How is Shinto different from other major religions such as Christianity, Islam, and Judaism?

Question

A.
Shinto was developed by Buddhist monks.
B.
Shinto worships only one god.
C.
Shinto does not have a sacred text.
D.
Shinto does not perform religious ceremonies.

Answer 1

The correct answer is C. Shinto does not have a sacred text.

Shinto, unlike Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, does not have a single, authoritative sacred text similar to the Bible, Quran, or Tanakh. While Shinto has many rituals, practices, and a rich tradition of oral teachings, it does not rely on a holy scripture in the same way these other major religions do.

To clarify the other options:

• A is incorrect because Shinto was not developed by Buddhist monks; it is an indigenous religion of Japan that predates Buddhism's arrival.
• B is incorrect because Shinto involves the worship of multiple kami (spirits or deities) rather than a single god.
• D is incorrect because Shinto does perform religious ceremonies and rituals, such as festivals and rites.