Translation guide
The concept of transmigration, often referring to the soul moving from one body to another after death, is expressed in Japanese through specific religious and philosophical terms. The most common and broadly understood word is 輪廻 (rinne), which refers to the cycle of rebirth in Buddhism. Other terms are more technical or literary.
The general concept of the soul being reborn into a new life form after death, as part of the cycle of samsara.
The concept of transmigration is one of the central teachings of Buddhism.
A compound term emphasizing both the cycle (輪廻) and the rebirth (転生). It is often used in more detailed explanations or literary contexts.
A more literary or philosophical term meaning the cycle of life and death, emphasizing the continuous flow of existence. Rarely used in everyday conversation.
Understanding the principle of transmigration is one of the goals of the Buddhist path.
The specific act of a soul or consciousness transferring from one body to another, often at the moment of death or through mystical means.
Refers to rebirth or reincarnation, the soul taking on a new form. It can be used in both religious and fantasy contexts.
He claims to have been reborn with memories of his past life.
Specifically refers to a spirit or soul moving into and possessing a new body, often used in occult or supernatural contexts. Not a standard term for Buddhist transmigration.
This term implies possession rather than the natural cycle of rebirth. Use only when the context involves a spirit taking over a body.
輪廻 (rinne) refers to the entire cycle of death and rebirth, while 転生 (tensei) focuses on the single event of being reborn. In many contexts they overlap, but 輪廻 is more philosophical and 転生 is more concrete.
Aim for liberation from transmigration.
He transmigrated into a dog.
The English word 'transmigration' does not have a single direct equivalent in Japanese. Using a literal translation like 移住 (ijū, migration) would be incorrect in the context of souls. Always consider the intended meaning: rebirth, cycle of life, or soul transfer.
People who believe in transmigration live with an awareness of life after death.
A more colloquial term for reincarnation or transmigration, literally 'rebirth'. It is commonly used in everyday speech and stories.
That child seems like the transmigration of a cat.
Through the transmigration of a spirit, he became like a different person.