Translation guide
In Buddhism, the state between death and rebirth is called 中有 (chūu) or 中陰 (chūin). It is a period of up to 49 days where consciousness exists in a subtle body, seeking rebirth. This concept is primarily religious and may not have a direct equivalent in secular contexts.
The period between death and the next rebirth in Buddhist doctrine, lasting up to 49 days.
The standard Buddhist term for the intermediate state between death and rebirth. Used in doctrinal contexts.
中有は四十九日間続くとされる。
The intermediate state is said to last for 49 days.
A non-technical, metaphorical, or literary reference to a state between death and what comes next, not strictly Buddhist.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'state between death and rebirth'. Used when explaining the concept in plain language.
彼は死と再生の間の状態についての夢を見た。
He dreamed of a state between death and rebirth.
This is a specialized Buddhist term. In everyday conversation, Japanese speakers rarely refer to this state. If you are not discussing Buddhist doctrine, consider whether a simpler phrase like 死後の世界 (the afterlife) might be more appropriate.
When talking about Buddhist memorial services, 中陰 is more common than 中有. 中有 is more doctrinal.
Another common term for the intermediate state, often used in the context of memorial services.
中陰の期間中、遺族は法要を行う。
During the intermediate state period, the bereaved family holds memorial services.
Tibetan Buddhist term (bardo) sometimes used in Japanese contexts, especially in discussions of the Tibetan Book of the Dead.
チベット仏教では、死後バルドを経て転生すると説く。
Tibetan Buddhism teaches that after death one passes through the bardo and then is reborn.
Literally 'the interval after death', a more literary or poetic expression for a liminal post-death state.
魂は死後の狭間をさまよっていた。
The soul wandered in the interval after death.