Translation guide
A name given to a person after death, often reflecting their legacy, virtues, or status. In Japanese contexts, this includes Buddhist posthumous names (kaimyō), imperial posthumous names, and historical titles.
A name given to a deceased person in Japanese Buddhist tradition, inscribed on the grave marker and used in memorial services.
The standard term for a Buddhist posthumous name. It is given by a priest and reflects the deceased's spiritual status. Often includes characters indicating gender, virtue, and rank.
My grandmother's kaimyō is 'Seikōin Shakuni Myōchi'.
Used in some Buddhist sects (e.g., Jōdo Shinshū) instead of kaimyō. It is a religious name given after death, but the term emphasizes the Dharma name aspect.
The name given to a deceased emperor, often reflecting the era name or a descriptive title.
The general term for a posthumous name given to an emperor or high noble. It can be a descriptive title or based on the era name.
A name or title given after death to honor a person's achievements, used for warriors, scholars, or artists.
A posthumous title or honorary name given to a person of high status, such as a samurai or scholar. It is often used in historical records.
Referring to the concept of a posthumous name in non-Japanese contexts, such as Chinese or Korean traditions.
The same term can be used for Chinese or Korean posthumous names, as the concept is similar. Context usually clarifies the culture.
戒名 (kaimyō) is used in most Buddhist sects, while 法名 (hōmyō) is preferred in Jōdo Shinshū. Both refer to a posthumous Buddhist name, but the terminology reflects sectarian differences.
浄土真宗では戒名ではなく法名を授かります。
In Jōdo Shinshū, one receives a hōmyō instead of a kaimyō.
Emperor Meiji's posthumous name is 'Emperor Meiji'.
Specifically refers to a posthumous title or name given to an emperor, often used in historical contexts. It can also apply to other high-ranking figures.
Emperor Kanmu's posthumous title is 'Kanmu'.
Tokugawa Ieyasu's posthumous title is 'Tōshō Daigongen'.
A more general term for a posthumous name, often used for non-imperial figures. It can be synonymous with 諡 (okurina) but is less formal.
His posthumous name was given as 'Seichū'.
Chinese emperors were also given posthumous names.
Kaimyō is used in Zen and Tendai sects, while hōmyō is used in Jōdo Shinshū.
Posthumous names are deeply rooted in East Asian traditions. In modern Japan, the most common encounter with this concept is through Buddhist funeral practices. When discussing historical figures, use 諡 (okurina) or 諡号 (shigō).