Translation and Meaning of: 宝器 - houki

The expression 「宝器」 (houki) is composed of two kanji: 「宝」 which means "treasure" and 「器」 which refers to "instrument" or "utensil". Together, they convey the idea of a "precious instrument" or "valuable object". In classical culture, this word can refer to artifacts or ceremonial instruments considered of great importance. The etymology traces back to usage in historical contexts, where such objects were revered and often passed down from generation to generation.

In the composition 「宝」 (hou), we find the radical 宀, which suggests a covered space, such as a house or a safe, symbolizing protection and security for treasures. The presence of this radical reinforces the idea of something that is kept with great care and respect. On the other hand, the kanji 「器」 (ki) has as its radical the part 容, which in turn can indicate a container or vessel, something that "contains" or "has capacity." This complements the idea of an object that is not only precious but also functional and usable in ceremonies.

Historically, 「宝器」 could refer to objects associated with royalty or figures of power within society, often made from precious materials like gold or jade. Such items were usually more than mere tools: they were symbols of authority and status, often adorned with meticulous details that reflected the high degree of skill of their craftsmen. In some cultures, these objects could also be regarded as possessing spiritual or mystical powers.

The variation in the use of the word over time is interesting to observe. In modern times, although 「宝器」 may still have connotations of reverence and respect, its usage in everyday life is rarer and generally restricted to historical or literary contexts. It may appear in texts that address cultural heritage, describing relics that continue to intrigue and inspire those who study them. Moreover, the preservation of these items is seen as crucial for the maintenance of cultural traditions and histories.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 容器 (Youki) - container
• 器具 (Kigu) - utensil
• 保存容器 (Hozon Youki) - Storage container
• 貯蔵容器 (Chozou Youki) - Long-term storage container
• 貯蔵器 (Chouzouki) - Preservation container
• 保存器 (Hozonki) - Container for storage
• 保存用容器 (Hozon You Youki) - Container for preserving items
• 保管容器 (Hokan Youki) - Storage container
• 収納容器 (Shuunou Youki) - Storage container (for organization)
• 保管器具 (Hokan Kigu) - Guard utensil
• 収納器具 (Shuunou Kigu) - Organization tool
• 貯蔵品用容器 (Chouzouhin You Youki) - Container for storage items

宝器

Romaji: houki
Kana: ほうき
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: Article or precious vessel

Meaning in English: treasured article or vessel;outstanding individual

Definition: A container for storing treasures.

Example Sentences - (宝器) houki

See below some example sentences:

この宝器は美しいですね。

Kono houki wa utsukushii desu ne

This jar is beautiful

This treasure is beautiful.

• この - demonstrative pronoun that means "this"
• 宝器 - noun meaning "vessel of treasure" or "receptacle of value"
• は - particle that marks the theme of the sentence
• 美しい - adjective meaning "beautiful" or "beautiful"
• です - Verb "to be" in polite form
• ね - particle indicating a rhetorical question or confirmation
• . - Period