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World religions: Shinto

Most Shinto rituals are tied to

A) worshiping the kami.

B) the life-cycle of humans and the seasonal cycles of nature.

C) forgiveness of sins.

D) preparing for the afterlife.

User TccHtnn
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Final answer:

Shinto rituals predominantly revolve around worshipping the kami, the spirits of nature, and are less concerned with matters like sin and the afterlife. Shintoism forms a part of a religious syncretism in Japan, where both Shinto and Buddhist practices may be observed in different life events.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Shinto rituals are most closely associated with worshipping the kami, which are spirits that exist in various elements of the natural world such as plants, animals, and geographical features. Unlike some religious traditions that focus heavily on texts, Shintoism is characterized by a set of practices and beliefs that emphasize morality, sensibility, and proper conduct. In Shintoism, life-cycle and seasonal events are important, and there is an acknowledgement of the divine in the everyday. This affinity for nature has parallels in other indigenous and ethnic religions that also hold the natural world in high regard.

For a Shinto follower, a significant life event such as a wedding may be overseen by a Shinto priest, highlighting the religion's focus on celebrating life's milestones in harmony with natural and ancestral spirits. Contrarily, the funeral might be conducted by a Buddhist priest, showcasing the syncretic nature of religious practice in Japan, where Shintoism and Buddhism often coexist.

User Elder Geek
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C forgiveness of sins
User Neil Knight
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