Feudal Japan - Religion Lesson 3 Starter

Religion has always been an important aspect of Japanese life and culture. It contributed to both the political and _______________ structures of the country and enabled people to understand their world.

• philosopher

• social

• human

• ancestors

The main belief systems in Japan were Shinto, Buddhism and Confucianism.

Shinto is the oldest belief system in Japan and has strong connections to__________________.

• nature

• Samurai

• loyalty

• humans

____, or sacred spirits are a key aspect of the religion as are sacred places in Japan such as Mt Fuji. When people die, they become ____ and as such families continue to pay their respect to their relatives through worship. This is done at shrines, often in the family home. 

• Kami

• ancestors

• human

• philosopher

Buddhism has been part of the Japanese belief system since the 6^th century when it was introduced from China. Shinto and Buddhism co-exist. Buddhism focuses on ___________________, behaviour and discipline

• Meditation

• celebrations

• rituals

• loyalty

One particular sect of Buddhists, Zen, has a particular focus on meditation. This practice was of particular importance to the ______________________ because of the need for discipline and order in their lives.

• Meditation

• Samurai

• ancestors

• philosopher

Confucianism came to Japan in the third century and is named after the philosopher Confucius. Respect for one’s elders, correct relationships, worship of ancestors and the importance of family _________________________ are key principles of Confucianism. 

• loyalty

• rituals

• Meditation

• shrines