1. Shinto (shin tao), the way of the kami

2. Izanagi and Izanami Origin story Pollution and purification

3. Amaterasu, kami of the sun Susano-o, kami of the storm Entertaining the kami at shrines

4. Jimmu, Japan’s first emperor Descent of emperors (and Japanese in general) from kami

5. Kojiki (712) Nihon Shoki (720)

6. 6th c. Start of appearance of other religions in Japan, esp. Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism 1867-1912 Reign of Emperor Meiji. Shinto becomes linked to nationalism 1920s/1930s Shinto linked to Japanese imperial ambitions 1946 Disestablishment of Shinto, incl. idea that emperor is divine

7. Kami “Spirits?” Heavenly and Earthly kami How do humans react? Places, natural phenomena, animals, ancestors, guardians, heroes, ghosts

8. Kami Immanent, promoting life, growth, creativity, also suffering and destruction Some greater than others Driving force behind dynamic cosmic harmony

9. The human predicament Children of the kami Humans naturally good and pure The effects of misbehaviour/pollution Need for purification, like Izanagi, outer and inner, on communal and personal level

10. Worshipping the kami Offerings Music and dance Prayers of praise, thanks, petitions, vows Seeking return to purity Individual, family and communal rituals

11. KamidanaTorii Ablution pavilionWorship hall PriestsOracles