Shinto

Introduction

Shinto shĭn´tō [key], ancient native religion of Japan still practiced in a form modified by the influence of Buddhism and Confucianism. In its present form Shinto is characterized less by religious doctrine or belief than by the observance of popular festivals and traditional ceremonies and customs, many involving pilgrimages to shrines. Shinto, a term created to distinguish the indigenous religion from Buddhism, is the equivalent of the Japanese kami-no-michi, the way of the gods or the way of those above. The word kami, meaning above or superior, is the name used to designate a great host of supernatural beings or deities.

Sections in this article:

Introduction
History and Development
Modern Shinto
Bibliography

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Shinto

Introduction

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