Description
Book SynopsisThis expanded second edition of Historical Dictionary of Shinto relates the history of Shinto through a chronology, an introductory essay, an extensive bibliography, and over 800 cross-referenced dictionary entries on Shinto concepts, significant figures, places, activities, and periods.
Trade ReviewGiven that so little in the way of reference literature exists in English, the publication of the second edition of Picken’s dictionary is an event that merits close attention. The dictionary begins with a chronology of important dates in and a lengthy introduction to this tradition. Of the entries that follow, those for Kami, the object of reverence in Shinto; Nature in Shinto; and Sacredness in Shinto are foundational. Broad in scope, coverage includes entries for historical figures and periods, specific shrines, festivals, rituals, sects, and new religious movements with roots in Shinto. The work concludes with a lengthy bibliography that includes Internet resources....Historical Dictionary of Shinto...is a welcome contribution to the reference literature and recommended for academic collections and large public libraries. * Booklist *
Amid a recent explosion of texts on this ritual-dependent Japanese religion, this revised and updated historical dictionary edition seeks to define the major terms, symbols, devotional activities, figures, and places vital to Shinto practice, whose lack of doctrine and tendency toward religious blending has made consistent explanation difficult. Opening with a time line punctuated by ruling periods, Picken (philosophy, International Christian Univ., Tokyo) prefaces the lexicon with an absorbing chronological overview. Eight hundred newly expanded and alphabetized entries skillfully explain Shinto's complex aspects. An essential subject resource. * Library Journal *
