Translation guide
The concept of divinity in Japanese is expressed through words for gods, divine nature, and sacredness, with strong ties to Shinto and Buddhist traditions. The most common term is 神 (kami), but the best choice depends on context: whether you mean a specific deity, the quality of being divine, or a field of study.
Referring to a divine being, especially in polytheistic contexts like Shinto.
The most common word for a god or deity in Japanese, used for Shinto kami, gods of other religions, and even metaphorical 'gods' (e.g., a genius). Can be singular or plural.
日本には八百万の神がいると言われている。
It is said that there are eight million gods in Japan.
彼はギリシャ神話の神々について研究している。
He studies the gods of Greek mythology.
A polite, affectionate, or reverent way to say 'god'. Often used in prayers, children's speech, or when personifying a deity. The suffix 様 adds respect.
Refers specifically to a Buddha or a deceased person who has attained Buddhahood. Not a general term for divinity.
Describing the divine nature, essence, or godliness of a being or thing.
The abstract quality of being a god; divine nature. Used in theological or philosophical contexts.
キリストの神性について議論する。
They discuss the divinity of Christ.
Divine status or the rank of a deity. Often used when talking about deification or the hierarchy of gods.
Sacredness or holiness, emphasizing purity and inviolability. More about the quality of being sacred rather than being a god.
この場所の神聖さを感じる。
I feel the divinity (sacredness) of this place.
Referring to the academic discipline of theology.
Theology as a field of study. Commonly used in academic contexts.
彼は大学で神学を専攻している。
He is majoring in divinity (theology) at university.
Using a more formal or literary term for a god or deity.
A formal term for gods or divine spirits, often used in Shinto contexts or classical literature.
神明の加護を祈る。
Pray for the protection of the gods.
The Supreme Deity or God of Heaven, used in some religious or mythological contexts (e.g., Chinese mythology).
While 神 can refer to the Christian God, in Japanese Christianity, the term 神様 is often preferred for the monotheistic God, especially in prayer. Using just 神 might sound too generic or Shinto-influenced.
神様、お助けください。
God, please help me.
神 is the basic word for god/deity. 神様 adds the honorific suffix 様, showing respect or affection. Use 神様 when addressing a god directly, in prayers, or when speaking reverently. 神 is neutral and can be used in academic or general contexts.
神様にお祈りをした。
I prayed to God.
お寺で仏像を拝んだ。
I worshiped a Buddha statue at the temple.
天皇は神格を持つと信じられていた。
The emperor was believed to possess divinity.
天帝が世界を創造した。
The Supreme Deity created the world.