What are Shintoism beliefs?
In comparison and recognition, Shintoism is encompasses similar beliefs to that of buddhism and hinduism. They have no set doctrine of beliefs to follow nor abide by, but many customary teachings that have been passed down through generations can help us to understand the nature of their theories. Shinto beliefs are not a part of a creed or systems or theologies, but are instead sculptured around the sensibilities that underline their entire approach to the world. Instead of the Christian Ten Commandments, Shintoism contains a said Four Affirmations:
Another element of belief throughout Shintoism is the notion of Makoto. Makoto means ‘sincerity’ and is the overall basis of the religion. It is not rules or codes, but simply emphasises the heart- and the sincerity within a good heart. Because of this belief in Makoto, naturally all ethics and morals will become of great measure and be united with the many other main religions of the world. This concept of Makoto is important to the core beliefs of Shintoism. It is the understanding that even with all the rules, regulations, commandments and orders consuming other religions, if goodness and sincerity is not in your heart, all of those acts are pointless.
Shintoism is known to not believe in life after death, just the celebration of what we know and have right now. However, they do see that once a person dies, they’re now considered ancestral Kami. This is why many Shinto followers turn to Buddhism for a buddhist funeral
service after the passing of a loved one. Shintoism doesn’t acknowledge death as a start, but rather as an ending of what should be a good life.
The belief in the importance and beauty of nature is also integral to the comprehension of the structure of Shintoism. Considerign that all Kami is present and is the cause of all existence, it is only understandable that within nature lies Kami. This belief causes the Japanese people to shoe utmost care and love for all nature, and celebrate and appreciate all life within it, for example: the festival of the cherry blossoms.
The Beliefs of the Shinto Religion are complimented by the Shrines.
The shrines are an important element to the Kami of the Shinto religion and are many over 100 000 active shrines in Japan today. They provide a home of celebration, devotion and praise, to give to the deities that provide them with the life they’re given or the life they wish to have. When entering a Shinto shrine, majority of buildings are constructed with a Torii (As seen in image above), which is an archway symbolising the difference between the human into the Kami world.
Torii is translated as ‘To pass through or enter’. They’re very much constructed in the same way throughout all shrines, and also some also have two guardian animals sitting either side.
Before entering a shrine, it is a customary practice to perform a simple purification process. You must wash your hands and mouth before entering; a sign of cleansing and renewal. Inside, traditional japanese architecture is showcased amongst most shrines, and the experience within the shrine is peaceful and independent. Most festivals and major events are celebrated at Japanese Shinto Shrines, as they’re elaborate colour and spectacular structure provides an alluring destination for all.
- Tradition and family “The main mechanism by which traditions are preserved” (1 http://www.jref.com/japan/culture/religion/shinto.shtml)
- Physical Cleanliness Must provide a clean physical appearance e.g purification
- Love of Nature Nature is a sacred element in this world. Kami are related to all nature, so worshipping and care of nature is essential.
- Matsuri The festivals where Kami are celebrated
Another element of belief throughout Shintoism is the notion of Makoto. Makoto means ‘sincerity’ and is the overall basis of the religion. It is not rules or codes, but simply emphasises the heart- and the sincerity within a good heart. Because of this belief in Makoto, naturally all ethics and morals will become of great measure and be united with the many other main religions of the world. This concept of Makoto is important to the core beliefs of Shintoism. It is the understanding that even with all the rules, regulations, commandments and orders consuming other religions, if goodness and sincerity is not in your heart, all of those acts are pointless.
Shintoism is known to not believe in life after death, just the celebration of what we know and have right now. However, they do see that once a person dies, they’re now considered ancestral Kami. This is why many Shinto followers turn to Buddhism for a buddhist funeral
service after the passing of a loved one. Shintoism doesn’t acknowledge death as a start, but rather as an ending of what should be a good life.
The belief in the importance and beauty of nature is also integral to the comprehension of the structure of Shintoism. Considerign that all Kami is present and is the cause of all existence, it is only understandable that within nature lies Kami. This belief causes the Japanese people to shoe utmost care and love for all nature, and celebrate and appreciate all life within it, for example: the festival of the cherry blossoms.
The Beliefs of the Shinto Religion are complimented by the Shrines.
The shrines are an important element to the Kami of the Shinto religion and are many over 100 000 active shrines in Japan today. They provide a home of celebration, devotion and praise, to give to the deities that provide them with the life they’re given or the life they wish to have. When entering a Shinto shrine, majority of buildings are constructed with a Torii (As seen in image above), which is an archway symbolising the difference between the human into the Kami world.
Torii is translated as ‘To pass through or enter’. They’re very much constructed in the same way throughout all shrines, and also some also have two guardian animals sitting either side.
Before entering a shrine, it is a customary practice to perform a simple purification process. You must wash your hands and mouth before entering; a sign of cleansing and renewal. Inside, traditional japanese architecture is showcased amongst most shrines, and the experience within the shrine is peaceful and independent. Most festivals and major events are celebrated at Japanese Shinto Shrines, as they’re elaborate colour and spectacular structure provides an alluring destination for all.