Introduction
Understanding Shintō
*Shintō*, "way of the kami", means a tradition without a founder and without a single creed. *kami* can be linked to landscapes, phenomena, ancestors, characters or creative powers.
They do not correspond exactly to Western gods or to mere spirits of nature.
To be retained
Four essential principles
- *Shintō*, "way of the kami", refers to a tradition without a founder and without a single creed.
- Local practices have long coexisted and merged with Buddhism.
- Water purification, offerings, inclination, handbeats and prayer prepare the meeting.
- shintō cultivates a purified and grateful relationship with the kami, the places and the community.
Small timeline
A tradition shaped by history
Origins and training
Local practices have long coexisted and merged with Buddhism.
Historical developments
From 1868, the Meiji State officially separated Kami and Buddhas and organized a state shintō around the emperor.
Ritual life and teachings
Water purification, offerings, inclination, handbeats and prayer prepare the meeting.
A living and plural tradition
After 1945, this system was dismantled; the shrines are today distinct religious institutions, while many Japanese participate in rites without claiming an exclusive identity.
History and development
Local practices have long coexisted and merged with Buddhism. From 1868, the Meiji State officially separated Kami and Buddhas and organized a state Shintō around the emperor.
After 1945, this system was dismantled; the shrines are today distinct religious institutions, while many Japanese participate in rites without claiming an exclusive identity.
Worldview, beliefs and practices
Water purification, offering, inclination, handbeat and prayer prepare the meeting. The "matsuri" renew the link between kami and community by processions, music and meals.
*shintai* objects are used as a support for the presence of a kami and often remain hidden.
Texts, symbols and transmission
Kojiki, Nihon shoki, norito or liturgical prayers. Symbols: torii, mirror, rope *shimenawa*, branches *sakaki*, sun d'Amaterasu.
The mirror, sword and jewel form imperial insignia.
What research can and cannot say
The idea of a unchanging Shintō since prehistory was partly built in modern times. History shows constant exchanges with Buddhism, Taoism and continental traditions.
References