noun
A vertical structural member such as a pillar, post, or column in a building, gate, bridge, etc.
古い寺の柱に深い傷が残っている。
Deep scratches remain on the pillars of the old temple.
門の
We painted the gateposts white.
noun
mainstay; central support; prop
Figurative use for a person, industry, policy, idea, etc. that forms the central support of a group or system.
彼はチームの柱だ。
He is the mainstay of the team.
観光はこの町の経済の柱になっている。
Tourism has become the pillar of this town's economy.
suffix, counter
counter for deities and noble beings
A respectful counter used especially for gods and similar exalted beings; it appears after a number, as in 一柱 or 三柱.
この神社には三柱の神が祀られている。
Three deities are enshrined at this shrine.