Religion, Power, and the Rise of Shinto in Early Modern Japan

Exploring the interplay between religion and governance, Religion, Power, and the Rise of Shinto in Early Modern Japan reveals Shinto's growing significance in Tokugawa society.

This book offers a fresh perspective on the intricate relationship between religion and state during early modern Japan, particularly highlighting the evolving role of Shinto within the political and intellectual circles of Tokugawa Japan. Despite Buddhism being the dominant religious force used for state control, Religion, Power, and the Rise of Shinto in Early Modern Japan illustrates how Shinto gradually gained prominence and recognition among the elite, reflecting a significant shift in religious dynamics.

The first section delves into the Tokugawa government's strategy to manage the populace through Buddhism, while simultaneously elevating the status of Buddhism in relation to the Tokugawa dynasty. The subsequent chapters address the various religious protests that emerged during this era, including the suppression of Christians, the crackdown on heterodox Buddhist sects, and the marginalization of folk practitioners. This exploration reveals the complexities of religious authority and its impact on society.

In the final part, the book examines the motivations behind early Tokugawa Confucianism's interest in Shinto as a potential alternative to Buddhism. It also discusses the efforts to limit Buddhism's institutional power by reforming Shinto shrines, marking a critical phase in the so-called 'Shintoization of shrines' and the establishment of a distinct Shinto clergy. Overall, Religion, Power, and the Rise of Shinto in Early Modern Japan provides a comprehensive analysis of these transformative processes within the historical context.