Translation and Meaning of: 封建 - houken

Etimology of 「封建」 (houken)

The word 「封建」 is composed of two kanjis: 「封」 (hou) and 「建」 (ken). The kanji 「封」 originally means "seal" or "feudal," and is often associated with the concept of granting lands or domains in the form of vassalage. On the other hand, 「建」 means "to build" or "to establish." Together, these kanjis form the word that refers to the political and social system historically known as feudalism, in which lands were granted in exchange for services or loyalties.

Definition and Historical Use

The expression 「封建」 is used to describe the feudal system that prevailed in many parts of the world, including medieval Europe and Japan during the Kamakura and Muromachi periods. In Japan, this system was characterized by a rigid hierarchy, where feudal lords, or daimyos, had control over territories and vassals. The social and political structure of this period was centered on the possession and administration of land and the relationship between the lord and the vassal.

The Japanese Feudal System

Feudalism in Japan, related to the concept of 「封建」, differed in some aspects from its European counterpart. In Japan, power was not only in the hands of landowners but also involved a warrior class, the samurai, whose loyalty was maintained through codes of honor such as bushido. This system profoundly influenced the culture, social relations, and politics of Japan, contributing to the formation of its unique national and cultural identity.

Influences and Changes

Over the centuries, the 「封建」 system began to decline as new forms of governance and social structure emerged. The Meiji Restoration, for example, marked the end of the feudal system in Japan, replacing it with a more centralized and modern government structure, influenced by the West. This historical event was a significant turning point, reshaping the social and economic structure of the country.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 封建制度 (Hōken seido) - Feudal system, a social structure where land is owned by feudal lords and vassals work for them.
• 封建社会 (Hōken shakai) - Feudal society, the society organized around the feudal system and the relationships of vassalage.
• 封建主義 (Hōken shugi) - Feudalism, the doctrine or ideology that advocates for the social and political organization based on the feudal system.

封建

Romaji: houken
Kana: ほうけん
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: feudal

Meaning in English: feudalistic

Definition: Terms for social systems and forms of agricultural management in medieval Europe. Words related to patriarchy. Definition of Nagato.