The Myths of Shintoism
Shintoism, or simply Shinto, is the indigenous spirituality of Japan.
Shinto Shrines (Jinja) are central to the practice of Shintoism.
Unlike many other religions, Shintoism lacks a sacred scripture or a formal founder.
Ancient Roots: Shintoism originated from the earliest beliefs of Japan's inhabitants, developing into its unique form with influences from nature worship and animism.
Shintoism’s origins are deeply connected to the natural environment of ancient Japan and reflect the animistic traditions and belief systems that developed among early communities.
Shintoism has its foundation in animism, the belief that spirits or deities, known as kami, inhabit all things—living and non-living.
Shintoism emerged within the context of early Japanese clans (uji), where local groups worshipped their own kami as guardian deities.
Shintoism features a rich body of myths that explain the origins of Japan, its people, and the kami (deities).