姉崎正治 · あねざき まさはる · people
Anesaki Masaharu
Pioneering historian of Japanese religion (1873–1949) who contributed significantly to the academic study of Shinto and its context.
Definition
Anesaki Masaharu (1873–1949) was a prominent scholar and historian in the field of Japanese religion, particularly Shinto. He received his education at Harvard University and later played a major role in institutionalizing religious studies in Japan. His notable works include 'Shinto: Past and Present' and various articles exploring the intersection of Shinto with Buddhism and other religions. Anesaki's emphasis on empirical historical analysis helped shape the modern understanding of Shinto as a living tradition rather than merely a historical artifact.
Etymology
His surname, 'Anesaki,' is associated with a lineage of scholars from the Meiji period, signifying the intellectual developments of that era.