It is the basis for Japanese society’s emphasis on harmony and the cooperative utilization of individual strengths. Historian Tsuda Sokichi deduced from early Japanese literature that Shintoism grew from indigenous customs passed down in Japan such as superstitions, the activity and teachings of the kami, the moral or political norm of the kami and Shintos sectarian splintering in new religions. This is mentioned in records from the 8th Century which tell the story of the Divine Age before written history began. 'Kami' means 'spirit' or 'superior' in Japanese and refers to all spiritual entities worshipped in the Shinto religion. Each kami plays its own role in the ordering of the world, and, when faced with a problem, the kami gather to discuss the issue in order to solve it. Shinto observes no one single, omnipotent Creator. Through ceremonies, called matsuri, they appease the kami and It is to the kami that the Japanese turn to pacify this sometimes calm but at times raging aspect of nature. Even the smallest animals can bring harm - the mouse that eats our grain and carries disease, and the locust that devastates our crops. The blossom-scented wind, a harbinger of spring, can become a wild storm. The oceans, where life first appeared, may suddenly rise, sending violent tidal waves onto the land, causing much destruction and grief. The sun, which gives life to all living things, sometimes patches the earth, causing drought and famine. Nature’s severity does not take human comfort and convenience into consideration. The sun goddess Amaterasu mikami and other creator spirits, illustrious. The term kami is often translated as god, lord, or deity, but it also includes other forces of nature, both good and evil, which, because of their superiority or divinity, become objects of reverence and respect. Individuals who have made a great contribution to the state or society may also be enshrined and revered as kami. kami, plural kami, object of worship in Shint and other indigenous religions of Japan. Kami derived from nature - such as the kami of rain, the kami of wind, the kami of the mountains, the kami of the sea, and the kami of thunder - have a deep relationship with our lives and a profound influence over our activities. Since ancient times, Japanese have expressed the divine energy or life-force of the natural world as kami. The “Soul of Japan” series provides an introduction to Shinto and Ise Jingu. Therefore, JAPAN Forward and Jinja Honcho have collaborated to bring readers an explanation of the key concepts of kami, matsuri, shrines, myths, and many other traditions and beliefs which form the core of Japanese culture. Many of Japan’s traditions and ideas are unfamiliar to those outside of Japan.
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