Translation guide
Jizō (地蔵) is a beloved Buddhist deity in Japan, known as the protector of children, travelers, and the souls of the deceased. Statues of Jizō are commonly found along roadsides, in graveyards, and at temples, often wearing red bibs and caps.
Referring to the Buddhist bodhisattva Kṣitigarbha, known as Jizō in Japan, a protector of children, travelers, and the underworld.
The standard Japanese name for the deity. Often used with honorifics like お地蔵さん or お地蔵様 in everyday speech.
That shrine has many old Jizō statues.
Referring to the physical stone statues of Jizō, often seen wearing red bibs and caps, found along roads, in graveyards, and at temples.
The most common and affectionate way to refer to Jizō statues in daily conversation. The honorific prefix お and suffix さん add warmth.
There is a Jizō statue standing by the roadside.
A more formal or religious term for a Jizō statue, often used in temple contexts.
Describing customs related to Jizō, such as offering red bibs, caps, or toys, or the Jizō-bon festival for children.
A festival held in August, primarily in the Kansai region, to pray for the health and happiness of children. Jizō statues are decorated and offerings are made.
During Jizō-bon, children receive sweets.
The red bib often seen on Jizō statues, offered by parents praying for their children's health or in memory of a deceased child.
To put a red bib on a Jizō statue.
Referring to Jizō's role as the guardian of children, especially those who have died, including miscarried or aborted fetuses (水子).
A specific form of Jizō dedicated to the souls of miscarried or aborted children. Statues often have small toys or pinwheels.
To pray before a Mizuko Jizō statue.
When speaking casually or affectionately about Jizō statues, it's common to add お and さん (お地蔵さん) or 様 (お地蔵様). This reflects the warm, familiar relationship Japanese people have with Jizō.
In English, 'Jizō' is often used as a proper noun without translation. In Japanese, the word is deeply embedded in cultural and religious contexts. Avoid using it as a generic term for 'guardian deity' without explanation.
この地蔵尊は江戸時代に作られました。
This Jizō statue was made in the Edo period.