NobleChatter - Shinto FAQs

Religions & Spiritual Traditions Shinto FAQs

Shinto

What is Shinto and how did it originate?

Shinto

Who or what are the kami in Shinto belief?

Shinto

How do Shinto shrines differ from Buddhist temples?

Shinto

What is the purpose of purification rituals (harae) in Shinto?

Shinto

How are offerings made to the kami?

Shinto

What roles do priests (kannushi) and shrine maidens (miko) play?

Shinto

What is the significance of the torii gate at shrine entrances?

Shinto

What are the major Shinto festivals (matsuri) and their meanings?

Shinto

How does Shinto view the relationship between humans and nature?

Shinto

What are the Shinto creation myths involving Izanagi and Izanami?

Shinto

How does one practice Shinto at home with a kamidana (household altar)?

Shinto

What texts or writings form the basis of Shinto teachings?

Shinto

How has Shinto influenced traditional Japanese arts and culture?

Shinto

In what ways do Shinto and Buddhism coexist in Japan?

Shinto

What is the Shinto perspective on death and the afterlife?

Shinto

How have Shinto practices evolved in modern Japanese society?

Shinto

What role do sacred objects (shintai) play in worship?

Shinto

How does Shinto address environmental conservation and natural harmony?

Shinto

What is the significance of sacred dance (kagura) and music in rituals?

Shinto

How does one become a Shinto priest or shrine official?

Shinto