Basics of Shinto
What country is Shintoism indigenous to?
Japan
Who are the divine siblings in the Shinto creation story?
Izanagi and Izanami
What are the two main Shinto sacred texts?
Kojiki and Nihon Shoki
What do followers do before entering a Shinto shrine?
Purify hands and mouth
What symbol marks the entrance to sacred Shinto spaces?
A Torii gate
What spirit or divine presence is central to Shinto beliefs?
Kami
Which Kami is the Sun spirit and ancestor of Japan's emperors?
Amaterasu
What do Shinto texts teach about nature?
Nature is sacred and filled with Kami
What festival celebrates children ages 3,5 and 7?
Shichi-Go-San
What sacred rope marks purified spaces in Shinto?
Shimenawa
What type of religion is Shinto (polytheistic, monotheistic, etc.)?
Polytheistic and animistic
According to the Shinto myth, who is considered Japan's first emperor?
Emperor Jimmu
WHat Shinto moral value means sincerity and honesty?
Makoto
What is the newborn shrine-blessing ceremony called?
Miyamairi
What ritual tool uses sound to call or attract Kami?
Kagura-suzu (sacred bells)
Approximately how many people practice Shinto around the world?
Between 4 million and 104 million (est. 2025)
What is the name of the text is created in 712 CE containing Japan's myths and origins?
Kojiki
What is the concept that separates purity from impurity in Shinto?
Kiyomi (purity) vs. Kegare (impurity)
What event marks adulthood at age 20?
Seijin Shiki (Coming-of-Age)
Name one value shared by Shinto and Christianity.
Respect for nature/moral living/community
What early culture practiced the rituals that evolved into Shinto (3rd-2nd century BCE)?
The Yayoi culture
What object did Izanagi and Izanami use to stir the ocean and create the first island?
A jeweled spear
How do daily purification rituals like harae and misogi shape morality?
They encourage mindfulness, respect, and sincere ethical behaviour
What ritual continues after funerals to honor ancestors?
What Interreligious activity involves both Shinto and Christian leaders coming together after disasters?
Peace or prayer events for healing and recovery.