If we were making the film adaptation of Silence (instead of some schmuck named Martin Scorsese or whatever), we'd totally choose "Losing My Religion" as the opening song. In the novel, Father Sebastian Rodrigues sets off for the distant shores of Japan for one reason—to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ. Hallelujah! As he performs missionary work throughout the impoverished country, however, Rodrigues sees his faith tested, his beliefs questioned, and his followers persecuted. That's a triple threat.
He may walk into his missionary work with a naive mindset, but Rodrigues quickly learns that religion is much a trickier subject than he'd ever imagined.
Questions About Religion
- How is Christianity different in Japan?
- In your view, why do some Japanese Christians confuse Buddhism with Christianity?
- What, if any, are the benefits of missionary work in Japan? What are the downsides?
- Why does Inoue oppose Christianity?