日本「宗教」総覧

"日本「宗教」総覧" (Japanese Religious Overview) by 山折哲雄 (Yamazaki Tetsuo) is a comprehensive book that explores the diverse religious landscape of Japan. Here is a detailed overview of the book, including its key themes, plot summary, and critical reception:

Key Themes

1. Historical and Cultural Context: The book examines various religious institutions in Japan, situating them within the broader historical and cultural context of the country.
2. Diverse Religious Traditions: It delves into the different religious traditions in Japan, including Shinto, Buddhism, and other contemporary movements.
3. Interdisciplinary Approach: The book integrates historical, cultural, and anthropological perspectives to provide a rich understanding of Japanese religions.

Plot Summary

The book is structured to explore Japanese religions through a vertical axis of history and culture and a horizontal axis of various religious institutions. It covers a wide range of topics, including the evolution of Shinto, the impact of Buddhism on Japanese society, and the emergence of modern religious movements. The text is organized in a way that allows readers to navigate the complexities of Japanese religious thought and practice.

Critical Reception

While specific reviews of the book are not readily available in the search results, the book's comprehensive nature and interdisciplinary approach suggest it has been well-received by scholars and readers interested in Japanese studies. The book's publication in 1992 indicates its significance in the field of Japanese religious studies at that time, and its enduring relevance is evident from its continued availability in various formats.

Author's Background

山折哲雄 (Yamazaki Tetsuo) is a renowned scholar in Japanese studies. Born in 1931, he completed his doctoral coursework at Tohoku University and went on to become a professor at the National Museum of Japanese History and later at the International Research Center for Japanese Studies, where he also served as the director. His expertise in Japanese culture and religion is reflected in his work, making "日本「宗教」総覧" a valuable contribution to the field.

Availability

The book is available in various formats, including new and used copies. It can be purchased from major Japanese bookstores like Kinokuniya and Mercari, as well as through online marketplaces.