Author: Abu Ayesha
Shinto Religion (part 25)
The Status of Temples in Shinto
One of the most important places of worship in Shinto are the temples and shrines. People’s connection with these places’ dates back to ancient times. Shinto shrines and temples have a long history, and people have been visiting them from that time until now, offering vows and gifts to the kami (divine spirits). The prestige of Shinto shrines depends on the kami enshrined there. If a kami has superiority or high status among the people, the shrine is also honored and respected. The importance of temples is not limited to the past; even today, people pay attention to these places, and temples play a significant role in their lives.
“Shinto temples today play a significant role in supporting social affairs, welfare, and charitable associations in the areas where they exist, which strengthens the belief and faith in the kami” [1].
Shinto Shrines and Temples
Shrines, which are the sanctuaries of Shinto deities, are the main material elements of Shinto and its culture. There are approximately 80,000 Shinto shrines, large and small, throughout Japan, many of which have great historical importance. Shintō followers believe that the spirits of the deities inhabit sacred objects kept in the shrines. The sanctity of a shrine depends on the natural holiness of the location or the sacred ceremonies that were historically held there [2].
Shintō temples, known as jinja, are sacred places where kami are worshiped. These temples are usually built in natural environments and often feature red gates (torii) symbolizing the entrance to a sacred space. At these temples, people honor the kami by offering food, drinks, and other gifts, seeking blessings, protection, or good fortune from them [3].
During the mid-seventeenth century, under the support of Emperor Tenmu (673–686) and Empress Jitō (686–697), Shintō temples gained higher status. The emperor provided imperial patronage to major temples, and in 674 personally visited Ise Shrine, regarded as his ancestral shrine [4].
The Reason for the Abundance of Shinto Temples
An important point regarding Shinto temples is that, just as there are many kami (“gods”), their temples are similarly numerous and widespread. Some temples also serve as mausoleums or burial sites for their kami. The significance of a shrine is ranked according to the kami enshrined within. Among the most revered is Ise Shrine.
Comparison between Shinto Temples and Mosques
From what has been discussed regarding mosques and Shinto shrines and temples, the status of each is clear. A brief comparison is as follows:
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Purpose of Worship: Mosques in Islam are built for the worship of Allah alone, by His command and the guidance of the Prophet (PBUH) No one is allowed to worship anyone other than Allah or engage in activities that violate the sanctity of the mosque. Therefore, no images of kings, leaders, or notable persons are installed inside mosques. In contrast, Shinto temples and shrines are built around the graves or resting places of the kami, who are worshiped and offered gifts, and statues of kami or gods are installed there. [4]
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Function and Activities: Due to the sanctity of mosques, Muslims are advised not to conduct worldly activities inside them. Mosques are dedicated to worship, prayer, religious education, community meetings for important matters such as jihad consultation, dawah, congregational prayers, Friday prayers, and some social affairs. Shintō temples, however, mainly host seasonal family ceremonies, festivals, and national celebrations, which differs from the primary purpose of the temple.[5]
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Spread and Accessibility: Mosques are widespread globally, providing Muslims with spiritual and educational benefits, peace of mind, and a place for supplication and devotion. Even in Japan, where Shintō has traditionally been dominant and influential, Islam is gaining ground. According to The Economist, Islam is currently the fastest-growing religion in Japan, and by 2021, over 110 mosques existed throughout the country [5]. Shinto temples, in contrast, are built in forests, natural sites, or open spaces for the kami, and their construction depends on the kami. In Islam, mosques are built exclusively for Allah:
“وأن المساجد لله فلا تدعوا مع الله أحدا” [6] Translation: “And the mosques are for Allah, so do not call upon anyone along with Allah.”
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Spiritual Merit: All virtues and rewards mentioned for mosques in the Qur’an and Hadith are not established for Shintō temples. While Shinto temples may bring their followers together, they cannot provide the same daily worship opportunities as mosques, whose prayers are consistent, universal, and accessible to all Muslims.
Continues…
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References:
[1] ʿAbdurabbah, Iman Badiʿ, Islam in Japan, undated, p. 12
[2] Analytical Society and Culture of Nations Website, article: “A Look at Shintō and Buddhism, Two Popular Religions in Japan,” 1400 AH
[3] Roshanāyī Magazine Website, group of authors, article: “The Story of Amaterasu, the Sun Goddess in Japanese Mythology,” 1403 AH
[4] Japan Culture, written by Hamideh Amirizadani, undated, p. 116
[5] Shafaqna Website, “Increase in the Number of Muslims and Mosques in Japan,” published 26/2/1404 AH
[6] Qur’an, Surah al-Jinn, 72:18
