Translation guide
The core doctrines and principles taught by the historical Buddha, Siddhārtha Gautama. In Japanese, this concept is most commonly expressed as 仏教 (Bukkyō) for the religion as a whole, or more specifically as 仏法 (Buppō) or 仏の教え (Hotoke no oshie) for the teachings themselves. The choice depends on context: general reference, doctrinal content, or a more personal, reverent tone.
Referring to Buddhism as a whole, its system of beliefs, or the body of teachings.
The standard term for Buddhism as a religion. It encompasses all teachings, practices, and traditions. Use this when speaking about Buddhism in a general sense.
仏教はインドで生まれました。
Buddhism originated in India.
彼は仏教を信仰している。
He believes in Buddhism.
Literally 'Buddha-dharma', this refers specifically to the teachings or law of the Buddha. It is more doctrinal and often used in religious or philosophical contexts.
仏法を学ぶために寺に行った。
I went to the temple to study the Buddha's teachings.
A more personal and reverent phrase meaning 'the Buddha's teachings'. It emphasizes the source (the Buddha) and is often used in everyday speech or when referring to moral guidance.
仏の教えは慈悲の心を大切にします。
The Buddha's teachings value a compassionate heart.
Referring to particular teachings, sermons, or canonical texts attributed to the Buddha.
Buddhist scriptures or sutras. This is the general term for the written records of the Buddha's teachings.
この経典は仏の教えを記しています。
This sutra records the teachings of the Buddha.
A more colloquial and respectful term for sutras, often used by laypeople. It can refer to the chanting of sutras as well.
祖母は毎朝お経を読んでいます。
My grandmother chants sutras every morning.
Literally 'Buddha's exposition', used in the titles of sutras to indicate they are the direct words of the Buddha. Not used in everyday conversation.
Referring to the fundamental principles like the Four Noble Truths or the Eightfold Path.
The foundation or root of the Buddha's teachings. Used when discussing the core doctrines.
仏の教えの根本は四諦です。
The foundation of the Buddha's teachings is the Four Noble Truths.
The essence or quintessence of the Buddha-dharma. A more formal and philosophical expression.
仏法の真髄は縁起の理法にある。
The essence of the Buddha's teachings lies in the principle of dependent origination.
Referring to the Buddha's advice on how to live ethically or mindfully.
To follow the Buddha's teachings. This phrase is used when talking about applying the teachings to daily life.
彼は仏の教えに従って、正直に生きている。
He lives honestly, following the Buddha's teachings.
The path of the Buddha, implying a way of life based on his teachings. Often used in a spiritual or poetic sense.
仏の道を歩むことは容易ではない。
Walking the path of the Buddha is not easy.
仏教 (Bukkyō) is the broad term for the religion. 仏法 (Buppō) is more doctrinal and often used in academic or sectarian contexts. 仏の教え (Hotoke no oshie) is a warmer, more personal expression suitable for everyday conversation about moral lessons.
仏教は世界三大宗教の一つです。
Buddhism is one of the three major world religions.
仏法を深く学ぶ。
To study the Buddha-dharma deeply.
仏の教えは心を豊かにする。
The Buddha's teachings enrich the heart.
The English word 'teachings' can be translated as 教え (oshie), but in Buddhist contexts, simply saying 教え without 仏の might be ambiguous. Always clarify the source unless it's clear from context.
仏の教えを聞く。
To listen to the Buddha's teachings.
The 'Buddha's Teaching on Amitabha Sutra' is often recited in Pure Land Buddhism.