Suicide Divers?

Plus, they believed in reincarnation, and that how you comport yourself in this life determines how you come back.

 

As I was only referring to the Shinto faith, the predominant faith in Japan during the war, and the official religion of the throne I wonder if that "reincarnaiton" is a truism.

I believe (correct me if I’m wrong here) that unlike either Hinduism or Buddhism, in Shintoism there was no concept of reincarnation or rebirth of souls after death. Only that all souls would finally merge in the supreme spirit through specific post-life steps.

That isn’t to say that some Japanese could not be both followers of Buddha and Shinto at the same time as I don’t believe they are mutually exclusive.

 

You could be right, religion is not my strong suit. It would seem to make one more willing to sacrifice "this" life.

By the way, thanks for bringing this site to my/our attention. Little slower moving than THC, but not as much aggravation. Seeing a few familiar names here!