Question

1. what does the expression mean, born shinto, die a buddhist?

eventually every follower of shinto converts to buddhism.
shinto is a religion only for young people.
shinto has birth rituals, but death rituals are usually buddhist.
those who follow shinto do not believe the body dies.

Explanation:

Shinto is Japan's indigenous religion, often associated with birth - related rituals. Buddhism, which was introduced to Japan, has had a significant influence on death - related rituals. The expression "Born Shinto, die a Buddhist" reflects this common practice in Japanese culture where Shinto is involved in life - starting events (like birth) and Buddhism in end - of - life (death) rituals. It does not mean universal conversion (as not everyone converts), nor that Shinto is only for the young, and Shinto followers do believe in physical death.

Answer:

Shinto has birth rituals, but death rituals are usually Buddhist.