In the Shinto Religion, Kami is not defined or established as a god. In Shintoism there is no absolute god that is the creator of all humans and nature. Everything was of spiritual existence including materials and inanimate objects. Kami was defined as an awe inspiring, life giving power that can bring people luck or misfortune. We can categorize the type of kami’s into four distinct yet overlapping types that include: natural forces, clan deities (may be natural forces or another type), hero deities, and place deities - mountains, waterfalls, impressive rocks or trees, etc. (Shinto PPT) To better grasp the idea of Kami, its best to point out Japanese Scholar , Motoori Norinaga (1730 - 1801) who establishes his meaning of the term. He states:
“…It is hardly necessary to say that it includes human beings. It also includes such objects as birds, beasts, trees, plants, seas, mountains, and so fort. In ancient usage, whatsoever was outside the ordinary,
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She is honored not just by blood relatives but by the general population as has become the national deity of all Japan. In fact her identification with the nation is made clear on the national flag that displays her symbol of the red sun circle. Her importance is in terms of providing energy and warmth to the earth and the lives of humans. Regarded as a protector many ceremonies are concerned with the agriculture and growth of good crops. Like Mt. Haychine, many strengthen their spirituality with Amaterasu directly. In the book, “The Goddesses' Mirror: Visions of the Divine from East and West”, Kinsley states, “ Its members inhale the divine vitality by facing the Sun in the morning and praying to Amaterasu - mikami” This sun worship clearly displays the importance of Amaterasu. Without her everything would wither and die. She is the goddess of sun and the sun ruled the lives of the people. So it was important for the people to maintain that