noun
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.
法然上人は浄土宗の開祖とされている。
Hōnen Shōnin is regarded as the founder of the Jōdo sect.
その寺には高名な上人が住
A renowned high priest lived in that temple.
suffix
Reverend; Venerable
Honorific suffix attached to the name of a high-ranking or respected Buddhist monk. Similar to 'Reverend' in English.
親鸞上人の教えは多くの人に影響を与えた。
The teachings of Shinran Shōnin influenced many people.
このお寺は空海上人ゆかりの地です。
This temple is a place associated with Kūkai Shōnin.