Translation guide
A philosophical belief in a creator who does not intervene in the universe, often contrasted with revealed religion. This concept is not native to Japanese culture, so learners must use borrowed terms or explanatory phrases.
The general concept of deism as a rational belief in a creator based on reason and nature, rejecting revelation and miracles.
The standard Japanese translation for deism, used in academic and philosophical contexts. Literally 'rational god theory'.
He is a deist.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'a deistic way of thinking', useful when explaining the concept rather than using the technical term.
His worldview is close to a deistic way of thinking.
Refers to natural theology, which shares similarities with deism in its emphasis on reason and nature, but is not a direct synonym. Used in historical or theological discussions.
Natural theology is based on reason, not revelation.
Referring specifically to the intellectual movement in Europe and America that emphasized a distant, non-intervening creator.
Contextualizes deism within the Enlightenment, making it clearer for Japanese audiences familiar with that historical period.
Enlightenment deism rejected miracles and revelation.
A straightforward temporal reference to 18th-century deism, useful in historical contexts.
Deism is a Western philosophical concept with no direct equivalent in traditional Japanese thought. Using the term 理神論 without explanation may not be understood by general audiences. Consider adding a brief explanation when first introducing the term.
Deism is the belief in a God who created the world but does not intervene afterwards.
In Japanese, both deism and theism can be translated as 理神論 and 有神論 respectively, but these terms are not widely known. 有神論 (ゆうしんろん) is the general term for theism, while 理神論 specifically denotes deism. When contrasting them, explain the difference in divine intervention.
18th-century deism influenced the American Declaration of Independence.
Theism accepts divine intervention, but deism rejects it.