上人
しょ
う
に
ん
Meanings
1
high priest; virtuous monk; holy man
Buddhist term for a monk of high virtue or a saintly figure. Often used historically or in formal religious contexts.
Hōnen Shōnin is regarded as the founder of the Jōdo sect.
A renowned high priest lived in that temple.
2
Reverend; Venerable
Honorific suffix attached to the name of a high-ranking or respected Buddhist monk. Similar to 'Reverend' in English.
The teachings of Shinran Shōnin influenced many people.
This temple is a place associated with Kūkai Shōnin.