An Islamic Japan? with Dr Naoki Yamamoto

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Japan is a country that is known for its deep connection with tradition. Much of its rich culture comes from its adherence to two religious beliefs, Shintoism and Buddhism but it has also been influenced by Confucianism. The Japanese value purity and cleanliness. Unlike western individualism, Japanese culture places a great deal of attention on the group and mutual respect with a strong emphasis on harmony and balance. Although globalisation has brought with it westernisation, there is still an emphasis on learning Japanese customs at an early age, such as practicing the tea ceremony, wearing kimono and studying arts and crafts.

Our guest today, Dr Naoki Yamamoto converted to Islam 14 years ago. He is now an academic at Istanbul’s Marmara University and helps a growing number of Japanese converts acclimatise to their Islamic commitments. Many of whom attend classes in this city. Dr Naoki argues that for Islam to be successful in Japan, it needs to work in harmony with Japanese culture. Indeed he is known in Istanbul for demonstrating the tea ceremony. We discuss Muslim converts in Japan and the themes he raises of cultural harmony and Islam. Can Islam adopt the cultural heritage of Japan?

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The Thinking Muslim Podcast Episode 105

Time stamps
00:00 Introduction
02:42 Muslim Cultures
05:40 Japanese in Istanbul
08:22 Challenges faced by Converts
14:25 Islamicising Japanese Culture?
25:37 Da'wah and Culture
31:50 Islamic Cultures
39:40 Japanese Soft Power?
47:15 Young Japanese and Tradition
49:18 Muslim Conversion
50:30 Muslim Migrants in Japan
52:56 Islamicate Tea Ceremony
54:00 Islamic Red Lines
1:01:18 Japanese Islamic Books
1:07:53 Turkish Culture
1:12:54 Returning to Japan?
1:16:30 Islamic Roots in Japan
1:18:05 Islam Growing?