The Absence of Absolute Purpose and the Dominance of Moral Relativism
One of the deepest philosophical flaws within Shintoism is its fundamental lack of an absolute moral framework derived from divine revelation, as well as the absence of a clear ultimate purpose for human existence beyond temporary worldly harmony.
Academic sources explicitly state that, unlike monotheistic religions, Shintoism does not recognize any absolute standards (No absolutes). There is no fixed معيار for absolute right or wrong.
Human beings are viewed as inherently good by nature, and evil is considered the result of external negative influences or spiritual impurity (Kegare), rather than a conscious moral rebellion against divine commands.
Accordingly, the concept of sin in Shintoism is not a deliberate violation of a divine law, as in Islam, but rather a disturbance in cosmic or social harmony (Wa), or a form of impurity that may arise even without wrongdoing—such as illness, natural disasters, or contact with death.
In contrast, Islamic theology defines the purpose of existence with clarity and precision. Ibn al-Qayyim explains that human souls were created predisposed to recognize, worship, and glorify Allah:
“Act as a responsible vicegerent on earth
Live according to fixed divine values revealed through revelation
Thus, without divine legislation, moral relativism prevails, allowing actions to be justified as long as they maintain superficial social harmony.