Translation guide
The concept of God's will in Japanese is expressed through several terms that differ in religious context, nuance, and formality. The most common and neutral term is 神の意志, used in both Christian and general contexts. Other terms like 天命 and 神意 carry more traditional or literary connotations.
To refer to God's will in a neutral or Christian sense, as a divine plan or desire.
The most direct and common translation, used in Christian contexts and general discussions about a monotheistic God's will.
それは神の意志です。
It is God's will.
To live according to God's will.
A more reverent or literary expression, often used in Christian prayers or hymns. 御心 (みこころ) adds a sense of sacredness.
神の御心が天に行われるように。
May God's will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
A more abstract and formal term for divine will, often used in theological or philosophical discussions. Can apply to Shinto or general deity concepts.
神意を伺う。
To inquire into the divine will.
To express a sense of destiny or a higher power's plan, often in a non-Christian or traditional Japanese context.
Refers to the will of Heaven or a divine mandate, often used in Confucian or traditional contexts. Implies an unchangeable destiny.
More commonly means 'fate' or 'destiny' in a general sense, but can be used to imply a higher power's will, especially in dramatic or philosophical contexts.
To refer to God's will as communicated through a sign, oracle, or revelation.
Specifically means a divine oracle or revelation, often used in mythological or religious contexts.
神託を受ける。
To receive a divine revelation.
Means 'revelation' in a religious sense, often used in Christian theology for God's revealed will or truth.
神の啓示。
Divine revelation.
神の意志 is the standard term for God's will in a monotheistic (especially Christian) context. 天命 carries a more traditional East Asian sense of a heavenly mandate or destiny, often impersonal. Use 神の意志 for personal God, 天命 for fate or cosmic order.
In everyday conversation, directly saying 'God's will' may sound overly religious or unnatural. Japanese speakers often express similar ideas with phrases like 運命 (fate) or 仕方ない (it can't be helped) unless in a specifically religious context.
それは運命だった。
It was fate (God's will).