平家
へ
い
け
Meanings
1
Heike family; Taira clan
historical term
Historical term for the Taira clan, a major samurai family in the late Heian period. Often contrasted with 源氏 (Genji).
The conflict between the Heike and the Genji became the subject of many tales.
2
abbreviation
Abbreviation of 平家物語 (Heike Monogatari), the classic war epic. Used in literary or historical contexts.
See also: 平家物語 (へいけものがたり)
"The Tale of the Heike" was passed down by biwa-playing minstrels.
3
chanting of the Heike Monogatari
abbreviation
Abbreviation of 平家琵琶 (Heike biwa), the musical narrative tradition of chanting the Heike story with biwa accompaniment.
See also: 平家琵琶 (へいけびわ)
He went to study under a master to learn the chanting of the Heike Monogatari.
Expressions
- 驕る平家久しからずpride goes before a fall; the proud Heike family does not last long
- 驕る平家は久しからずpride goes before a fall; the proud do not endure