noun
Often refers to a light or lamp used as a religious offering, such as at a shrine or temple. Can also refer to a lamp in general, but the religious connotation is strong.
See also: 御明かし
神社の灯明台に灯がともされた。
A light was lit on the shrine's lamp stand.
お盆には先祖の霊を導くために灯をともす。
During Obon, we light lamps to guide the spirits of our ancestors.
Honorific form of 灯, used specifically for sacred lights offered to gods or buddhas.
Derived from the verb 明かす (akasu, 'to light up'), with the noun form 明かし (akashi) meaning 'light' or 'lamp'. The kanji 灯 is commonly used for lamps and lights.