Nihon Shoki

Film Focus: The Nihon Shoki is one of the most important sacred texts of Shintoism. The text outlines the creation of the world and is thought of as an early Japanese history. This video briefly touches upon a number of important aspects of this text that are vitally important to Shinto and to Japan.

Text Focus: Pages 444–445

Discussion Questions:

1. When was the Nihon Shoki written? Who wrote it? What kind of literature is this text?
2. What is unique about the Nihon Shoki as a religious text? Consider its message, its art, its binding, and more.
3. What do you notice is distinct about the art in the Nihon Shoki? What is similar to other sacred texts?
4. How is the Nihon Shoki significant to the Shinto religion and Japanese culture?
5. Where might one find an English version of the Nihon Shoki?

*Ave Maria Press has requested permission to link to this video for use in the classroom as part of the accompanying lesson. If for any reason, the producer does not wish this video to be included on this site, Ave Maria Press will remove it posthaste.