Episode 555 - The Gods March Overseas, Part 1

In this podcast episode, the speaker delves into the intricate relationship between religion and the state during Japan's Meiji era. They highlight the Western view of religion as a personal matter and compare it to Japan's previous system, where religion and politics were closely linked. By focusing on the Kashihara Jingu shrine, built during this transformative period, the episode illustrates how the government cleverly utilized Shinto, presenting it as a cultural institution rather than a religious one. This strategy aimed to strengthen national identity and reinforce the emperor's authority, all while navigating the religious freedom outlined in the Meiji Constitution. The discussion also paves the way for examining Shinto's influence in Japan's overseas territories.