Shintoism: How did the ancient religion shape Japan's culture?

When we talk about Japan, attention is bound to be drawn to Shintoism, a religion that has not only survived the ages but is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and everyday life. From traditional holidays to respect for nature, Shintoism's influence extends far beyond temples and shrines. But what makes this religion special and why has it remained important to this day? We'll delve into the world of Shintoism and explore how it has shaped, and continues to shape, the cultural face of Japan.

What is Shintoism?

Shintoism is a part of Japanese cultural heritage that cannot be ignored when it comes to world religions. Rooted in the daily lives of Japanese people, Shintoism remains a relevant and practised religion today. The very name ‘Shintoism’ hides its deep meaning: the word ‘shintō’ translates as ‘the way of the gods’. This spiritual path is a set of ancient beliefs, which over time formed into a full-fledged religious system.

Interestingly, Shintoism does not have a specific founder or exact date of origin, it is believed that its origins can be attributed to the end of the Jomon period, which covers the period from about 13,000 to 400 BC. It was during this time that the basic ideas and rituals that eventually became the foundation of this unique religion began to take shape.

Veneration of Kami

Shintoism places great importance on nature, viewing it as a divine manifestation that is admired by humans. This religion, based on polytheistic and animistic beliefs, honours a multitude of Kami - spirits and deities that reside in various natural objects and phenomena. In mountains, seas, forests, animals and plants, the Japanese see Kami with special powers. Moreover, even man-made objects such as mirrors, swords and daggers can become objects of worship if they are endowed with sacred meaning. Some people, such as ancestors and emperors, are also worshipped as deities.

There are over eight million Kami in the Japanese islands, and they are worshipped at a variety of shrines ranging from national and local to family shrines. Shrines are often located in places marked by natural beauty, such as mountains, forests, and coasts. Entrance to the shrine is through torii, a sacred gate painted red that symbolically separates the outside world from the sacred space within.

Among the many Kami, Amaterasu, the great sun goddess who is the central deity of the Shinto cosmogony, is particularly revered. Her shrine at Ise, east of Osaka, is the site of a national cult. According to myth, Amaterasu took refuge in a cave after a quarrel with her brother, Susanoo, the god of storms, plunging the world into darkness and depriving it of light and warmth. To lure her out, the other gods held a merry feast at the entrance to the cave and placed a mirror there. Hearing the merriment and seeing her reflection, Amaterasu was so intrigued that she looked outside, where she was immediately dragged into the light. Since then, after night always comes dawn.

Ritual festivals

Shintoism has no regular religious services apart from daily worship and pilgrimage. However, festivals occupy a special place in this religion. These events include a variety of rituals accompanied by dancing, music, songs, and lavish treats. In addition to seasonal celebrations, there are also festivals where the faithful gather at shrines to honour their kami on a particular day.

Some of these festivals become large-scale events that attract many people. For example, the Japanese New Year or the famous Gion Festival in Kyoto, when the people of the city parade through the streets on huge, lavishly decorated platforms, creating a colourful and memorable spectacle.

Shintoism and buddhism

Buddhism entered Japan from China in the 6th century and faced no resistance from Shintoism. On the contrary, the two religions coexist harmoniously and many Japanese follow both traditions simultaneously. Shintoism, perceived by its followers as a religion based on experience, custom and tradition rather than strict doctrine, merged easily with Buddhism. Kami, the spirits of Shintoism, became associated with local manifestations of Buddha and Bodhisattva.

Buddhist temples are often built next to or even within Shinto shrines, reflecting the close relationship between these beliefs. This interpenetration is especially evident at major Shinto festivals, where Buddhist monks take an active part. The link between Shintoism and Buddhism is particularly evident on Mount Fuji. This famous site, recognised by UNESCO as ‘Fujisan, a sacred place and a source of artistic inspiration’, has become a symbol of harmony between the two religions.

In the 12th century, Mount Fuji became a centre of learning for ascetic Buddhism, which combined elements of Buddhism and Shintoism. UNESCO describes this union as follows: ‘Reverence and reverence for the majestic shape of Mount Fuji and its volcanic activity have given rise to religious practices that unite Shintoism and Buddhism, man and nature, symbolic death and rebirth through ritual ascents and descents marked by trails, shrines and resting places at the foot of the mountain’. Today, Shintoism coexists peacefully in Japan with Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism, demonstrating a unique religious harmony.

Conclusion

Shintoism is the heart and soul of Japanese culture, which has shaped the nation's worldview and way of life for centuries. The influence of Shintoism goes beyond temples and rituals, penetrating into daily life, traditions and the Japanese people's attitude towards nature. This ancient faith, despite its centuries-old history, continues to be relevant today, influencing all aspects of Japanese culture.