Kami

One of the most important concepts of Shinto, if not the most important, is the concept of Kami. While many describe it as the deities that are worshipped and respected within Shintoism, this definition does not necessarily stretch to all that kami encompasses. Kami, in itself, is the spiritual essence in the world.

Mt. Miwa

(Source: Green Shinto)

Kami can be used as singular or plural. However, it essentially stands for the essence of all that is sacred within our world. Many things can be considered as kami. Deities, ancestors, various forces, and natural phenomenon, such as mountains or water, can be considered kami. An example of this can be found in Mt. Miwa, which is worshipped as if it is kami itself, and according to the beliefs of Shintoism, it is. Even you or I could be considered kami. Essentially, everything in the world is seen as kami, and should be treated with the utmost respect and care that a spiritual being, such as a deity, would be shown. 

While kami is seen as the spiritual essence around us, there are specific deities that are specifically worshipped within Shintoism. The main deities are Izanagi and Izanami, the divine pair who created the Japanese Islands. Their legend is recorded within the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, and is greatly accepted as the true mythology and reasoning behind the state of Japan today. To view a brief retelling of their legend, click here.

Overall, kami can be found in all things. It is seen in both living and non-living things, and therefore everything should be respected and kept sacred. Kami is neither good nor bad, and should not be judged as such. They are not perfect, nor are they all powerful. They are exactly like us, as humans living on Earth, and they dwell among us, hiding within plain site, where we can feel and worship them as much as we please.