Word 095
Within the deep forest of Kasuga Taisha, alongside the grand main sanctuary, countless smaller shrines stand quietly scattered among the trees.
Some are large halls; others are tiny shrines no bigger than the palm of a hand. Each one enshrines a different deity, with its own distinct form and role.
And yet, none ranks above another. Neither size nor the length of one's history determines worth here. Walking through the forest, each god simply remains — quietly, in its own place.
Since ancient times, Japan has held a concept called Yaoyorozu no Kami — "the eight million gods."
In other words, the belief that a god dwells in absolutely everything.
Put another way, Japan has long carried within it a big-hearted culture — one that honors individuality, and accepts every single person.
Even before the smallest, quietest shrine tucked deep in the forest, someone stops to press their hands together. Neither size nor fame matters — it is simply the quiet belief that a god is there that sustains the place.