Translation guide
A Buddhist concept referring to the endless cycle of birth, death, and rebirth driven by karma. In Japanese, it is most commonly expressed as 輪廻 (rinne) or 輪廻転生 (rinne tensei).
Referring to the concept of repeated birth and death in Buddhism.
The standard Buddhist term for the cycle of rebirth. It is widely understood and used in both religious and secular contexts.
輪廻からの解脱を目指す。
Aim for liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
A compound emphasizing both the cycle (輪廻) and the transmigration of the soul (転生). Often used in more detailed explanations.
輪廻転生の考え方は仏教の基本です。
The idea of transmigration is fundamental to Buddhism.
Literally 'birth and death', used in Buddhist contexts to refer to the cycle of life and death. More abstract and less common in everyday speech.
生死の海を渡る。
Cross the sea of birth and death.
Focusing on the movement of a soul or consciousness from one body to another.
Specifically means 'transmigration' or 'reincarnation'. Often used in compounds like 輪廻転生.
彼は前世の記憶を持つ転生者だと言われている。
He is said to be a reincarnated person with memories of a past life.
Referring to the six domains within the cycle of rebirth.
The cycle of rebirth through the six realms: hell, hungry ghosts, animals, asuras, humans, and devas. A core Buddhist concept.
六道輪廻の図が寺に飾ってあった。
A diagram of the six realms of rebirth was displayed at the temple.
Short for the six realms. Often used in discussions of Buddhist cosmology.
六道を輪廻する。
Transmigrate through the six realms.
In casual conversation, 生まれ変わり is more natural than 輪廻, which can sound academic or religious. Use 輪廻 when discussing Buddhist doctrine explicitly.
輪廻 emphasizes the cycle itself, while 転生 focuses on the act of being reborn. 輪廻転生 combines both nuances.
A more colloquial term for 'reincarnation' or 'rebirth'. Literally 'being born again'. Common in everyday conversation.
生まれ変わりを信じますか？
Do you believe in reincarnation?