Translation guide
A belief system involving communication with spirits of the dead, often through mediums. In Japanese, this is most commonly referred to as 心霊主義 (shinreishugi), but related terms like 降霊術 (kōreijutsu) for the practice of summoning spirits are also used.
Referring to Spiritism as a philosophical or religious doctrine, especially as codified by Allan Kardec.
The standard term for Spiritism as a doctrine or belief system. It directly translates to 'spirit principle/doctrine'.
He devoted his life to the study of Spiritism.
A direct loanword from English/French, used in academic or specific contexts to refer to Kardecist Spiritism.
Spiritism originated in 19th-century France.
Referring to the act or practice of summoning or communicating with spirits, often through a medium.
Literally 'art of summoning spirits'. This is the most common term for the practice of spirit invocation or necromancy, often used in occult contexts.
Special preparations are needed to perform spirit invocation.
An alternative kanji for the same word (降霊術), meaning 'art of communing with spirits'. Slightly less common but interchangeable.
A more general phrase meaning 'to summon a spirit'. Used in everyday conversation or fiction.
A traditional Japanese shamanic practice where a medium (itako) channels spirits, often the dead. Historically associated with blind female mediums in northern Japan.
Referring to a broader belief in spirits or the supernatural, not necessarily the codified doctrine.
心霊主義 (shinreishugi) refers to the doctrine or philosophy of Spiritism, while 降霊術 (kōreijutsu) refers to the actual practice or technique of summoning spirits. Use 心霊主義 when discussing beliefs, and 降霊術 when discussing actions or rituals.
Directly translating 'spiritism' as 精霊主義 (seireishugi) is not standard and may cause confusion. Stick to 心霊主義 or スピリティズム.
We spoke with spirits during a spirit communication session.
She claims she can summon spirits.
イタコの口寄せで先祖の声を聞いた。
Through the itako's spirit channeling, we heard the voice of our ancestor.
Loanword for 'spiritualism', often used in New Age contexts. Can overlap with Spiritism but is broader.
She is deeply into spiritualism.