kami’. ![]()
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