Who was the founder of Shinto?

There is no single founder of Shinto. It is an indigenous religion of Japan that has developed over centuries, incorporating various beliefs, rituals, and practices. Shinto has its roots in ancient animistic beliefs, nature worship, and ancestor veneration. Over time, it has been influenced by Buddhism, Confucianism, and other religious and cultural traditions.

Shinto does not have a central religious figure or a specific prophet who founded it. Instead, it is a collection of diverse beliefs and practices that have evolved over time, based on the reverence for nature and the worship of kami, or spirits. The concept of kami encompasses a wide range of divine entities, including gods, goddesses, natural forces, and spirits of ancestors.

Shinto is traditionally considered to be a non-doctrinal religion without a fixed set of beliefs or scriptures. It emphasizes the importance of ritual practices, festivals, and ceremonies to connect with the kami and maintain a harmonious relationship with the natural world.

Although Shinto does not have a specific founder, there are several notable historical figures who have contributed to its development and shaping. For example, Prince Shotoku (574-622) introduced Buddhism to Japan and promoted the incorporation of Buddhist elements into Shinto. Emperor Meiji (1852-1912) played a significant role in promoting Shinto as a national religion during the Meiji era, establishing State Shinto and solidifying its place as a central part of Japanese culture.