What is Shinto? An Overview of Ancient Japanese Mythology

Shinto began in ancient times as a shamanistic practice of nature worship much like the early druids. As outside cultural and spiritual influences came to Japan, what started as a loosely formed nature cult grew into a religion that has acquired many followers and greatly impacted world culture.

Shintoism is a religion that is strongly connected to teachings of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. Shinto belief borrows much from the teachings of these sister religions, but still it remains unique in its structure. Without great study of Shintoism, one could easily see the influence from Buddhist and Toaist temples by looking at a Shinto shrine. In Japan it is common to see statues of Koma-inu placed outside of Shinto shrines. Koma-inu are guardians against evil that strongly resemble the Chinese guardian lions found outside Buddhist temples. To further show the importance of Chinese Taoism in the inspiration for Shinto beliefs, the word Shinto adopts the Chinese word Tao which translates as the way or path. Shin-Tao means the way of the gods.

When looking at the Shinto faith, it's important to understand that while it is called the way of the gods, it is a vastly different concept than Western teachings of and understandings of 'god.' Where many religions argue the supremacy of their gods and the notion of obedience to a supreme being, Shintoism focuses more on respect, peace, and harmony. Western religion presents a deity to be worshipped, while Shinto supports the belief in, and honor of a spiritual life force in all things.

The word Kami is used to describe the spiritual entities and life forces found in nature. The concept of Kami is similar to that of the Tao as it represents a spiritual element in the universe and a fundamental foundation of natural existence. Kami essentially means spirit, and it is believed that Kami take forms of natural objects and elements. In Shinto, every tree, mountain, river, gust of wind, and flash of lightening is said to be manifestation of sacred kami. Additionally, when a person dies, they are said to become kami and are honored in ceremonies of ancestor worship.

Shinto is unique in that it does not have the strict structures of other religions. In fact, shintoism does not even have a designated originator or a holy scripture. There are old texts on Shinto belief and practice such as the Kojiki, however, there is no original document at the center of the faith. This differs greatly from Western religions with their bible, and Taoism with its Tao Te Ching. Furthermore, Shinto does not place special importance on any one historical individual; no Lao Tzu, no Jesus, no Buddha. Instead of focusing on a central mythical character or story, Shinto offers a view of spiritualism and mysticism within the structure of nature. It is this mysticism and mystery that makes Shintoism a truly fascinating religion.