Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of 'alms' is most commonly expressed through religious or charitable giving, often using specific Buddhist or Christian terms. The most natural translation depends heavily on context: whether it's a religious donation, charity to the poor, or a historical reference.
Money or food given to monks or temples as a religious act.
The most common term for a monetary offering given to a Buddhist monk or temple, especially at funerals or memorial services.
お葬式でお布施を渡しました。
I gave an offering at the funeral.
A Buddhist term for almsgiving, emphasizing the joy of giving without attachment. More formal and less common in daily speech.
喜捨の心が大切です。
The spirit of joyful giving is important.
Money, food, or goods given to help the needy.
General term for charity or alms given to the poor. Can sound slightly old-fashioned or literary.
彼は貧しい人々に施しをした。
He gave alms to the poor.
Refers to charity or philanthropy in a broader sense. Often used in compounds like 慈善活動 (charitable activities).
Specifically refers to relief money or donations for disaster victims. Not used for general alms.
Money given during a church service or to the church.
The standard term for a monetary offering in Christian churches.
毎週、教会で献金をしています。
I give an offering at church every week.
Though originally Buddhist, it can be used in Christian contexts to refer to almsgiving, but 献金 is more common.
喜捨は信仰の一部です。
Almsgiving is part of faith.
Alms in a historical, medieval, or literary context.
Literally 'things given as charity'. Used in historical or story settings.
旅の僧は村人から施し物を受けた。
The traveling monk received alms from the villagers.
Refers to the traditional Buddhist practice of monks begging for alms. Not used for general charity.
The English word 'alms' is not commonly used in modern conversation. In Japanese, simply saying お金をあげる (give money) or 寄付する (donate) is often more natural unless a specific religious or charitable nuance is intended.
お布施 is specifically for Buddhist contexts (temples, monks, funerals), while 献金 is used in Christian contexts (church offerings). Using the wrong term can cause confusion.
Donate to a charity organization.
震災の義捐金を集めています。
We are collecting relief donations for the earthquake disaster.
僧侶が托鉢に出かける。
The monk goes out for alms-begging.