Japanese Religion: Unity and Diversity

by H. Byron Earhart

In continuous print since 1969, this text has helped establish the treatment of Japanese religion as a unified worldview, offering a concise yet thorough look at the culture and history of the Japanese religion. This text helps students see Japanese religion as a whole, rather than as disconnected religious traditions. No technical knowledge of Japanese history, Japanese religion, or the Japanese language is required for understanding the material. JAPANESE RELIGION has been used in Japan and Europe, as well as in North America.

Genres: Japan, Nonfiction, Spirituality

312 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1974

Reviews

[Carlos · Rating 3 out of 5]

Earhart does an excellent job in mapping out the complex interrelations between different religious traditions in Japan. He starts by charting the components of the tradition that would become Shinto only in contrast with the arrival of Buddhism. He then follows the interplay of these two traditions as they experienced cycles of growth and stagnation closely related to the political changes in Japanese history. He likewise notes the recurring cycles of import and acculturation of Buddhist ideas from the Asian mainland and the perpetual borrowing between Buddhism and Shinto. Lastly, he tracks the evolution of these traditions in the tumultuous period of first contact with the West and the momentous developments in Japanese society since the 1860s. Definitely an interesting read well worth the time of anyone curious to understand the laidback syncretism of the Japanese people.

[Velvetea · Rating 3 out of 5]

An informative college student's text about the many beliefs and spiritual practices acknowledged by Japanese society. It clearly defines the major ones, and even delves into folk traditions and lesser-known beliefs. The major point he makes is that Japan doesn't have any "one religion", but instead practice a variety of any or all religions from foreign countries and their own traditional festivals, many of which are still upheld today.

A good way to pass down time at work in my Japanese public high school.

[Regina Hunter · Rating 3 out of 5]

Most of the stuff here I knew from manga and anime, if you read or watch those this book would be just the confirmation of your thoughts.

[Othy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a great introduction with just the right amount of details. It's old (1974), so some information may be out of date, but its descriptions of Japanese religions as intermingled is spot on. Highly recommended for a beginner text.

[Beatrice · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read for thesis

[Mabisu · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read for thesis

[Maura · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read this for my Japanese Religions class. This is pretty informative, but it is by no means comprehensive. There is a lot more supplemental information out there as well.

[Dan Rudd]

Good overview. Makes me want to read more.