I think the Japanese beliefs and practices around Shintoism and Buddhism are so beautiful. It shapes Japanese philosophy culture, design, traditions, etiquette and way of life.
Saying "shintoism is more like a custom" though is kinda like saying "christianity is a custom" because many christians don't actually believe that the sacrament turns into the blood and body of Christ or that Christ is even really God. At the end of the day, both shintoism and buddhism make really big claims about cosmology, and thinking you can define something simply as "a philosophy" is not very philosophical.
Taiji-san summed up what is probably the major difference between Shintoism and Buddhism in that one short sentence. Buddhism, no matter what the particular sect or denomination, usually has a very complex and sophisticated philosophy and metaphysics behind it. Shintoism, on the other hand, is mainly about ritual - rituals of consecration, purification and blessing - and that's about it. Buddhist sects in Japan can be broadly differentiated into those that are JIRIKI, believing in meditation and self help, and those that are TARIKI, believing in the help or saving grace of another, like a Bodhisattva, of which the Jodo or Pure Land sect of Buddhism is a good example. Zen, which literally means, "Meditation" is a good example of a Jiriki or self help sect of Buddhism.
In mainstream history Buddhism is believed to emerge in 500bc but as per indian itihasa tradition it is 1817bc. During that time there were 62 different philosophies which were emerged in india. And 9 of them survived today they are Vedanta, sankhya, mimansa, budh(budhism), Jina(Jainism), aajivika, charvaka, nyaya, yoga Rest all don't exist now because of most of them are proved wrong by the above philosophies and because of islamic invaders
@@ariyanghadei6462I heard that in India, the Islamic invaders killed around million of people what do you think about it? I don't know if that is also true or false I just heard that
I'm a Buddhist, descendent of the Shakya clan from which Buddha came from and that was a very precise description of Buddhism. It's not about worshiping a god to make them happy, it's about living a happy and peaceful life. As you said it's not a religion it's a philosophy or way of living
It still makes pretty large claims about the world and cosmos, and follows a form that most religions do, namely, it states that there is a problem in the world (suffering) and that the way out of this suffering is through enlightenment. And although the buddha said A way and not THE way, it's pretty clear that only the tathagata can solve the problem and that all god-worshippers are delusional and cling to the illusion of reality.
Very well explained. Although I am born and raised Catholic, I am more of a spiritual than a religious person respecting nature and her inhabitants. Thanks for this
Wow but remember Christianity isn't a Religion but a relationship❤ with Jesus. Jesus taught us to be a good example to others no matter who or what they worship. Even though our God JEHOVAH forbids us worshipping other gods, He also gave us the will to choose whether or not we want to spend eternity with Him in Heaven, because He is a just GOD and He respects our decisions. But if one truly loves Him, he or she must pick up their cross daily and live according to His Will. Only if he or she Truly Loves Him. God bless you all❤. Jesus loves you ❤❤❤❤ .
Therefore my friends, don't think a Christian is wrong or forcing you to accept his or her belief. Deep down they believe that you, as much as they do , deserve to enter Our God's heavenly Kingdom ✨. Please take Kindly to us Christians and try to understand us first❤. We love everyone as our Lord Jesus did❤, for it says He died for us all and not a few people, to be saved❤🙏.
@@TheRhetoricRoom Not when the first commandment is "Worship no other God but me " Respectfully from the Mosaic laws of The Bible. Shintoism is worshipping/respecting nature but Christians are urged to thank God who created nature🙏Shalom.
Thank you for this! When I first learned about Shintoism it was an epiphany and made sense of Japanese culture as a whole with it's strong sense of collectivism, simplicity, appreciating nature as it is, and how that gets reflected in the love of seasons, traditional wood working, love of hiking, all of it. I think what's most lovely to me (as a person from America where Christian extremism has been tearing us apart) is that Shintoism and Buddhism are completely focused on doing good NOW in the life you have, the life we KNOW we have, rather than speculating about afterlife and behaving good JUST to AVOID punishment. Really reflects the collectivism and individualism of societies. Thanks again Taiji and happy New Year!
Yes, both collectivism and individualism can go too far. Balance is key as with many things in life. On that token, being in the US myself, I'd also like to add that radical anti-religious/anti-spiritual attitudes are also tearing us apart. Really the problem is not one or the other, it's hyper-polarization, or as western propagandists would call it, "divide and conquer".
Imo christianity is a form of buddhism that does not focus on realizing the true nature of reality but living it somewhat decently. It is not eye opening but practical for morals of a simpleton. If you look at it this way, Jesus completely lost his ego on his mission to save people from suffering though he meant hell and not just pain of life. He took his substance that was his body, put it into the shape of his role and never bend from it like some bodhisattva that dedicated their entire life and power to ease the suffering of the masses at their own expense. Though modern christianity discourages questioning the scriptures and buddhism discourages not questioning everything in every possible way, in this regards they are somewhat opposites. One focuses on realization, the other passively prevents you from it. There are some buddhist flavours that got a torn in their backs when you dismiss that the knowledge has not been settled, but those are mostly caused by people who think they realized the reality while in fact being somewhat close it but still missing the core of it. Imo that is heresy. All we know is that we do not know much and whenever we think we reached the peak we can still ask many questions or turn out we were wrong and there is a purer and more true way to grasp that question - in a way as objective as possible. I honestly do not care how long i live or whatever happens after it. I cant care less. I dare say i realized it how it truly is, it cured me from depression in an instant no joke. Next day i was as fine as one can get knowing that there is no objectively justifiable reason to care about it all too much no matter how much i tried defending the idea. Really productive and cool, absolute peace, no stress in the worst situations and no crying when you lose no matter how much and how badly.
I'd say buddhism is more about escaping this life and the eternal cycle of Samsara. Buddhists make a very big claim on the afterlife, especially mahayana buddhists. Namely, that there is an afterlife and you go thtough heaven or hell but must ultimately be reborn in this cursed world of suffering. Also, the whole concept of kamma is punishment for your bad actions in previous lives. And really, to say that christians do things "just" to avoid punishments because the bible mentions punishments for sinners is kinda like saying everybody who lives in a society with a penal code is following the law JUST because they don't want to be punished by the law. By the way, buddhism is, I would argue, THE most self-centered religion in existence (excepting maybe mahayana) because the only person you are supposed tp save, or really can save, is yourself. The goal is enlightenment for yourself and not really for others. You don't fix the world because the goal is to escape it. That's the Theravada way at least. Not that buddhists are selfish, far from it.
What a great and informative vid. Thanks for you clear explanation and I wish more 'religions' would have the same wisdom of letting people be , as a basis... Love and Light at Christmas from Amsterdam, Holland 🙌🏽✨
@@taijiskitchen Hello, I have a question, what do you use to protect yourself against spells? In Latin America there are people who cast love spells. What would you do to protect the person who is being affected by that spell? In Latin America it has another name, but in Google translation it is like this
I’ve always been fascinated with Japanese culture. Food, music, art,martial arts, and religion. It’s clear their history is worth preserving and learning from.
Thank you so much Taiji san for the clear and fascinating explanation of "religion" in Japan. I wish for all peoples to live in peace and acceptance of differences. In the end, we have much more in common. All the best to you. Namaste.🙏
Thank you so much for this. It is very informative. I did not know (there is a lot I don't know LOL so please excuse me) about the mirror in the Shinto Temple. I absolutely love that and I am going to find a mirror for my meditation corner because although I go through what I could have done better every day, the idea of the mirror could bring an even stronger reminder. I really enjoy your videos BTW. Thank you again. You remind us of what is important in life IMHO.
Thank you so much for this video and in general for your channel. I visited Japan this year during Hanami. I loved it so much that I started cooking more japanese food and started to learn japanese. This country ,food, people, culture… it‘s so clean and averybody is so calm and polite… I want to visit again as soon as possible. I the meantime I can visit little Japan in Düsseldorf. Thank you very much and I hope you can you make a good combination videos about japanese culture and food. Many something about public transportation in Japan? Since almost everything is in japanese , it‘s not easy. 🙏
Thank you so very much, Taiji! Your videos are always so helpful. You are well informative and as you share you pas this gift along with us. You are a beautiful human being. Thank you for everything that you do. Please take care and stay well. Namaste'
Thank you, Taiji. Your messages and videos are the ones that I look forward to. There is something about you and the way that you present everything to us that is very meaningful. Thank you for all of your time and energy, Taiji. Namaste' Sean~
Loved this video. I have read some about Shintoism, but this was so beautifully explained i will definitely reference this video in the future. Thank you!
Thank you very much for explaining Japanese religion. I really admire, that you were able to develop into such a peaceful nation with so many spirits and respectfulness. Because at the end, it really does not matter what you believe in, just that you are respectful to others and nature. And this will bring peace of mind of individual and people.
Beautifully explained. Thank you! The Japanese will always have a place in my heart. I have much love and respect for them. The first years of my life was spent in Japan then later in Okanawa. I remember my Japanese baby setters, I cherish my memories.
Yes, I agree. His videos are very good 😊 I really hope that you one day are able to forfil your dream of visiting Japan 😀 It is a dream that I also have. And I love learning about the very interesting differances of japanese culture
Thank you for the explanation, it will help my journey to learn about Japanese culture. Your friendliness on this video reached the perfect vibe to learn what you shared. Again thank you.
Just watched this with my 7 year old who has been asking me about these, perfect timing! This was so helpful and gave us a lot of fantastic talking points. Thanks so much, I always love your videos :) Wishing you a great day!
12:53 I was very curious about your Manji symbol because we also had this symbol in the distant past in Iran, more than 7,000 years ago, and its name is spinning wheel or the wheel of Mitra (the goddess of Iranians in the past) and it is a sign of the sun and means “good life or good world” (almost).
Happy hollidays to everyone! 🎄🎉🎈 Thank you for this great video Taiji san 😀 You have such a great way of explaining things, so that they are easy to understand for those of us who perhaps not know so much about the topic of tge video. I think that I understand japanese religiouse/speritulism practises/vievs a lot better 😊
Each religion offers its own approach to spirituality and ways of life. The perception of calmness or intensity in a religion can vary greatly depending on personal experiences, interpretations, and cultural contexts.Christianity may be seen as having more structured beliefs and practices, it also emphasizes principles such as love, forgiveness, and peace.
Jesus was chill, he told a demon to leave in a calm manner. It the people these days that use that extra energy and while this is their way of doing things, other Christians see it as the only way. In reality, we Christians should always be a good example to others no matter who or what they worship. God does give us free will to choose whether to be with Him for eternity or not.
@@WordBearer-qq1tlbut you guys never forgive them who do not follow your religion and keep on trying to convert them by showing them fear of hell 😂😂😂😂😂
You did a fantastic job explaining the difference between Shinto and Buddhism. Thank you for elaborating on the culture and how the Japanese people perceive and understand their beliefs. I really enjoyed your in depth explanation of Shinto and its meanings, and how you explained that Buddhism more as philosophy.
Love Your style! PHENOMENAL! I always had a standing point that each man is a God to himself and this was a giant confirmation of my attitude towards religion in general and how people should perceive themselves.
I'm learning to be a interpreter and wanted to know how I should explain this. This is by far most accurate yet simple way of describing not only the difference of the two but how Japanese people practice these 'customs and philosophy'.
I am from Bihar India where Buddha got enlightenment, and whatever you said about Buddhism is so true. What we don't realise is that religion is a western concept. In reality , Buddhism and Hinduism are philosophies . Hinduism is a way of life even though today India is nowhere around what our ancient Indian philosophies taught us but in order to know about it we must read Buddha dhampatra and Vedas and upnishads
My japanese side of the family on my dad's side is buddhist, my mums side is Christian, but my mums side also has buddhist practitioners. So I guess I'm from a buddhist family.
I do the same! haha I always say: "I have no religion", and trying to learn more about japanese culture I saw this video and it accurately reflects my beliefs and way of life. My philosophy.of life... Interesting.... Either it is the natural and real path of the Self or in my previous incarnation it was in Japan. The more I study the culture, the more it reflects me. And that makes me feel inner peace. I Never fit into Western culture. because...in fact: I don't understand it. It's like living in a jungle. I hope I can fly to Japan one day! Arigato Gozaimasu for this video. Very clear and beatiful explained. Have a great day 🌸🤸 Matane 🙌
This was very well done and informative. If we ever get to Japan, visiting a Shinto shrine is on the list of things to see and as I understand photos from only the outside. To me many of them are architecturally stunning. I did know about washing one’s hands, but the clapping and bowing I was unaware of. Nice to know if we do visit to know what is the expected behavior. It’s like an upcoming trip to Europe and visiting their magnificent cathedrals.
1990. I was majoring in psychology but always remember my philopshy class that introduced me to philosophy . Today, I have more time to research and found Nishida kintaro and Nishita who 1930 studied under huseral and heigigger and knew Sartre . Today, I belong to Seicho no Gardena Ca. It’s based on Shinto, Buddhism and Christianity . I knew I found the right religion for me. I am lucky. I leaned to accept things and grow.. than you
Thank you for your excellent channel. Since I'd love to visit Japan, I'm learning Japanese and studying Japanese culture. An anthology I read says Japanese people speak ambiguously to protect their relationships and avoid offensive directness. If that's true, please tell us more about it because I'd hate to insult anyone.
Is there a correct or incorrect way to bow? How deep do you bow in different situations? Like for example, your bows before the 鳥居 and before praying. Also, compared to the temple, where you bowed less deeply. Maybe I'm just overthinking into it. (I hope these are the correct kanji (とりい))
There is a light bow and a deep bow, but unfortunately not all Japanese are able to do it correctly. It is easy to understand if you look for a video explaining bowing called Shin, Gyo, So in the Tea Ceremony.
Thank you, very informative. In stead of removing the holy Swastika sign, I think we should create awareness and teach people about it. The sign has a very special meaning for Hindu's and Buddhists. People should know it was stolen and misused by that piece of crap. Educate, don't erase!
It has always been a symbol of luck and the sun. Also among the Germanic tribes. If you look at the Germanic runes. And the similarity that the swastika has with the runes. No wonder it ended up on the flag of the NSDAP. Other runes were also used for their order badges and so on.
Thank you so much for this video. I found it very interesting and well explained. I don’t like any kind of religion cause no one of them teaches to respect others belives. I admire Japanese for the respect they have for everything (food for exemple). Can I ask you if and how do you learn to respect yourself? Thank you again 🙏🏻
If you are really ready to explore the fascinating world of Japanese religion and spirituality, one of the best authors you can read is Lafcadio Hearn, whose Japanese name is Koizumi Yakumo. His best known book is Kwaidan, which is a collection of spooky Japanese ghost stories, but he has a lot of other great books out as well. Lafcadio Hearn was an American writer of mixed Irish / Greek descent who went over to Japan to teach English in the Meiji era, and wound up totally falling in love with the country - even to the extent of marrying a Japanese woman from a noble samurai family and being adopted into that family. When I was in Japan, even my Japanese friends knew and respected the writings of Koizumi Yakumo, or Lafcadio Hearn, and said that he had great insight into the Japanese spirit and national character - the Japanese Kokoro.
Damn, this is very deep but beautiful. One can never guess the amount of culture behind a country on plain sight. I kind like more this approach to life and I feel it more according to my personal belifes. Also it's very crazy certain similarities between this an the mesoamerican philosophy and religion (I'm mexican) where gods are not the same concept. Teotl is often translated as god but for the ancient people and actual native people, these deities where the conscious manifestation of every aspect in life and the universe, not just being that control such things, as such Tlaloc is not a man that controls the rain, he is the rain itself, Quetzalcoatl is the wisfom and wind or Tezcatlipoca is the night, but well for the simplicity they call them gods 😅, and as such every aspect of nature was respected, caves are secred places where is said these being inhabit. Also the Buddhism philosophy about suffering is also similar, litetally aztec children were received at birth with a speech that ended with "you have come to suffer, suffer and persever" but was more of the belief that you have a role in the world and you must fullfill it (which also include paying respect to gods, honoring your family, respecting nature, making sacrifices and offerings, working and always looking for a way to help your community) and life is a constant cycle where suffering was common but with it and the fullfillment of said duty, also came happines and the prove of a well lived life, as the universe was made in duality, every aspect of the universe had a indivisible counterpart, and both couldn't exist without the other: Life and Death, Light and Darkness or Fire and Water. Even the god were dual as every aspect had a male and female part (which means a male god and female god) or some gods were opposites, like Quetzalcoatl and Tezcatlipoca, opposites, but one was not better than the other, and both were equally worshipped. as such things like good and evil was so simple, as a person has both parts like or not, so for them, it was more about balance, which is the way the universe works. Of course there were also sacrifices which not gonna lie, were horrible, but even blood offering was view as a way to thank the gods who sacrificed themselves so there could be life (still was very extreme but well). Sadly this ancient wisdom was almost destroyed and forbidden and persecuted and even today those who still keep it alive are look down upon, mocked or ashamed, but they still keep going with dignity. Japan's philosophy always fascinated me and I think is also because of the similarities between our ancesters beliefs rather thatn the catholic beliefs, which I have steadily lost faith and connection with, and I have opted for this kind of thinking, where suffering is constant but you must work to get on with life and fullfill your purpose, which is like I would also dig into buddhism more and learn about it, and also I hope I get to visit Japan one day.. Of course I don't say that outloud or else my mother is gonna smack my face 😂 Sorry for the long post, greetings and thanks for the education and can't wait for your next videos.
It's interesting that there's a kami of toilets! In Roman Paganism, there is Cloacina, the goddess of the great sewer of Rome. I've been noticing a few similarities between Shinto and Religio Romana! Both traditions have public temples and home altars, for example.
As a Spaniard our religion is probably one of the most destructive things that has ever happened to humanity (and it still is to this day). Catholicism has caused so much suffering around the world, so now as a young spanish person and an atheist it's very hard for me to imagine religion as a positive thing. Very interesting to see buddhism and specially shintoism are more focused on peace and nature. Thanks for this video!
and especially that it was defiantly not the intension of the Jesus of Nazareth. I do agree to some of the beliefs but it is very unfortunate that Christianity is used by the politicians so often and easily as a means to instigate the people to do harm on other folks/countries.
@@taijiskitchenYes, there is beauty and honesty in all *honest* spiritual traditions, but some "bad actors" twist them into cult-like mindsets for selfish gain at the expense of others. Hyper-polarization is really the problem we're watching manifest throughout history, not one particular "belief system" (BS, heh) or perspective. Thank you for your work :) After learning so much about Japanese culture and even studying the language itself (not to mention all of this starting from being exposed to Japanese art and media ever since I was a child) I feel called to at least visit Japan once at some point. Thanks again! (I just realized my two thanks here are sort of analogous to the practice of bowing twice at the Shinto shrine, haha!)
now..i had the answers with all my own questions about japans tragedy...like tsunami..earthquake...you belief in nature positivity..but you dont believed who done and gave this all nature living...i think that is the problem..
I read that when a person dies they go to Yomi , become venerated Kami by loved ones, or continue to help the living somehow . When i die i would go to yomi if im not venerated ? Is the belief of going to Yomi from a older type of Shinto? Do people still follow this? I'm thinking of practicing Shinto and will buy a Kamidana but no shrines here Will Kamidana be enough to practice? Thank you great video 🙏
It reminds me of the homage of my Afronative 🪶👑🥧 people. We respect our Creator of the Earth without religion being so heavily involved. Nature was here before religion.
Essentially, the Abrahamic God is not similar to kami. But essentially, Odin, Thor, and holy lakes like lake Baikal are kami. I think people misunderstand that we don't have concepts similar to kami in Japan. NeoPagans understand the concepts of Shinto very well. I think Asatru as a religion is very similar to Shinto.
In my opinion, Ameterasu Ōmikami would probably more be more like Hera who was queen of the Greek gods of Olympus. In addition, the Kami sound very similar to Manitou of Algonquin Native Americans or the Orishas of Yoruba religion. The latter being part of the belief systems of my ancestors.
yes there is. clapping is thought to purify the area, wiping away any bad thoughts and bad spirits. we also clap together at the end of a ceremony sometimes, called Ippon-Jime or Sanbon-Jime, depending on just one clapping or threetimes.
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I think the Japanese beliefs and practices around Shintoism and Buddhism are so beautiful. It shapes Japanese philosophy culture, design, traditions, etiquette and way of life.
I love the way you said,
" Shintoism is more like a custom or traditions " and " Buddhism is actually a philosophy " ❤️✨🌍
Saying "shintoism is more like a custom" though is kinda like saying "christianity is a custom" because many christians don't actually believe that the sacrament turns into the blood and body of Christ or that Christ is even really God. At the end of the day, both shintoism and buddhism make really big claims about cosmology, and thinking you can define something simply as "a philosophy" is not very philosophical.
Taiji-san summed up what is probably the major difference between Shintoism and Buddhism in that one short sentence. Buddhism, no matter what the particular sect or denomination, usually has a very complex and sophisticated philosophy and metaphysics behind it. Shintoism, on the other hand, is mainly about ritual - rituals of consecration, purification and blessing - and that's about it. Buddhist sects in Japan can be broadly differentiated into those that are JIRIKI, believing in meditation and self help, and those that are TARIKI, believing in the help or saving grace of another, like a Bodhisattva, of which the Jodo or Pure Land sect of Buddhism is a good example. Zen, which literally means, "Meditation" is a good example of a Jiriki or self help sect of Buddhism.
In mainstream history Buddhism is believed to emerge in 500bc but as per indian itihasa tradition it is 1817bc.
During that time there were 62 different philosophies which were emerged in india.
And 9 of them survived today they are
Vedanta, sankhya, mimansa, budh(budhism), Jina(Jainism), aajivika, charvaka, nyaya, yoga
Rest all don't exist now because of most of them are proved wrong by the above philosophies and because of islamic invaders
@@ariyanghadei6462I heard that in India, the Islamic invaders killed around million of people what do you think about it? I don't know if that is also true or false I just heard that
@@code-016unkown6You Are Absolutely Right Brother.These Islamist Literally Destroyed Our Buddhist Monasteries And Libraries.😢
I'm a Buddhist, descendent of the Shakya clan from which Buddha came from and that was a very precise description of Buddhism. It's not about worshiping a god to make them happy, it's about living a happy and peaceful life. As you said it's not a religion it's a philosophy or way of living
It still makes pretty large claims about the world and cosmos, and follows a form that most religions do, namely, it states that there is a problem in the world (suffering) and that the way out of this suffering is through enlightenment. And although the buddha said A way and not THE way, it's pretty clear that only the tathagata can solve the problem and that all god-worshippers are delusional and cling to the illusion of reality.
Very well explained. Although I am born and raised Catholic, I am more of a spiritual than a religious person respecting nature and her inhabitants. Thanks for this
thanx! glad you like the video!
Wow but remember Christianity isn't a Religion but a relationship❤ with Jesus. Jesus taught us to be a good example to others no matter who or what they worship. Even though our God JEHOVAH forbids us worshipping other gods, He also gave us the will to choose whether or not we want to spend eternity with Him in Heaven, because He is a just GOD and He respects our decisions. But if one truly loves Him, he or she must pick up their cross daily and live according to His Will. Only if he or she Truly Loves Him. God bless you all❤. Jesus loves you ❤❤❤❤ .
Therefore my friends, don't think a Christian is wrong or forcing you to accept his or her belief. Deep down they believe that you, as much as they do , deserve to enter Our God's heavenly Kingdom ✨. Please take Kindly to us Christians and try to understand us first❤. We love everyone as our Lord Jesus did❤, for it says He died for us all and not a few people, to be saved❤🙏.
You can be Catholic and practice Shinto as well :)
@@TheRhetoricRoom Not when the first commandment is "Worship no other God but me " Respectfully from the Mosaic laws of The Bible. Shintoism is worshipping/respecting nature but Christians are urged to thank God who created nature🙏Shalom.
Thank you for this! When I first learned about Shintoism it was an epiphany and made sense of Japanese culture as a whole with it's strong sense of collectivism, simplicity, appreciating nature as it is, and how that gets reflected in the love of seasons, traditional wood working, love of hiking, all of it. I think what's most lovely to me (as a person from America where Christian extremism has been tearing us apart) is that Shintoism and Buddhism are completely focused on doing good NOW in the life you have, the life we KNOW we have, rather than speculating about afterlife and behaving good JUST to AVOID punishment. Really reflects the collectivism and individualism of societies. Thanks again Taiji and happy New Year!
Lol. Lmao.
Yes, both collectivism and individualism can go too far. Balance is key as with many things in life. On that token, being in the US myself, I'd also like to add that radical anti-religious/anti-spiritual attitudes are also tearing us apart. Really the problem is not one or the other, it's hyper-polarization, or as western propagandists would call it, "divide and conquer".
Christian extremism in America?? I never heard about it.
Imo christianity is a form of buddhism that does not focus on realizing the true nature of reality but living it somewhat decently. It is not eye opening but practical for morals of a simpleton. If you look at it this way, Jesus completely lost his ego on his mission to save people from suffering though he meant hell and not just pain of life. He took his substance that was his body, put it into the shape of his role and never bend from it like some bodhisattva that dedicated their entire life and power to ease the suffering of the masses at their own expense. Though modern christianity discourages questioning the scriptures and buddhism discourages not questioning everything in every possible way, in this regards they are somewhat opposites. One focuses on realization, the other passively prevents you from it. There are some buddhist flavours that got a torn in their backs when you dismiss that the knowledge has not been settled, but those are mostly caused by people who think they realized the reality while in fact being somewhat close it but still missing the core of it. Imo that is heresy. All we know is that we do not know much and whenever we think we reached the peak we can still ask many questions or turn out we were wrong and there is a purer and more true way to grasp that question - in a way as objective as possible. I honestly do not care how long i live or whatever happens after it. I cant care less. I dare say i realized it how it truly is, it cured me from depression in an instant no joke. Next day i was as fine as one can get knowing that there is no objectively justifiable reason to care about it all too much no matter how much i tried defending the idea. Really productive and cool, absolute peace, no stress in the worst situations and no crying when you lose no matter how much and how badly.
I'd say buddhism is more about escaping this life and the eternal cycle of Samsara. Buddhists make a very big claim on the afterlife, especially mahayana buddhists. Namely, that there is an afterlife and you go thtough heaven or hell but must ultimately be reborn in this cursed world of suffering. Also, the whole concept of kamma is punishment for your bad actions in previous lives. And really, to say that christians do things "just" to avoid punishments because the bible mentions punishments for sinners is kinda like saying everybody who lives in a society with a penal code is following the law JUST because they don't want to be punished by the law.
By the way, buddhism is, I would argue, THE most self-centered religion in existence (excepting maybe mahayana) because the only person you are supposed tp save, or really can save, is yourself. The goal is enlightenment for yourself and not really for others. You don't fix the world because the goal is to escape it. That's the Theravada way at least. Not that buddhists are selfish, far from it.
I want to thank my dogs, Shintoism and Bhuddism, you have saved my life 🙏 i am on my journey now.
What a great and informative vid. Thanks for you clear explanation and I wish more 'religions' would have the same wisdom of letting people be , as a basis... Love and Light at Christmas from Amsterdam, Holland 🙌🏽✨
Glad you enjoyed it!
it helped me very much for my studies. This is a very good video about Japan.
Keep up the Spirit.
the explanation is so easy to understand. thank you..
glad you find it that way!
as a teacher, I must be, lol
@@taijiskitchen
Hello, I have a question, what do you use to protect yourself against spells? In Latin America there are people who cast love spells. What would you do to protect the person who is being affected by that spell? In Latin America it has another name, but in Google translation it is like this
Very well explained. Thank you
thank you for your comment!
I’ve always been fascinated with Japanese culture. Food, music, art,martial arts, and religion. It’s clear their history is worth preserving and learning from.
Namo Buddha.Namo Amitabha ☸️.Will Definitely Visit Japan And Will Learn More About Japanese Buddhism.Arigato Sensei.You Have Explained Really Well.♥️
Thank you so much Taiji san for the clear and fascinating explanation of "religion" in Japan. I wish for all peoples to live in peace and acceptance of differences. In the end, we have much more in common. All the best to you. Namaste.🙏
Absolutely fascinating. Thank you so much for your wonderful and clear explanation. Also thank you for your video.
Thank you Taiji san. Very informative.
This is very informative. Thank you! 👍🏻
you are welcome! enjoy!
Thank you for this highly informative video.
Glad it was helpful!
especially that this took me forever to make!!
Thank you, was very interesting and pleasant to watch ❤
You’re welcome 😊
Thank you so much for this. It is very informative. I did not know (there is a lot I don't know LOL so please excuse me) about the mirror in the Shinto Temple. I absolutely love that and I am going to find a mirror for my meditation corner because although I go through what I could have done better every day, the idea of the mirror could bring an even stronger reminder. I really enjoy your videos BTW. Thank you again. You remind us of what is important in life IMHO.
glad to hear, that you get some inspiration out of my video!
Very informative, thank you for the video!
Thank you so much for this video and in general for your channel. I visited Japan this year during Hanami. I loved it so much that I started cooking more japanese food and started to learn japanese. This country ,food, people, culture… it‘s so clean and averybody is so calm and polite… I want to visit again as soon as possible. I the meantime I can visit little Japan in Düsseldorf. Thank you very much and I hope you can you make a good combination videos about japanese culture and food. Many something about public transportation in Japan? Since almost everything is in japanese , it‘s not easy. 🙏
Thank you so very much, Taiji! Your videos are always so helpful. You are well informative and as you share you pas this gift along with us. You are a beautiful human being. Thank you for everything that you do. Please take care and stay well. Namaste'
yes, this video took me sooooo long to make, glad it brings something to you!
Thank you, Taiji. Your messages and videos are the ones that I look forward to. There is something about you and the way that you present everything to us that is very meaningful.
Thank you for all of your time and energy, Taiji.
Namaste'
Sean~
Loved this video. I have read some about Shintoism, but this was so beautifully explained i will definitely reference this video in the future. Thank you!
Thank you for the clear, concise explanations.
Thank you very much for explaining Japanese religion.
I really admire, that you were able to develop into such a peaceful nation with so many spirits and respectfulness.
Because at the end, it really does not matter what you believe in, just that you are respectful to others and nature.
And this will bring peace of mind of individual and people.
Beautifully explained. Thank you! The Japanese will always have a place in my heart. I have much love and respect for them. The first years of my life was spent in Japan then later in Okanawa. I remember my Japanese baby setters, I cherish my memories.
glad to hear! btw, Okinawa is part of Japan, lol.
Thank you! So informative!
Concise and very informative, thank you very much
I'm wanting to visit Japan one day it's my dream ❤
Glad to hear!
hope you get your dream to life!
Yes, I agree. His videos are very good 😊
I really hope that you one day are able to forfil your dream of visiting Japan 😀 It is a dream that I also have. And I love learning about the very interesting differances of japanese culture
Thank you for the explanation, it will help my journey to learn about Japanese culture. Your friendliness on this video reached the perfect vibe to learn what you shared. Again thank you.
Just watched this with my 7 year old who has been asking me about these, perfect timing! This was so helpful and gave us a lot of fantastic talking points. Thanks so much, I always love your videos :) Wishing you a great day!
It’s illuminating! Thank you for taking time to make this video, I really appreciate the effort ❤ Happy holidays to all!
Shintoism just sounds... beautiful.
There's no other way I can describe what I just learned.
Thank you for sharing this.
12:53 I was very curious about your Manji symbol because we also had this symbol in the distant past in Iran, more than 7,000 years ago, and its name is spinning wheel or the wheel of Mitra (the goddess of Iranians in the past) and it is a sign of the sun and means “good life or good world” (almost).
I’ve been curious about these religions and appreciate your clear description of each. Thank you.
“Nature is not something we can control. But something we worship,” respect. 🙌🏻
Both religions are amazing and have a rich ancient history!!!! Zoroastrianism and Hinduism are fantastic religions as well!!!
Taiji, v well & simply explained wth demo. 👌
thanx for your comment!
Thank you. Namo Buddhay ☸️🙏 from India 🇮🇳
Awesome video, keep doing it more frequently!
Brilliant idea. Dispels distortions. Understanding others is the key!
Happy hollidays to everyone! 🎄🎉🎈
Thank you for this great video Taiji san 😀
You have such a great way of explaining things, so that they are easy to understand for those of us who perhaps not know so much about the topic of tge video.
I think that I understand japanese religiouse/speritulism practises/vievs a lot better 😊
Happy holidays to you too!
glad you liked the video!
Beautiful, what i can say more 💖
Very well explained and so easy to understand, thank you 💖
I like this type of religion, it's very chill and far more calmer than Christianity.
Each religion offers its own approach to spirituality and ways of life. The perception of calmness or intensity in a religion can vary greatly depending on personal experiences, interpretations, and cultural contexts.Christianity may be seen as having more structured beliefs and practices, it also emphasizes principles such as love, forgiveness, and peace.
Jesus was chill, he told a demon to leave in a calm manner. It the people these days that use that extra energy and while this is their way of doing things, other Christians see it as the only way. In reality, we Christians should always be a good example to others no matter who or what they worship. God does give us free will to choose whether to be with Him for eternity or not.
@@WordBearer-qq1tlbut you guys never forgive them who do not follow your religion and keep on trying to convert them by showing them fear of hell 😂😂😂😂😂
@@VinnyM-tv3nband they move other countries in the form of missionaries to lure poor people to their faith.
Wow amazing ! I think there are many similarities between hinduism and Japanese gods and some of their rituals .
Really a good video bro, Namo Buddhay from India 🇮🇳🙏
You did a fantastic job explaining the difference between Shinto and Buddhism. Thank you for elaborating on the culture and how the Japanese people perceive and understand their beliefs. I really enjoyed your in depth explanation of Shinto and its meanings, and how you explained that Buddhism more as philosophy.
Love Your style! PHENOMENAL! I always had a standing point that each man is a God to himself and this was a giant confirmation of my attitude towards religion in general and how people should perceive themselves.
Taiji, thank you for this video. You explained both Shinto and Buddhism so well. Really! Domo arigato! Looking forward to another great video!
I'm learning to be a interpreter and wanted to know how I should explain this. This is by far most accurate yet simple way of describing not only the difference of the two but how Japanese people practice these 'customs and philosophy'.
Thanks Mister for these precisions !
Thank you for the informative video
Thanks for this Taiji❤❤❤
glad you like it!!
Frohe Weihnachten 🎄
oh ja, ich hab vergessen, dass heute Weihnachten ist... lol
danke und du auch!!
Balance is life, life is balance.
I enjoyed your this video..loved this video...thanks for information truly appreciate your this video ❤
thanx for your nice comment!
Very much looking forward to bowing 🙇♂️ at the Tori ⛩️ Thank you for a clear, concise explanation.
I am from Bihar India where Buddha got enlightenment, and whatever you said about Buddhism is so true. What we don't realise is that religion is a western concept. In reality , Buddhism and Hinduism are philosophies . Hinduism is a way of life even though today India is nowhere around what our ancient Indian philosophies taught us but in order to know about it we must read Buddha dhampatra and Vedas and upnishads
Beautiful philosophy, and very well explained. Thank you.
🎁 Happy Holidays 😇🙏✨
thank you! you too!
Was curious about this thanks
Great Video!! very informative and well explained
My japanese side of the family on my dad's side is buddhist, my mums side is Christian, but my mums side also has buddhist practitioners. So I guess I'm from a buddhist family.
Excellent video. Thank you!
Insightful video, Taiji. It'll be great if you could talk or explain a bit about Japanese minimalism.
I do the same! haha I always say: "I have no religion", and trying to learn more about japanese culture I saw this video and it accurately reflects my beliefs and way of life. My philosophy.of life...
Interesting....
Either it is the natural and real path of the Self
or in my previous incarnation it was in Japan.
The more I study the culture, the more it reflects me.
And that makes me feel inner peace.
I Never fit into Western culture.
because...in fact: I don't understand it.
It's like living in a jungle.
I hope I can fly to Japan one day!
Arigato Gozaimasu for this video.
Very clear and beatiful explained.
Have a great day 🌸🤸
Matane 🙌
Very useful information thank you for sharing
楽しく拝見いたしました。
喜んでいただけて、嬉しいです。
This was very well done and informative. If we ever get to Japan, visiting a Shinto shrine is on the list of things to see and as I understand photos from only the outside. To me many of them are architecturally stunning. I did know about washing one’s hands, but the clapping and bowing I was unaware of. Nice to know if we do visit to know what is the expected behavior.
It’s like an upcoming trip to Europe and visiting their magnificent cathedrals.
1990. I was majoring in psychology but always remember my philopshy class that introduced me to philosophy . Today, I have more time to research and found Nishida kintaro and Nishita who 1930 studied under huseral and heigigger and knew Sartre . Today, I belong to Seicho no Gardena Ca. It’s based on Shinto, Buddhism and Christianity . I knew I found the right religion for me. I am lucky. I leaned to accept things and grow.. than you
Thx for explaining, we will visit Japan and it is a good preparation....
Just as a solid rock is not shaken by the storm, even so the wise are not affected by praise or blame.
-Buddha ❤
There is only One solid rock.
Thank you for your excellent channel.
Since I'd love to visit Japan, I'm learning Japanese and studying Japanese culture. An anthology I read says Japanese people speak ambiguously to protect their relationships and avoid offensive directness. If that's true, please tell us more about it because I'd hate to insult anyone.
Thank you!
Great videos! Very well explained
Is there a correct or incorrect way to bow? How deep do you bow in different situations?
Like for example, your bows before the 鳥居 and before praying. Also, compared to the temple, where you bowed less deeply. Maybe I'm just overthinking into it.
(I hope these are the correct kanji (とりい))
I'm learning Japanese, but we have only learned 4 kanji yet in the course: 日本語、人
There is a light bow and a deep bow, but unfortunately not all Japanese are able to do it correctly.
It is easy to understand if you look for a video explaining bowing called Shin, Gyo, So in the Tea Ceremony.
Thank you, very informative.
In stead of removing the holy Swastika sign, I think we should create awareness and teach people about it. The sign has a very special meaning for Hindu's and Buddhists. People should know it was stolen and misused by that piece of crap. Educate, don't erase!
It has always been a symbol of luck and the sun. Also among the Germanic tribes. If you look at the Germanic runes. And the similarity that the swastika has with the runes. No wonder it ended up on the flag of the NSDAP. Other runes were also used for their order badges and so on.
I really enjoyed shrines and temples in Japan. Can you explain the big incense burners please?
glad you did!
what about them?
Thank you for the video!!
Wonderful, thank you! 🙏
Awesome ❤
Thank you so much for this video. I found it very interesting and well explained. I don’t like any kind of religion cause no one of them teaches to respect others belives. I admire Japanese for the respect they have for everything (food for exemple). Can I ask you if and how do you learn to respect yourself? Thank you again 🙏🏻
If you are really ready to explore the fascinating world of Japanese religion and spirituality, one of the best authors you can read is Lafcadio Hearn, whose Japanese name is Koizumi Yakumo. His best known book is Kwaidan, which is a collection of spooky Japanese ghost stories, but he has a lot of other great books out as well. Lafcadio Hearn was an American writer of mixed Irish / Greek descent who went over to Japan to teach English in the Meiji era, and wound up totally falling in love with the country - even to the extent of marrying a Japanese woman from a noble samurai family and being adopted into that family. When I was in Japan, even my Japanese friends knew and respected the writings of Koizumi Yakumo, or Lafcadio Hearn, and said that he had great insight into the Japanese spirit and national character - the Japanese Kokoro.
great video
Damn, this is very deep but beautiful. One can never guess the amount of culture behind a country on plain sight. I kind like more this approach to life and I feel it more according to my personal belifes. Also it's very crazy certain similarities between this an the mesoamerican philosophy and religion (I'm mexican) where gods are not the same concept. Teotl is often translated as god but for the ancient people and actual native people, these deities where the conscious manifestation of every aspect in life and the universe, not just being that control such things, as such Tlaloc is not a man that controls the rain, he is the rain itself, Quetzalcoatl is the wisfom and wind or Tezcatlipoca is the night, but well for the simplicity they call them gods 😅, and as such every aspect of nature was respected, caves are secred places where is said these being inhabit.
Also the Buddhism philosophy about suffering is also similar, litetally aztec children were received at birth with a speech that ended with "you have come to suffer, suffer and persever" but was more of the belief that you have a role in the world and you must fullfill it (which also include paying respect to gods, honoring your family, respecting nature, making sacrifices and offerings, working and always looking for a way to help your community) and life is a constant cycle where suffering was common but with it and the fullfillment of said duty, also came happines and the prove of a well lived life, as the universe was made in duality, every aspect of the universe had a indivisible counterpart, and both couldn't exist without the other: Life and Death, Light and Darkness or Fire and Water. Even the god were dual as every aspect had a male and female part (which means a male god and female god) or some gods were opposites, like Quetzalcoatl and Tezcatlipoca, opposites, but one was not better than the other, and both were equally worshipped. as such things like good and evil was so simple, as a person has both parts like or not, so for them, it was more about balance, which is the way the universe works.
Of course there were also sacrifices which not gonna lie, were horrible, but even blood offering was view as a way to thank the gods who sacrificed themselves so there could be life (still was very extreme but well).
Sadly this ancient wisdom was almost destroyed and forbidden and persecuted and even today those who still keep it alive are look down upon, mocked or ashamed, but they still keep going with dignity.
Japan's philosophy always fascinated me and I think is also because of the similarities between our ancesters beliefs rather thatn the catholic beliefs, which I have steadily lost faith and connection with, and I have opted for this kind of thinking, where suffering is constant but you must work to get on with life and fullfill your purpose, which is like I would also dig into buddhism more and learn about it, and also I hope I get to visit Japan one day..
Of course I don't say that outloud or else my mother is gonna smack my face 😂
Sorry for the long post, greetings and thanks for the education and can't wait for your next videos.
It's interesting that there's a kami of toilets! In Roman Paganism, there is Cloacina, the goddess of the great sewer of Rome. I've been noticing a few similarities between Shinto and Religio Romana! Both traditions have public temples and home altars, for example.
Excellent 👍
As a Spaniard our religion is probably one of the most destructive things that has ever happened to humanity (and it still is to this day). Catholicism has caused so much suffering around the world, so now as a young spanish person and an atheist it's very hard for me to imagine religion as a positive thing. Very interesting to see buddhism and specially shintoism are more focused on peace and nature. Thanks for this video!
and especially that it was defiantly not the intension of the Jesus of Nazareth. I do agree to some of the beliefs but it is very unfortunate that Christianity is used by the politicians so often and easily as a means to instigate the people to do harm on other folks/countries.
@@taijiskitchenYes, there is beauty and honesty in all *honest* spiritual traditions, but some "bad actors" twist them into cult-like mindsets for selfish gain at the expense of others. Hyper-polarization is really the problem we're watching manifest throughout history, not one particular "belief system" (BS, heh) or perspective.
Thank you for your work :) After learning so much about Japanese culture and even studying the language itself (not to mention all of this starting from being exposed to Japanese art and media ever since I was a child) I feel called to at least visit Japan once at some point. Thanks again! (I just realized my two thanks here are sort of analogous to the practice of bowing twice at the Shinto shrine, haha!)
now..i had the answers with all my own questions about japans tragedy...like tsunami..earthquake...you belief in nature positivity..but you dont believed who done and gave this all nature living...i think that is the problem..
Do remember that Christianity isn’t Spanish.
You have your own native religion, if you choose to seek it out.
I read that when a person dies they go to Yomi , become venerated Kami by loved ones, or continue to help the living somehow . When i die i would go to yomi if im not venerated ?
Is the belief of going to Yomi from a older type of Shinto? Do people still follow this?
I'm thinking of practicing Shinto and will buy a Kamidana but no shrines here Will Kamidana be enough to practice?
Thank you great video 🙏
Well made!😁
Thank you 🙏🏽
awesome
Are you allowed to wander around the grounds of shrines and temples after you enter properly?
🥰 I loved it.
My travel goal for Japan, is to visit many of the shrines and forests asy own little tour.
*as my
I love how nature is respected in Japan 🗾💖🙏🏾😄🤤😋😁💯
It reminds me of the homage of my Afronative 🪶👑🥧 people. We respect our Creator of the Earth without religion being so heavily involved. Nature was here before religion.
I have such a deep love for how the Japanese people, respect the Earth 🌍🌎
Thankyou somuch
I hope I live a long, healthy life and find a good soul mate
And can you also explain or make video on Hobutsushu
Essentially, the Abrahamic God is not similar to kami. But essentially, Odin, Thor, and holy lakes like lake Baikal are kami.
I think people misunderstand that we don't have concepts similar to kami in Japan. NeoPagans understand the concepts of Shinto very well.
I think Asatru as a religion is very similar to Shinto.
In my opinion, Ameterasu Ōmikami would probably more be more like Hera who was queen of the Greek gods of Olympus. In addition, the Kami sound very similar to Manitou of Algonquin Native Americans or the Orishas of Yoruba religion. The latter being part of the belief systems of my ancestors.
Very informative, thank you.
I've seen people clapping before praying in Japanese movies. Is there any special reason for clapping?
yes there is. clapping is thought to purify the area, wiping away any bad thoughts and bad spirits.
we also clap together at the end of a ceremony sometimes, called Ippon-Jime or Sanbon-Jime, depending on just one clapping or threetimes.
Thanks for your explanation🙏