Translation guide
A sacred or godly essence, presence, or being. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through specific religious terms, often tied to Shintō or Buddhist contexts, and rarely as a single direct equivalent.
Referring to a divine being or kami in Japanese indigenous religion.
The general term for a god, deity, or divine spirit in Shintō. Can refer to any sacred being, including nature spirits and ancestral spirits.
この神社には山の神が祀られている。
A mountain deity is enshrined at this shrine.
A more formal term for a divine spirit or the spirit of a deity, often used in religious or literary contexts.
Pray for the protection of the divine spirit.
Describing a divine essence or holy presence, not necessarily tied to a specific religion.
Primarily used in Christian contexts for the Holy Spirit, but can refer to any holy or divine spirit.
The Holy Spirit descended.
A broad term for spirit, soul, or ghost. When combined with divine contexts, it can imply a divine spirit, but alone it is neutral.
Referring to an intangible divine quality, aura, or presence rather than a specific being.
Literally 'divine aura' or 'godly atmosphere'. Used to describe a sacred or mystical presence.
A divine aura hung over that place.
Spiritual aura or energy. Can be used for divine or mystical atmospheres, but also for ghostly presences.
Referring to celestial beings or protective deities in a Buddhist context.
Refers to devas or celestial beings in Buddhism, often considered divine spirits inhabiting heavenly realms.
Pray for the guidance of the divine beings.
Wisdom Kings, wrathful deities in esoteric Buddhism embodying divine power and protection.
There is no single Japanese word that directly and naturally translates 'divine spirit' in all contexts. The appropriate term depends heavily on the religious or cultural context. Using 神 (kami) is the safest general choice, but for Christian contexts, 聖霊 (seirei) is expected.
神 (kami) is the everyday word for a god or deity in Shintō. 神霊 (shinrei) is more formal and emphasizes the spiritual aspect. 聖霊 (seirei) is specifically the Holy Spirit in Christianity and should not be used for Shintō kami.
Honor the spirits of ancestors.
Feel a spiritual presence.
不動明王は力強い守護神です。
Fudō Myōō is a powerful guardian deity.