Ma`rifat Adyan

Abstract Altruistic self‑sacrifice constitutes a foundational element within religious traditions, and examining its identity‑forming and spiritual underpinnings opens new horizons in anthropological and religious studies. This article, entitled “Altruism and Self‑Sacrifice in Shi‘i Religious Teachings and Shinto,” analyzes this concept within two distinct traditions. The first section, drawing on Qur’anic verses and the exemplary conduct of the Shi‘i Imams, demonstrates that self‑sacrifice in Shi‘i thought rests on three pillars: the Qur’anic principle of prioritizing the preservation of religion over life; its historical manifestation in pivotal events such as the Laylat al‑Mabīt and the Karbala uprising; and the interpretation of martyrdom as the highest stage of proximity to God. The second section examines self‑sacrifice in Shinto along three axes: doctrinal foundations such as patriotism, the sacredness of the land, the plurality of kami, devotion to the emperor, harmony with nature, and the Bushidō ethic; spiritual aims including purification, family joy, the support of the kami, loyalty to the emperor, and release from the physical body; and ethical traits such as courage, loyalty, gratitude, and honor. The findings indicate that self‑sacrifice in Shinto possesses a ritual‑cultural character grounded in the devotee’s relationship with the kami, whereas in Shi‘i teachings it is explained within the framework of monotheism, divine obedience, and sacred struggle. Despite these differences, both traditions regard altruism as a means of preserving collective identity and fostering moral refinement.