The kami (heavenly beings) are an integral part of Shintoism. They are considered to have the status of being a person’s ancestors. They can visit the living world when they are honoured with rituals and prayers. They are believed to be able to visit the afterlife and to recycle their spiritual energy when they die.
Shintoism can be described as animism.
Shinto is known for its important features such as animism (the belief in spirits in the natural world). Shintoist temples are often located in natural settings, and rituals are often performed in honor of these spirits. Shintoism is animism that is grounded in nature. However, it has some unique features.
It emphasizes worshipping the kami
Shintoism venerates the kami, or spirit-beings. These spirits are associated with nature, and they dislike impurity. They favor uprightness as well as honesty, sincerity, harmony, and sincerity. There are many kinds of kami. Many are associated with the earth and heaven, while some are human.
It emphasizes how important nature is
Shinto stresses the importance of nature, and the spiritual energy flowing through it. Its philosophy is based on the idea that the world and human beings are good and wholesome and that evil comes into the world from evil spirits, which reduce human resistance to temptation. Additionally, wrong actions are detrimental to the flow of existence and the blessings from the kami. This philosophy can be found in two main texts: the Kojiki (712 CE), as well as the Nihon-gi (780 CE), which contain traditional teachings and myths.
It emphasizes Makoto – sincerity in one's heart
Makoto, which is sincerity in one's heart, is the central belief of Shintoism. This value is not a code of conduct but a feeling of sincerity in the heart that underlies all aspects of life and the world. Makoto is the foundation of all ethical thinking, from the fundamental principles of morality through to the most everyday of daily actions. All cultures and religions share the idea of Makoto.
It emphasizes purification
Purification is one of the most important parts of Shintoism. This is why new buildings and cars are blessed prior to construction. Another common practice is the use of water to cleanse.
It is not compatible with Christianity
Shintoism as well as Christianity are incompatible, since they both promote different views on God. Christian doctrine holds that God is both the creator and the loving Father of all creation. Shinto says that people have fallen and require salvation.