Lesson 6. Religions
Topic Question: What are the main religions in Japan and how do they influence Japanese culture?
No 1.
First, try answering the question yourself. – The instructor will provide advice on vocabulary, grammar, and expression corrections.
Sample Answer – Let’s read aloud – The instructor will check your pronunciation and accent.
The main religions in Japan are Shinto and Buddhism, with Christianity and other religions also present but to a lesser extent. Shinto, Japan’s indigenous faith, is centered around kami (deities or spirits) and involves practices and rituals that honor the natural world and ancestors. It significantly influences Japanese festivals, rituals, and daily customs. Buddhism, introduced from Korea and China around the 6th century, has deeply impacted Japanese philosophy, art, and social customs. It emphasizes impermanence and the cycle of life and death, which is evident in cultural practices like Obon, a festival to honor the spirits of ancestors. While Christianity is less prevalent, it has influenced certain aspects of modern culture, such as Christmas celebrations. The coexistence and syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism have uniquely shaped Japanese culture, values, and aesthetics.
No. 2
5 Words to Learn and Their Meanings – Pronounce the Words Correctly (Pronunciation Training) + Make Sentences Using the Words Instantly
1. Indigenous (土着の): Originating or occurring naturally in a particular place; native.
The area is known for its rich variety of indigenous plants.
2. Deities (神): Gods or goddesses.
In ancient mythologies, deities were often associated with natural phenomena like thunder and rain.
3. Impermanence (無常): The state or fact of lasting for only a limited period of time; transitoriness.
The beauty of cherry blossoms is a reminder of impermanence.
4. Syncretism (融合): The amalgamation or attempted amalgamation of different religions, cultures, or schools of thought.
The syncretism of local traditions and imported beliefs created a unique cultural landscape.
5. Aesthetics (美学): A set of principles concerned with the nature and appreciation of beauty.
Japanese gardens are designed with a focus on aesthetics, emphasizing harmony and balance.
No. 3
Key Expressions and Example Sentences – Pronounce the Example Sentences of Key Expressions Correctly (Pronunciation Training) + Make Sentences Using the Key Expressions Instantly
1. Centered around (を中心に展開する)
The community activities are centered around the local school and its events.
2. Significantly influences (大きく影響を与える)
Technology has significantly influenced how we communicate and access information.
3. Evident in (に明らかに現れる)
Her dedication to her work is evident in the quality of her projects.
No.4
Discussion and Exchange of Opinions on the Sample Answer
Instructor: How do you think the principles of Shinto and Buddhism are reflected in daily life in Japan? Are there similar examples in your own culture where religion influences daily practices?
Student: [Opinions of students]
No. 5
Free Discussion on the topic
Let’s explore how religion influences art and architecture in different cultures. Can you think of examples where religious beliefs have shaped cultural expressions in architecture, festivals, or art in other parts of the world? How do these compare to Japanese examples?
