From 1614 until 1853, Japan’s doors were almost completely shut to the rest of the world. During that period known as Sakoku, Christianity was among the many foreign influences banned by the shogunate. To understand why Christianity was banned in Japan, it is essential to understand the political, religious, and cultural circumstances during this long period of isolation.
During the seventeenth century in Japan, the firm grip of the shogunate saw the Central Authority forcing a policy of exclusionism, while suppressing religious influences that they deemed as dangerous or disruptive. This included Buddhism, Confucianism, Christianity, and Shinto. To the shogunate, Christianity had the potential to challenge feudalism, which was the basis of their power and control. Christians were also seen to threaten imperial authority, especially when the Jesuit missionaries championed their cause and lobbied for a relationship with the Portuguese Empire.
The shogunate fell in 1868 and for the first time Christianity was allowed to establish itself. The government soon realized that perhaps the only way to restore Japanese credibility and influence throughout the world was to reform its foreign policy, ending the era of national seclusion. During this period of national openness, known as the Meiji period, missionaries were welcomed in Japan. By 1923 it is estimated that there were 260,000 Christians in Japan.
The political, religious, and cultural climate in Japan when Christianity was banned no doubt had a significant impact. The power of the shogunate, their xenophobic views, and their desire to preserve their control meant that they were unwilling to entertain any foreign influences which threatened their authority. In addition, the Jesuits inflamed the shogunate’s already hostile attitude towards Christianity due to their strong commitment to their cause, which in turn made the government apprehensive of their methods.
In today’s Japan, Christianity has become an accepted religion and many Japanese citizens have embraced its teachings in various forms. It is clear that the reasons for why Japan banned Christianity no longer exist, yet the legacy of the Sakoku period remains prominent to this day. The shogunate successfully maintained their rule by excluding foreign influence, resulting in Japan becoming a unique and distinct culture that still stands today.
Present Day Christians in Japan
Today, Christianity is widely accepted in Japan and some 360,000 Christians are members of the country’s two largest Christian denominations, Protestant and Catholic. The number of Christians in Japan is still quite small compared to larger Asian countries, but it is growing steadily. This can be largely attributed to the country’s welcoming attitude towards foreign cultures, which has led to an increase in the number of Christian missionaries and organizations operating in Japan.
The rise in the number of Christians has been accompanied by the growth of vibrant communities of believers, churches, and other ministries throughout the country. This has been facilitated by the increased availability and accessibility of Christian media, such as books, films, and music. In addition, educational and humanitarian initiatives have also helped to bolster Christian outreach activities in Japan over the last few decades.
Not all Japanese people are Christian, and the acceptance of Christianity outside of its communities is still quite low. There is still a strong sense of traditional values, including ties to Shintoism and Buddhism, which are heavily embedded in Japan’s culture and social fabric. To be sure, Christianity has become a part of contemporary society in Japan and it is slowly but surely gaining the acceptance and respect that it deserves.
The Role of the Catholic Church
The Catholic Church has played a crucial role in introducing Christianity to Japan as it was instrumental in the process of evangelization when the country opened to the world in the late 19th century. The Church was one of the first foreign entities to establish itself in Japan after it opened its doors to the world, and it still remains one of the most prominent Christian entities in the country to this day.
The Catholic Church has been involved in a variety of initiatives in Japan, many of which are aimed at serving the local communities. These include through charitable works, educational programs, healthcare initiatives, cultural exchanges, and even interfaith dialogue. These initiatives have enabled the Catholic Church to not only impact lives but also to interact and build meaningful relationships with people. Through its commitment to the Japanese people and its dedication to serving them, the Catholic Church has enabled Christianity to thrive in the country.
The Impact of the Internet
The internet has also had a major impact on the growth and spread of Christianity in Japan. Social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have seen a surge in Christian communities in Japan, especially among the younger generations. These sites have provided a platform for people to share their faith, find fellowship, and engage in meaningful conversations about Christianity.
In addition, a range of Christian websites, blogs, and forums have provided spaces for people to learn about Jesus and the Bible, discuss theological matters, receive spiritual advice, and even listen to Christian music. These sites have become virtual hubs for Japanese Christians, providing them with a place to come together and grow in their faith. This has enabled Christianity to reach an even wider audience in Japan.
The Changing Face of Christianity in Japan
The last century has seen a remarkable transformation of Christian faith in Japan. The religion started out being heavily suppressed by the shogunate but has now become an accepted and respected part of society. This has been made possible due to a number of factors, such as the rise of the Catholic Church in Japan, the prevalence of the internet, and the country’s increasing welcoming attitude towards foreign cultures.
The growth of Christianity in Japan is still in its early stages and much work remains to be done. But Christian ministries, churches, and organizations in Japan are continuing to reach out to people with the good news of Jesus, and it is clear that their efforts are beginning to pay off. Perhaps one day Christianity will be just as much a part of Japan’s culture as it is in many other parts of the world.
Christianity in Pop Culture
The rise of Christianity in Japan is also evident in many facets of popular culture. Music and literature have often reflected themes of Christian faith, while television and film have featured prominent Christian characters and stories. For example, the Japanese film “Silence” tells the story of a Portuguese Jesuit priest in 17th century Japan. It’s a gripping tale of faith and courage in a time when Christianity was heavily punished by the shogunate.
The anime series “Gintama” also has a storyline which revolves around Christianity in Japan. The story follows protagonist Gintoki Sakata who comes across a mysterious girl claiming to be a messenger of God, who tasks him with protecting a hidden church. The show provides viewers with an interesting commentary on the role of religion in modern day Japan, as well as some of the challenges that religion can pose in such a rapidly changing society.
Finally, there is the manga series “Saint Young Men” which follows two men named Jesus and Buddha. They are roommates who are on a trip around Japan, and the story follows their interactions with the locals and their impressions of the country. This story provides an interesting look into how Christianity is perceived in contemporary Japan, while at the same time sending a powerful message of acceptance and love.
Learning More About Christianity in Japan
With growing interest in Japan, Christianity is likely to become a more prominent faith in the country in the years to come. Those who are interested in learning more about the history of Christianity in Japan or its current place in Japanese society can learn from a variety of sources. There are countless books, websites, and articles written about the topic, as well as various documentaries and films that explore the subject in greater detail.
In addition, there are many organizations and groups in Japan dedicated to sharing the gospel and learning about Christianity. Participating in one of these groups is a great way to gain a deeper understanding of the religion and its role in modern day Japan.
From its humble beginnings when it was banned by the shogunate to its current place in Japanese society, the story of Christianity in Japan is an interesting and inspiring one. With so many opportunities to learn more and get involved, anyone who is interested in the topic is sure to find plenty of material to explore.
