Translation guide
The English word "scriptures" refers to sacred texts of a religion. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 聖書 (seisho) for the Christian Bible, but other terms exist for Buddhist, Shinto, or other traditions. The choice depends on the religious context.
Referring to the Christian Bible as a whole or its contents.
The standard term for the Christian Bible. Used in both religious and secular contexts.
I read the scriptures every morning.
The words of the scriptures have influenced many people.
Loanword from English 'Bible'. Often used in casual or non-religious contexts, or when referring to the Bible as a cultural artifact.
This book is called the bible of cooking.
Referring to the sacred texts of Buddhism.
General term for Buddhist scriptures or sutras. Can also refer to sacred texts of other religions in academic contexts.
There are many Buddhist scriptures.
Honorific term for Buddhist sutras, commonly used in everyday speech, especially in the context of chanting or funerals.
Formal term for Buddhist scriptures, often used in academic or religious studies.
Referring to holy books or scriptures of any religion, or in a generic sense.
General term for sacred scriptures or holy books of any religion. Can be used for the Bible, Quran, Vedas, etc.
The scripture of Islam is the Quran.
Refers to the canonical texts of a religion. Slightly more formal and often used in academic or comparative religion contexts.
Referring to scriptures or sacred texts specific to Shinto or Japanese spiritual traditions.
Term for Shinto scriptures or sacred texts, such as the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki.
The Kojiki is one of the Shinto scriptures.
聖書 (seisho) almost always means the Christian Bible. 経典 (kyōten) is primarily Buddhist scriptures but can be used generically in academic contexts. 聖典 (seiten) is the safest generic term for 'scriptures' of any religion. When in doubt about the religion, use 聖典.
The scripture of Christianity is the Bible.
Using 聖書 to refer to Buddhist or Hindu scriptures would be incorrect and confusing. Always match the term to the religious tradition.
He chants the scriptures every day.
The monk chanted the scriptures.
仏典の研究は奥が深い。
The study of Buddhist scriptures is profound.
Many religions have scriptures.
各宗教の教典を比較する。
Compare the scriptures of each religion.