Translation guide
Refers to the policy or process of separating Shinto and Buddhism, which were syncretized for centuries in Japan. Most commonly used in historical contexts, especially the Meiji period's shinbutsu bunri.
To refer to the official government policy during the Meiji era that forcibly separated Shinto shrines from Buddhist temples, often leading to the destruction of Buddhist artifacts.
To discuss the idea or process of dividing the two religions, not necessarily tied to a specific historical event.
When discussing the Meiji period, 神仏分離 is almost always the appropriate term. It is deeply tied to the modernization and nationalization of Shinto.
The standard term for the separation of Shinto and Buddhism, especially referring to the Meiji period policy.
The Meiji government issued the separation edict.
Another name for the edicts that enforced the separation. More formal and historical.
Many temples were destroyed due to the separation edicts.
Can also be used in a broader sense to describe any separation of Shinto and Buddhist elements.
The movement to separate Shinto and Buddhism was an important turning point in Japanese religious history.
Literally 'dissolution of Shinto-Buddhist syncretism', a more academic phrase.
The dissolution of Shinto-Buddhist syncretism changed a long-standing form of faith.