358 The Way of the Gods

“The Way of the Gods”

Shinto is a faith handed down from ancient Japan.
It doesn’t have any religious teachings in particular,
And its founder and origins are uncertain,
Yet it is deeply rooted in our culture and customs.

Japanese people value harmony and avoid conflict,
Favor cleanliness and detest impurity.
We consider others before ourselves
And hold dear the virtues of courtesy and order.

Japan has over 100,000 shrines, from large to small,
To honor all the many and various deities.
Each has its own festival and rituals,
So people can pray for an abundant harvest
And the well-being of their families.

In Japan, there is no bias against certain occupations.
If you take pride in your job and master its skills,
Then you are respected.
Working is “the way of the gods,”
Which is also “the way to the gods.”

This world is a place of discipline.
It trains the soul to grow closer to divinity.
The eternal road and the endless journey
Are the essence of Shinto, the Way of the Gods.