It is important to understand that this resource was written by a non-Christian (Hearn) in 1904. Although "old," this book provides valuable insight and details which are hard to come by in other resources. There will be a number of ideas put forth in the book which we do not support or promote (not aligning with a scriptural perspective), however, if understood from the perspective in which the book was written, we can glean valuable insight about Japan and even potential reasons why Christianity has struggled to gain acceptance in Japan and other eastern nations. Some of his blatant anti-Christian sentiments, even, give insight into how Christianity may be viewed as threatening by non-believers!

So as you work through this course and material, prayerfully seek discernment and measure what you read against the truth found in the Bible. Consider and accept what aligns and reject that which is contrary to the truth of God. We will work together to develop and hone this discernment as it is very much needed as we seek to understand and reach the Japanese. 

Also worthy of note is the author's use of the word "cult". He does not use it with the same meaning as a Christian in 2023 might! The author's use of the word denotes: "a system of religious veneration and devotion directed towards a particular figure or object."