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.
明治政府は神仏分離令を出した。
The Meiji government issued the separation edict.
Another name for the edicts that enforced the separation. More formal and historical.
神仏判然令により、多くの寺院が破壊された。
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.
神仏分離の動きは、日本の宗教史において重要な転換点だった。
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.
神仏習合の解消は、長い歴史を持つ信仰の形を変えた。
The dissolution of Shinto-Buddhist syncretism changed a long-standing form of faith.