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The 5 Religions/Ideologies of Japan

by BBelew57 on May 28th, 2007

Buddhism and Confucianism have a very strong influence on Japan. Whether they are a religion or an ideology is beyond the scope of this simple post.

That the teachings of Buddha and Confucius have had an influence on Japan is undeniable.

Buddhism is Japan's guide through life and death. Confucianism places value on family first and expands from there. It explains why there is such an ingrained love for the elderly in Asian homes.

Japan also has its own religion - Shintoism. It is evident by the house gods that can be found in almost every home in Japan and at many countries.

Need help…face the kamidana (god on a shelf). Kamidanas get covered up when there is a funeral held at home.

Chritianity has almost no impact on Japan though at various times of the year the Japanese will call themselves Christian. What they mean to say is they are acting like what they think a Christian acts like at Christmas or Easter.

The most powerful ideology or mindset now is materialism. The happiness of the individual has taken over serving the state and one's family first. Now it's me, me, me.

There are 200+ million believers in Japan…but the population is only 127 million. The Japanese see no conflict of interest to claim one or more religion or way of thinking.

This cameleon approach to what some (think Christians) think are the most important thoughts (matter of eternity) of all baffles many.

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POSTED IN: All about Japan