cover image Shinto and the Religions of Japan

Shinto and the Religions of Japan

C. Scott Littleton. Oxford University Press, USA, $19.95 (116pp) ISBN 978-0-19-521886-2

This is an outstanding introduction to the Japanese religion Shinto (""spirit way""), exploring its syncretistic affinities with Buddhism, its modern status as the state religion and its emphasis on harmony with nature. Littleton first offers a quick but comprehensive history of Shinto over the past 2,000 years, stressing its evolution into an imperial cult in the late 19th century. Short chapters follow on kami (deities), sacred texts and persons, ethical principles, concepts of the afterlife and other topics. Throughout, full-color photographs of shrines, rituals, talismans and artwork complement the text, which is replete with interesting facts (e.g., that sumo wrestling derives from an ancient Shinto ritual). Readers will come away with a deeper appreciation of both Shinto and of Japanese culture. (May)