In the previous sections, we discussed many topics regarding the Shinto religion—how Shinto came into existence; that Shinto, the religion of the Japanese people, is a tradition found only in Japan and has no applicability elsewhere. It is a tradition thousands of years old, yet instead of its followers’ increasing day by day, they are gradually disappearing and abandoning it, preferring secularism and irreligion over their native faith.
We must not forget that for a long time, this tradition served as a tool for powerful rulers and emperors to bring the general public under their command and control. Throughout the research, we learned that Shinto, like some other religions, has no founder and no original scripture. The books that were later written in this tradition were authored by emperors and ruling elites of the time and mainly describe their own genealogies and histories. We also explored important issues such as what objects or beings are worshipped in this religion—for example, individuals or things of high status or those that people fear. These are considered kami, and we examined who they are and how many of them exist. We learned about Shinto shrines, the role they play, how people worship, which rituals they perform upon entering these shrines, and the nature of their worship. These topics were discussed in detail. In this research, an effort was made to present everything said or narrated about this tradition accurately and without alteration.
Muslims, upon reading these findings, should realize how much honor Allah the Almighty has granted them, for they bow only before the God who created the heavens and the earth—a being whose worship brings dignity and nobility. He is the One who is able to fulfill whatever a person asks of Him and who answers the supplication of His servants. Islam is a religion of mercy, compassion, and kindness. It is neither based on myths and superstitions nor does it contain ambiguity and confusion. Rather, all its rulings and teachings originate from the Book of the Lord of all worlds and the noble sayings of the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him), transmitted to us by truthful and trustworthy individuals—those unanimously acknowledged by fair-minded people for their honesty, integrity, steadfastness, and nobility (i.e., the noble Companions, may Allah be pleased with them all, and the great Followers, may Allah have mercy on them).
In Islam, there is no class distinction. Worshiping Allah the Almighty is equally required of all. Kings and the poor stand side by side in the mosque. The greatest commanders and leaders act as servants and well-wishers for their people and for all Muslims. In summary, Islam is the religion that brings happiness, success, and salvation in both worlds to its followers. A Muslim who adheres to the teachings of Islam is neither humiliated in this world nor faces hardship in the Hereafter.
This research attempted to analyze the position of Shinto through an investigative and analytical approach. By examining multiple sources, we presented a clear picture of Shinto, its origins, and the myths and superstitions narrated about it. Shinto came into being centuries before Christ and was long regarded as the most prominent and important religious tradition of the Japanese people. However, over time—and due to various influences—people gradually abandoned their faith and the beliefs they once held. Today, a Shinto practitioner sees no problem in spending part of the day performing Shinto rituals and another part practicing Buddhist rites, for religion, in their view, is nothing more than adherence to ancient customs, performing rituals, and bowing at shrine gates. With the arrival of other religions in Japan, the traditional forms of Shinto underwent transformation and decline, and people became increasingly indifferent toward it.
The primary goal of this research was to provide accurate information about the Shinto tradition, and by Allah’s grace, this goal has been achieved. We ask Allah the Almighty to grant us a deep understanding of our noble religion, Islam, to keep us steadfast upon this eternal and flawless faith, and to honor us through it. And that is not difficult for Allah, the Mighty.
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