The kami (heavenly spirits), play an important part in Shintoism. They are considered to represent a person's ancestors. They can visit the real world if they are honored through rituals and prayers. Moreover, they are thought to live in the afterlife and recycle spiritual energy at the time of death.
Shintoism, a form animism, is also known as Shintoism.
Shinto's important feature is animism. It is the belief that spirits exist in nature. Shintoist temples are often found in natural settings. Rituals are often performed in honour of these spirits. Like other forms of animism, Shintoism is rooted in nature, but it has added features that distinguish it from other types of animism.
It emphasizes the worship of the kami
Shintoism venerates the kami, or spirit-beings. These spirits are associated with nature, and they dislike impurity. These spirits favor honesty, uprightness and harmony. There are many types, some of which are earth- or heaven-related, and others that are human.
It emphasizes the importance of nature
Shinto stresses the importance nature and the energy of the spirit that flows through it. Its philosophy focuses on the belief in a world that is good and healthy, and that evil spirits enter the world to cause temptation. Wrong actions also prevent the flow or blessing of the kami. Two main texts that summarize the philosophy are the Kojiki (712 CE), and the Nihon-gi (77 CE), which both contain traditional myths and teachings.
It emphasizes Makoto -- sincerity from the heart
Makoto is the core belief in Shintoism. It means sincerity from the heart. This value isn’t a coded code of conduct. Instead, it is a feeling that inspires the entire way we approach life and the wider world. Makoto is at the heart of ethical thought. It encompasses everything from the most basic principles of morality to everyday actions. The concept of Makoto can be found in all religions.
Purification is the key word.
One of the most important aspects of Shintoism is purification. This is why new buildings get blessed before construction begins and new cars get blessed during assembly. Another common practice is the use of water to cleanse.
It is incompatible with Christianity
Shintoism & Christianity are not compatible, as they promote differing views of God. Christian doctrine teaches that God is the creator of all things and that He is also the loving father for all people. Shinto is a belief that all people are sinful and require salvation.