Introducing Japanese Religion

The second edition of Robert Ellwood's Introducing Japanese Religions is a superb enhancement to his already wonderful first edition, providing exciting new insights and additions which creatively update our understanding of the complex history and development of Japanese religious life. There is much new material on Japanese folk and popular religion, as well as electronic resources that are now available to students. The reflections of Professor Ellwood's long and distinguished career continue to intrigue students and scholars alike. This new edition is quite simply a great text for comprehensive courses on Japanese religion. Charles S. Prebish, Utah State University, USA This second edition of Ellwood's introduction to Japanese religion is an expansive improvement of the first edition (2008). The present volume provides more detail by bringing to light the rich complexity of the religious experience of the Japanese people from ancient times-before the introduction of Chinese religious traditions-to the 21st century, with its complex mix of religious and secular ideas and practices. This edition also provides new material on folk and popular religion, particularly shamanism, festivals, and practices surrounding death and funerals. Quotations from original sources, suggestions for further reading, and a glossary further enhance this edition's value as an introduction to the religious history of Japan. P. O. Ingram, Pacific Lutheran University (Emeritus). January 2017 issue of CHOICE