20. Which Zen and Shinto values most likely contributed to the growth of these belief systems in Japan?
Zen and Shinto values that most likely contributed to the growth of these belief systems in Japan are:
1. Harmony with Nature: Both Zen and Shinto emphasize the importance of living in harmony with nature. Shinto regards nature as divine and believes in the sacredness of natural elements such as mountains, rivers, and trees. Zen Buddhism also places a strong emphasis on mindfulness and appreciation of the natural world. This shared value of respecting and cherishing nature likely resonated with the Japanese people and contributed to the growth of these belief systems.
2. Inner reflection and Meditation: Zen Buddhism is known for its practice of meditation and mindfulness. Shinto does not have a specific meditation practice, but it values inner reflection and purification rituals. The emphasis on self-reflection and attaining inner peace and enlightenment likely attracted individuals seeking spiritual growth and a deeper understanding of themselves, which contributed to the growth of Zen Buddhism and Shinto.
3. Simplicity and Minimalism: Both Zen Buddhism and Shinto value simplicity, minimalism, and the beauty found in simplicity. Zen Buddhism is known for its minimalist aesthetics in art, architecture, and lifestyle, influenced by concepts like wabi-sabi (the acceptance of imperfections and transience). Similarly, Shinto shrines often have simple, elegant designs that blend with the natural surroundings. This shared emphasis on simplicity likely resonated with the Japanese culture, which values subtlety and understatement, contributing to the growth of these belief systems.
4. Cultural Integration: Zen Buddhism and Shinto have a long history of cultural integration in Japan. Rather than viewing these beliefs as mutually exclusive, many Japanese people practiced both Zen Buddhism and Shinto, finding a complementary relationship between them. This cultural integration and tolerance enabled the growth of these belief systems in Japan as they blended together and accommodated each other's practices and rituals.
Overall, the emphasis on harmony with nature, inner reflection, simplicity, and cultural integration likely contributed to the growth of Zen Buddhism and Shinto in Japan by resonating with the values and spiritual needs of the Japanese people.
a) worship of one god
b) reverence for nature
c) respect for ancestors
d) love of war
a) Worship of one god: This value does not directly align with Zen Buddhism or Shinto. Both Zen Buddhism and Shinto are polytheistic belief systems, with Shinto recognizing multiple gods and spirits known as kami, and Zen Buddhism incorporating elements of Mahayana Buddhism's pantheon of deities. Therefore, the worship of one god is not a value that contributed to the growth of these belief systems in Japan.
b) Reverence for nature: As mentioned earlier, both Zen Buddhism and Shinto place a strong emphasis on reverence for nature. Shinto regards nature as inherently divine and sacred, while Zen Buddhism promotes mindfulness and appreciation of the natural world. This shared value of respecting and cherishing nature likely played a significant role in the growth of these belief systems in Japan.
c) Respect for ancestors: Ancestor worship is a prevalent practice in Shinto. Shinto believers show respect and honor their ancestors through various rituals, such as the Obon festival. Zen Buddhism, on the other hand, may not focus as explicitly on ancestor worship but does emphasize the interconnectedness of all beings, including ancestors. The value of respecting ancestors contributed to the growth of these belief systems in Japan, particularly in the case of Shinto.
d) Love of war: Love of war is not a value specific to Zen Buddhism or Shinto. While Japan has had periods of militarism in its history, and there have been instances of religiously motivated violence, it is essential to distinguish these actions from the core teachings and values of Zen Buddhism and Shinto. These belief systems generally advocate for peace, non-violence, and compassion. Therefore, the love of war does not contribute to the growth of Zen Buddhism or Shinto in Japan.