Shinto
way of the Kami
Kami
Divine beings that can interact with humans, the world, and other Kami
Kojiki
Record of Ancient Matters
Nihon Shoki
Continuing chronicles of Japan
Creation of Japan
Kami couple, Izanami and Izanagi stood from heaven and stirred the ocean with a magical spear. When they lifted the spear, the drops built the Japanes Islands and the couple gave birth to everything in the world including other Kami.
3 types of Kami
1) Natural objects
2)Forces of nature
3)Important ancestors
Why do Shinto followers worship Kami
Since Kami can influence events, it is important that Shinto followers worship them so that they remain friendly towards humans
Shinto’s key value
Shinto followers are concerned with the purity of character
How to remain pure in Shinto
Shinto encourages people not to be egotistical but rather sincere, loyal and have good moods and motivators. However, if you ever lose your purity you can periodically cleanse yourself through specific rituals
Tori gates
Sacred gates that mark the entrance of the Shrine. By entering a Tori Gate, you are entering the Kami’s presence in the shrine
Shimenawa
Rope of fresh reeds to mark the borders of the shrine and are kept fresh to maintain purity
Temizuya
Stone basin to purify worshipper’s hands before approaching the Kami in a shrine
Honden
A raised cabinet which stores representations of Kami in a Shinto shrine
3 Treasures
Sword, mirror, Jewel
