Here the relationship is less hierarchical than in the Western conception. This worldview involves an almost material, causal relationship with 'God'.
This fault ( tsumi) activates the punishment or ( tatari), which one can ward off by purifying oneself ( harau). These deities and spirits are each animated by beneficial powers or/and a 'spirit of violence' that can be awakened if ever one encroaches on their domain or if one is guilty of a related fault with their field of action.
