SHINTO

History of Shinto

Shinto is an ancient Japanese religion. Its name was derived from the Chinese "shin tao" (The Way of the Gods) in the 8th Century CE. At that time:

Members of the Yamoto tribe became the ceremonial leaders in Japan.
Divine origins were ascribed to the imperial family.
Shinto became the official religion of Japan

A separation of Japanese religion and politics did not occur until just after World War II.

Shinto Beliefs and Practices

Shinto does not have a fully developed theology
Morality is based upon that which is of benefit to the group
Ancestors are revered and worshipped
Ceremonies, which include offerings and prayers, are directed to the Kami (nature deities)
Shinto recognizes many sacred places: mountains, springs, etc
Members are expected to visit Shinto shrines at various life passages

Shinto Texts

Many texts are valued in the Shinto religion:

The Rokkokushi (Six National Histories) from the 8th century
The Shoku Nihongi (Continuing Chronicles of Japan) also from the 8th century
The Jinno Shotiki (a study of Shinto and Japanese politics and history) was written in the 14th century

Divisions among Shinto

Approximately 100 years ago, Shinto was divided into:

Kyoha (Sectarian Shinto)
Jinja (Shrine Shinto); this is the most common form of Shinto.
The Canadian Census (1991) recorded 445 followers of Shinto.

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