also: あざり
noun
high monk; high priest
Honorific Buddhist term for a senior monk of exemplary conduct who serves as a role model for disciples. Abbreviation of 阿闍梨耶, from Sanskrit ācārya.
彼は比叡山の阿闍梨として多くの弟子を育てた。
As an ajari of Mount Hiei, he trained many disciples.
noun
initiate; formal rank in Tendai and Shingon
Specifically refers to a formal rank or title in the Tendai and Shingon schools of Japanese Buddhism, often conferred through the 伝法灌頂 (denbō kanjō) initiation ceremony.
See also: 伝法灌頂
彼は伝法灌頂を受けて阿闍梨の位を得た。
He received the denbō kanjō and attained the rank of ajari.
noun
monk who conducts religious services
A monk qualified to officiate at Buddhist ceremonies and rituals.
法要では阿闍梨が読経を担当した。
At the memorial service, the ajari was in charge of chanting the sutras.
Abbreviation of 阿闍梨耶 (ajariya), from Sanskrit ācārya meaning 'teacher' or 'preceptor'. Entered Japanese through Buddhist texts.