Dictionary of Symbols: Myths, Dreams, Customs, Gestures, Shapes

One of Japan's major religions, Shinto has no doctrines and there are no sacred texts from which religious authority can be derived. It does not have an identifiable historical founder, and it has survived the vicissitudes of history through rituals and symbols rather than through continuity of doctrine.

This comprehensive reference source—the only one of its kind—covers creation myths through the ages, from the legendary sagas of ancient civilizations to modern scientific theories. The pages of Encyclopedia of Creation Myths present dozens of fascinating tales of clever creations, humans emerging from cosmic eggs, and scientists defying centuries-old religious beliefs.