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Expansion and Contraction in Japanese Ritual

Ben Gurion University

Japanese Shinto rituals are described here in terms of a frame which permits a great deal of variation. Rituals are defined into segments, and the order of segments is fixed canonically. However, the size and elaboration of these segments varies. The variation depends on a number of factors: economic, social, symbolic, which the various participants may manipulate over time for a number of reasons. The dynamics of the ritual are such that this ritual form is able to adapt to changes brought upon by modernization, by changes in local culture and by other factors. Far from being moribund, Shinto, and I would suggest other non-canonical religions as well, are viable and dynamic forces within their cultures.

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