Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of a 'god of thunder' is most commonly expressed through the native Shinto deity Raijin, or through the Buddhist term Kaminari-sama. The choice depends on context: mythology, folklore, or everyday speech.
Referring to the thunder deity in Japanese mythology or Shinto belief.
The standard name for the god of thunder in Japanese mythology. Often depicted with drums.
雷神は太鼓を打ち鳴らす。
The god of thunder beats his drums.
A more personified, folkloric name, often used in stories or when speaking to children. Literally 'Mr./Ms. Thunder'.
雷様が怒っているよ。
The thunder god is angry.
Referring to a thunder god in a Buddhist context.
A Buddhist term for a thunder and lightning deity, less common than Raijin.
雷電は仏教の守護神の一つです。
Raiden is one of the guardian deities in Buddhism.
Expressing the idea of a god who controls thunder, without specifying a particular religion.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'god of thunder'. Can be used in any context.
ギリシャ神話では、ゼウスが雷の神です。
In Greek mythology, Zeus is the god of thunder.
While primarily the Shinto name, it can be used generically for 'thunder god' in some contexts.
北欧神話の雷神トール。
Thor, the Norse god of thunder.
雷神 (Raijin) is the formal, mythological name. 雷様 (Kaminari-sama) is a folksy, personified term often used with children or in casual speech.
雷神は古事記に登場する。
Raijin appears in the Kojiki.
ほら、雷様が来たよ。
Look, the thunder god is here.