7.3 Contemporary Practice and Influence
3 min read•august 7, 2024
Shinto and Zoroastrianism have evolved in modern times, adapting to new challenges while maintaining their core beliefs. These ancient faiths continue to shape the cultures and identities of their followers, even as they spread beyond their traditional homelands.
Both religions face the task of preserving their traditions in a changing world. From Shinto's influence in Japan to communities, these faiths demonstrate resilience and ongoing relevance in contemporary society.
Shinto in Modern Japan
State Shinto and Nationalism
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- emerged during the Meiji period (1868-1912) aimed to unify the nation under the emperor
- The emperor was considered a direct descendant of the sun goddess Amaterasu and a divine being
- Shinto shrines were used to promote and loyalty to the emperor
- After World War II, State Shinto was abolished under the new constitution which separated religion and state
Contemporary Shinto Practices and Beliefs
- Shinto remains an important part of Japanese culture and identity with many Japanese participating in and festivals
- Shinto shrines continue to be important places of worship and pilgrimage (, )
- Many Japanese households maintain a , a small altar for daily offerings and prayers to the kami
- Shinto rituals and ceremonies mark important life events such as births, weddings, and coming-of-age celebrations
- in the sacredness of nature and the importance of purification and harmony continue to influence Japanese culture and aesthetics
Zoroastrian Diaspora and Practices
Parsi Community in India
- The descends from Zoroastrians who fled persecution in Iran and settled in India during the 7th-10th centuries CE
- Parsis have made significant contributions to Indian society in business, philanthropy, and the arts (Tata family, Freddie Mercury)
- Parsi religious practices include the use of fire temples for worship and the exposure of the dead in
- The Parsi population has been declining due to low birth rates and strict rules against intermarriage
Zoroastrian Diaspora and Global Presence
- Smaller Zoroastrian communities exist in other parts of the world including Iran, the United States, Canada, and Australia
- Many Zoroastrians have migrated from India and Iran in search of economic opportunities and religious freedom
- Zoroastrian organizations and associations work to preserve cultural heritage and promote interfaith dialogue (, )
- Zoroastrian youth programs and camps aim to pass on religious traditions and values to younger generations
Nowruz Celebrations and Cultural Significance
- is the Zoroastrian New Year celebration which coincides with the spring equinox
- Nowruz traditions include thorough cleaning of the home, preparing a special table setting with symbolic items, and visiting family and friends
- Nowruz is celebrated by many communities beyond Zoroastrians, particularly in Iran and other parts of Central Asia
- Nowruz has been recognized by the United Nations as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity
Zoroastrian Influence and Ethics
Influence on Monotheistic Religions
- Zoroastrianism's concept of a supreme god, , and the dualism between good and evil influenced the development of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam
- The figure of and Zoroastrian teachings are mentioned in the Quran and other Islamic texts
- Zoroastrian ideas about the afterlife, including a final judgment and the resurrection of the dead, parallel beliefs found in Abrahamic religions
- Some scholars argue that the Magi mentioned in the Bible as visiting the infant Jesus were Zoroastrian priests
Environmental Ethics and Stewardship
- Zoroastrian teachings emphasize the sacredness of the natural elements (earth, water, fire, air) and the importance of protecting the environment
- The , the Zoroastrian sacred texts, instructs followers to care for the earth and avoid polluting the elements
- Zoroastrians traditionally practice , leaving the dead exposed to the elements and scavenger birds, as a way to avoid contaminating the earth
- Contemporary Zoroastrians have engaged in environmental activism and promoted eco-friendly practices rooted in their religious beliefs (solar power projects, tree-planting initiatives)
Key Terms to Review (18)
Ahura Mazda: Ahura Mazda is the supreme god in Zoroastrianism, symbolizing truth, light, and goodness. This divine figure is central to the religion's belief system, representing the ultimate source of wisdom and the creator of the universe. Ahura Mazda stands in opposition to Angra Mainyu, the spirit of evil, highlighting the dualistic nature of Zoroastrianism, which emphasizes the ongoing battle between good and evil in the world.
Avesta: The Avesta is the sacred scripture of Zoroastrianism, consisting of a collection of texts that include hymns, rituals, and religious laws. It serves as the primary source of Zoroastrian beliefs and teachings, reflecting the core concepts of dualism, the nature of the divine, and ethical living. Through its various sections, the Avesta illustrates the historical development of Zoroastrian thought and continues to influence contemporary practices within the faith.
Environmental Ethics: Environmental ethics is a philosophical discipline that examines the moral relationship between humans and the natural environment. It addresses questions about the value of nature, the rights of non-human entities, and the ethical responsibilities humans have towards the planet. This branch of ethics often intersects with various religious beliefs, as many traditions emphasize the importance of stewardship and respect for nature, particularly in the context of practices and teachings that advocate for sustainable living and respect for all forms of life.
Federation of Zoroastrian Associations of North America: The Federation of Zoroastrian Associations of North America (FEZANA) is a coalition that represents the interests and activities of Zoroastrian communities in the United States and Canada. It aims to promote Zoroastrian culture, heritage, and religion, while fostering unity among diverse Zoroastrian groups and encouraging community engagement and outreach efforts.
Ise Grand Shrine: Ise Grand Shrine, or Ise Jingu, is a Shinto shrine in Japan dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu and is considered the most sacred site in Shintoism. It consists of two main shrines, Naikū and Gekū, and is renowned for its architectural beauty, cultural significance, and the practice of annual rituals that reflect the deep connection between the Japanese people and their indigenous religion.
Kamidana: A kamidana is a traditional Japanese household shrine dedicated to the kami, or spirits, in Shinto belief. It serves as a focal point for worship and devotion, allowing families to connect with their ancestral spirits and the divine. The kamidana is typically placed in a prominent area of the home and is used for daily offerings, prayers, and rituals, reflecting the ongoing influence of Shinto practices in contemporary Japanese culture.
Meiji Shrine: Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Shibuya, Tokyo, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, who played crucial roles in the modernization of Japan during the Meiji Era (1868-1912). This shrine serves as a symbol of contemporary Japanese spirituality and reflects the continuing influence of Shinto practices in modern society, showcasing how traditional beliefs coexist with Japan's rapid modernization.
Nationalism: Nationalism is a political ideology that emphasizes the interests and culture of a particular nation, often advocating for the independence and self-determination of that nation. It can foster unity among people sharing a common identity but may also lead to exclusionary practices against those perceived as outsiders. Nationalism has significantly influenced contemporary practices in various social and political movements worldwide.
Nowruz: Nowruz is the Persian New Year, celebrated on the vernal equinox, marking the arrival of spring and symbolizing renewal and rebirth. This festival has deep roots in Zoroastrianism, where it reflects themes of rejuvenation and the victory of light over darkness, connecting to core beliefs about the importance of nature and life. It is not only a cultural celebration for Zoroastrians but also holds significance in various communities across the Middle East and Central Asia.
Parsi Community: The Parsi community is a group of Zoroastrians who migrated to India from Persia (modern-day Iran) to escape religious persecution in the 7th century. This vibrant community has maintained its unique cultural identity and religious practices, significantly influencing the social, economic, and cultural landscape of India, particularly in contemporary settings.
Shinto Beliefs: Shinto beliefs are rooted in the indigenous spirituality of Japan, focusing on the worship of kami, which are spirits associated with natural elements, ancestors, and sacred places. These beliefs emphasize harmony with nature, rituals for purification, and the importance of community and tradition, reflecting a deep connection to the natural world and the ancestors who came before.
Shinto Rituals: Shinto rituals are traditional ceremonies and practices within Shinto, the indigenous religion of Japan, that focus on honoring kami (spirits or gods) and promoting harmony between humans and nature. These rituals are essential for maintaining the spiritual well-being of individuals and communities, often involving purification, offerings, prayers, and festivals that celebrate the changing seasons and significant life events.
Sky Burial: Sky burial is a funerary practice in which the body of a deceased person is exposed to the elements and scavenging birds, particularly vultures, on a mountaintop or high place. This ritual, primarily associated with Tibetan Buddhism, reflects beliefs about the impermanence of life and the importance of giving back to nature, emphasizing a deep respect for the cycle of life and death.
State Shinto: State Shinto refers to the government-sponsored version of Shinto, which became the state religion of Japan during the Meiji period (1868-1912). It was characterized by the promotion of Shinto as a means to foster national identity and loyalty to the emperor, intertwining religious practice with the political structure of the state. This version of Shinto emphasized the divine nature of the emperor and sought to unify the nation under a common spiritual and cultural framework.
Towers of silence: Towers of silence, known as 'dakhmas,' are circular, raised structures used in Zoroastrianism for the exposure of the dead. This practice is rooted in the core belief that bodies are considered impure after death, and therefore, should not be buried or cremated, as these methods would pollute the earth and fire, both sacred elements in Zoroastrian cosmology. The towers serve as a practical solution to dispose of corpses while respecting the fundamental tenets of the faith.
World Zoroastrian Organisation: The World Zoroastrian Organisation (WZO) is a global body that aims to promote and preserve the values, teachings, and practices of Zoroastrianism. Established in 1997, it serves as a platform for Zoroastrians worldwide to connect, support one another, and address issues affecting the community while also fostering interfaith dialogue and understanding.
Zoroaster: Zoroaster, also known as Zarathustra, was an ancient Iranian prophet and the founder of Zoroastrianism, one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions. He is credited with teaching the concepts of a single god, Ahura Mazda, and the importance of individual choice in the cosmic struggle between good and evil. Zoroaster's teachings laid the foundation for key beliefs in Zoroastrianism, influencing various aspects of religious thought and practice both historically and in contemporary contexts.
Zoroastrian Diaspora: The Zoroastrian diaspora refers to the communities of Zoroastrians who have migrated from their historical homeland in Persia (modern-day Iran) to various parts of the world, particularly during and after the Islamic conquest of Persia. This movement led to the establishment of vibrant Zoroastrian communities in countries such as India, where they are known as Parsis, and in places like North America, the UK, and Australia. The diaspora has significantly influenced contemporary Zoroastrian practices and cultural identity, as these communities adapt to their new environments while striving to preserve their ancient traditions.