From Shinto's Importance To The Divine Age

Shinto is lived in accordance to the divine age. Followers spend their time trying to appreciate the natural beauty of the world while simultaneously maintaining balance with the kami. The divine age is what the whole basis of Shinto is based upon. Page 336 reads, “Then the sun goddess sent her grandson to rule Japan with the divine commission that the throne that his descendants would occupy would prosper forever. This divine commission is the basic foundation of all the principles of this world.” One seeking the true way must rely upon the oral transmissions of this age. This divine age placed rulers in Japan to govern the land for eternity. Izanagi and Izanami procreated Amaterasu, the sun goddess, and everything in existence. This story of divine age sest up the basis for leadership and religion in Japan for years. Page 315 reads, “Thereupon Princess Yamato visited various places, looking for the permanent settling place of the Sun Goddess, and finally reached the province of Ise. Amaterasu stated, “The province of Ise, whose divine wind blows, is washed by successive waves from Eternal Land. It is a secluded and beautiful place, and I wish to dwell here,” This further cemented Japan as the center of Shinto life, and made …show more content…
These practices cause followers to obtain kannagara, which is defined as harmony with kami and nature. Festivals are held constantly throughout the year. Page 321 reads, “The 2nd month: Early spring festival: Prayers for harvest are offered to 3,132 kami.” Another notable festival comes in month three. Page 322 reads, “The 3rd month: Prayers for freedom from sickness.” “The 9th month: The divine tasting of the new crop at the grand shrine of Ise.” The festival are finished in month eleven and twelve. “The 11th month: The festival of the new crop.” “The 12th month: Services for the