Spirituality in the Anime Blogosphere: Natsume Yuujinchou and the Path of Enlightenment

Many conservatives refer to America as a Christian nation (though that’s a point that can be argued).  Japan, most certainly is not such a nation.  Culturally and religiously, Shintoism and Buddhism form a syncretic mix that affects the daily (and even minute-to-minute) lives of most Japanese. Therefore, it’s no surprise to see one or both… Read More Spirituality in the Anime Blogosphere: Natsume Yuujinchou and the Path of Enlightenment

Petty Little Liars

Do you know the anime trope where a character will uncover significant information about another individual, and keep that information secret so as not to hurt that person?  This happens in anime time after time, including in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, which I’m now watching via Hulu.  Spoilers begin here.  In episode 22, Winry discovers that… Read More Petty Little Liars

Spirituality in the Anime Blogosphere: Abel and Cain, Vampire and Priest

We often laugh at the Japanese interpretation of American culture and of Christianity through anime (although they’d like likely do the same if the opposite were true).  The intent of Christian symbolism in anime is typically stylistic, often use to set a mysterious, mystical and/or gothic mood.  But sometimes, the symbolism runs a bit deeper.… Read More Spirituality in the Anime Blogosphere: Abel and Cain, Vampire and Priest