Introduction

The question of why Japanese people may find it difficult to convert to Christianity compared to other East Asians is multifaceted and deeply rooted in cultural and societal norms. This article aims to explore this topic by diving into the unique relationship between religion and society in Japan.

The Classroom Insight

From personal experience as a language teacher, I observed a striking difference in how students from different countries approached academic discussions. Italian students would confidently speak about pasta and the pope, while Russian students shared information about ballet and communism. In contrast, the Japanese students frequently consulted each other, indicating a more collective approach to decision-making. This behavior extended to my wife and her family, leading me to understand that religion in Japan is not a codified dogma in everyday life but rather a part of cultural and social fabric.

Higher Education and Religious Lack of Involvement

During my teaching experience at a Catholic university in Japan, I noticed a significant gap between the students' professed beliefs and their actual knowledge. The theology students, who identified themselves as Catholic, had no grasp of their religion's dogma or moral teachings. This observation is further supported by the fact that they followed church rituals without a deep understanding of underlying beliefs. In many countries, ignorance of religious dogma would be alarming, but in Japan, it is more common to participate in rites and rituals solely for cultural and social validation rather than moral and spiritual reasons.

Adapting to Local Conditions

For Christian churches in Japan to gain acceptance, they must adapt to the local culture. The example of my brother-in-law’s Catholic wedding is illustrative. Unlike many others, his wedding was a genuine Catholic ceremony, conducted by a genuine Japanese Catholic priest. This adaptation suggests that churches need to navigate local customs to ensure their practices are meaningful to the community. Failure to do so would lead to being perceived as a threat to societal norms and, potentially, social stability.

Religious Crises and Societal Norms

The deep-seated conformist nature of Japanese society can make it difficult for unconventional religious practices to be accepted. For instance, groups like the Unification Church are often viewed with suspicion and forces for change, leading to instances of forced conversions and social unrest. This societal pressure explains why even major religious events like Christmas are largely commercialized and devoid of religious significance in Japan.

Historical Context

Japan’s history of rejecting foreign religions is another crucial factor influencing current religious dynamics. For centuries, Japan was closed to foreign influences, specifically to prevent the spread of religious fervor from Portuguese and Spanish cultures. This history of cultural isolation has contributed to a more localized and ritual-based approach to religion in Japan. The Dutch, allowed to trade under specific conditions, also did not try to introduce their religion, further demonstrating the critical relationship between trade and religious freedom in Japan’s history.

Conclusion

While this article presents personal observations and insights, it is clear that the reasons behind the difficulty in converting Japanese people to Christianity are complex. The cultural, historical, and societal factors at play must be understood to gain deeper insights into this phenomenon. As Christianity continues to adapt to Japan, an understanding of these cultural nuances becomes increasingly important.

References

Personal experience as a teacher and a husband in Japan, discussions with a Catholic and theologian friend who has lived in Japan for many years.