also: がいじん
noun
outer sanctum; nave; transept
In Buddhist temple architecture, the area outside the inner sanctum (内陣) where worshippers gather. Also used for the nave or transept in Christian church architecture.
See also: 内陣
参拝者は外陣でお経を聞く。
Worshippers listen to the sutra in the outer sanctum.
この教会の外陣はとても広い。
The nave of this church is very spacious.
内陣 is the inner sanctum, the most sacred area where the main object of worship is enshrined, while 外陣 is the outer area for worshippers.
Compound of 外 (outside) and 陣 (camp, position), referring to the outer area of a temple layout.