Asian Religions Series - Shintō Part 3

Asian Religions Series - Shintō Part 3

Author: Nicholas Bright Haight May 23, 2025 Duration: 27:42

Bright on Buddhism - Asian Religions Series - Shintō Part 3

Hello and welcome to the Asian religions series. In this series, we will be discussing religious traditions in Asia other than Buddhism. Buddhism never existed in a vacuum, and as it has spread all across East Asia, it has developed, localized, and syncretized with local traditions in fascinating and significant ways. As such, we cannot provide a complete picture of East Asian without discussing those local traditions such as they were and are. Disclaimer: this series is very basic and introductory, and does not and cannot paint a complete picture of these religious traditions as they are in the present or throughout history. Today, we will be continuing our discussion of Shinto, a very historically and culturally significant religious tradition in Japan. We hope you enjoy

Resources: Hardacre, Helen (1991). Shintō and the state, 1868–1988 (1st paperback print. ed.). Princeton: Princeton University Press. ISBN 9780691020525.; Josephson, Jason Ānanda (2012). The Invention of Religion in Japan. University of Chicago Press. p. 133. ISBN 978-0226412344.; Breen, John (1 July 2010). "Resurrecting the Sacred Land of Japan: The State of Shinto in the Twenty-First Century". Japanese Journal of Religious Studies. doi:10.18874/jjrs.37.2.2010.295-315; Teeuwen, Mark; Breen, John (2010). A new history of shinto. Chicester: Wiley-Blackwell (an imprint of John Wiley & Sons). ISBN 9781405155168.

Do you have a question about Buddhism that you'd like us to discuss? Let us know by emailing us at Bright.On.Buddhism@gmail.com.

Credits:

Nick Bright: Script, Cover Art, Music, Voice of Hearer, Co-Host

Proven Paradox: Editing, mixing and mastering, social media, Voice of Hermit, Co-Host



Nicholas Bright Haight brings his academic background and personal curiosity to each episode of Bright On Buddhism. As a scholar of East Asian Buddhism currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Religion, with a specialization in pre-modern Japanese Buddhist architecture, Nick approaches these conversations with both depth and accessibility. The discussions unfold in a relaxed, question-and-answer style, making often complex philosophical and historical ideas feel approachable and immediately relevant. You’ll hear explorations that draw from his specific research areas, like Japanese Buddhist historical responses to cultural shifts, while also addressing the broader, timeless questions at the heart of the tradition. This isn’t a formal lecture series, but rather a thoughtful dialogue meant for anyone with an interest in how these ancient teachings intersect with modern life. The Bright On Buddhism podcast creates a space where scholarly insight meets casual conversation, demystifying topics without losing their profound essence. Whether you're well-versed in Buddhist thought or just beginning to explore spirituality and religion, these episodes offer a grounded and informative perspective.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Bright On Buddhism
Podcast Episodes
Buddhish - The Saturday Edition [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:03
Bright on Buddhism - Buddhish 22 - The Saturday EditionJoin us as we begrudgingly discuss the end of our streak of never missing uploads! https://www.gofundme.com/c/act/flood-relief#/Do you have a question about Buddhism…
Lotus Sutra Chapter 2 - Skillful Means [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:06:03
Chapter 2 of the Lotus Sutra - Join us as we read and discuss Chapter 2 of the Burton Watson translation of the Lotus Sutra!Resources: Hurvitz, Leon. 1976. Scripture of the Lotus Blossom of the Fine Dharma. New York: Col…
What are some characteristics of Shingon Buddhist sacred spaces? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:27
Bright on Buddhism - Episode 116 - What are some characteristics of Shingon Buddhist sacred spaces? How do they differ from other Buddhist sacred spaces? How are Shingon sacred spaces influenced by texts and doctrines?Re…
Who is Kumarajiva? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:49
Bright on Buddhism - Episode 115 - Who is Kumarajiva? What did he do in his life? How did that affect Buddhism in East Asia?Resources: Chandra, Moti (1977), Trade and Trade Routes in Ancient India, Abhinav Publications,…
What is the role of visions and dreams in Buddhism? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:36
Bright on Buddhism - Episode 114 - What is the role of visions and dreams in Buddhism? What are some visions and dreams that Buddhists have had? How ought we understand them? (How are they different from imagining a thin…
Sammādiṭṭhi Sutta [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:13:25
Bright on Buddhism - Sammādiṭṭhi Sutta - Join us as we read and discuss the Sammādiṭṭhi Sutta in its entirety.Resources: Bodhi, Bhikkhu (2005). In the Buddha's Words: An Anthology of Discourses from the Pali Canon. Bosto…