Kami Belief and Ritual in the Shinto Tradition: Purification, Offerings, Prayer, and Matsuri

Authors : Samet Yaşkan

Pages : 333-353

Doi:10.37697/eskiyeni.1791454

View : 167 | Download : 989

Publication Date : 2025-12-31

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :The purpose of this article is to introduce the rituals associated with the belief in kami, which holds an important place in the Shinto tradition. While presenting Shinto rituals, their contextual relationship with kami is also discussed at various points. The study addresses the following questions: What are Shinto rituals? How can they be classified? How can Japanese celebrations and commemorations in which these rituals are performed be classified? How are the rituals practiced? What is the relationship between rituals and the sacred beings, the kami? In preparing the study, Japanese literature was reviewed, and the perspectives of Japanese scholars who grew up within Japanese culture were taken into consideration when examining the performance of the rituals. Although English sources were occasionally consulted, greater emphasis was placed on Japanese sources in order to convey the performance of Shinto rituals firsthand. The works of scholars in Turkey who study Japanese religions were also examined. It has been understood that worship in Shintoism is closely related to the geography where the Japanese live and the conditions brought about by their way of life. Since ancient times, the Japanese, who have been engaged in rice cultivation, developed beliefs associated with rice to ensure a more productive harvest and created religious practices related to these beliefs. In terms of methodology, the study followed a descriptive narrative method, applying apoche, one of the important approaches in the history of religions, and sought to present an objective-descriptive account. In explaining the relationship between rituals and kami, evaluations were made without departing from the sources. One of the most significant points known about Shintoism is that it represents a traditional and cultural structure. In this context, the understanding of worship in Shintoism is centered on kami, who are connected to ancestral spirits and natural phenomena. This article presents this aspect of Shintoism. Furthermore, it seeks to demonstrate that Shinto possesses a broader and more detailed ritual practice than is commonly assumed. It has been identified that natural phenomena are considered the most important elements of worship in Shintoism. In particular, water used in purification rituals, rice offered to kami in offerings, and tree branches have played a highly important role in Japanese religious rituals and practices. Through the rituals and practices described, this study attempts to objectively demonstrate the extent to which natural phenomena have influenced kami belief in the Japanese tradition.
Keywords : Dinler Tarihi, Şinto, Kami, Ritüel, Arınma, Sunu

ORIGINAL ARTICLE URL