Translation and Meaning of: 捧げる - sasageru

The Japanese word 捧げる [ささげる] carries a deep meaning and is often used in emotional or ceremonial contexts. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese. Additionally, we will understand how this word connects with Japan's cultural and philosophical values, making it a rich expression for language learners.

If you have encountered 捧げる in songs, animes, or formal texts, you know it goes beyond a simple translation. Here at Suki Nihongo, we aim to uncover not just the literal meaning, but also the nuances that make Japanese a fascinating language. Let's dive into the details of this word and discover how to use it correctly.

Meaning and usage of 捧げる

捧げる is a verb that means "to offer," "to dedicate," or "to consecrate." It is often used in situations where there is a symbolic giving, whether of something physical, like a gift, or abstract, like a feeling. For example, it can be used to express religious devotion, romantic love, or even sacrifice for a greater cause.

Unlike words like あげる (to give) or 贈る (to gift), 捧げる carries a more solemn and emotional tone. Its use is common in ceremonies, literature, and formal speeches. In everyday life, however, it appears less frequently, being reserved for special occasions where there is a strong meaning behind the action.

Origin and composition of kanji

The kanji 捧 is composed of the radical 扌(てへん), which indicates action with the hands, combined with 奉, which means "to offer" or "to serve." This combination reinforces the idea of a respectful delivery, often associated with rituals or demonstrations of reverence. Its origin dates back to classical Chinese, where the character already carried a sense of dedication.

It is worth noting that 捧げる is not an extremely common verb in daily life, but its presence in historical and artistic contexts is significant. In ancient texts, it often appears associated with religious offerings or acts of loyalty, reflecting values deeply rooted in Japanese culture.

"dedicate" in Japanese culture

In Japan, the idea of "offering" or "dedicating" is closely tied to concepts like 恩 (on, debt of gratitude) and 義理 (giri, sense of duty). 捧げる appears in contexts where there is recognition of something greater, whether it be a deity, an ideal, or a loved one. It is no surprise that the word is often used in songs and poems.

An interesting example is its use in Shinto ceremonies, where food and objects are 捧げられる (offered) to the kami (gods). This practice, called 供える (sonaeru), has a close relationship with 捧げる, although the latter is broader. In media, the word appears in titles of animes and dramas, usually linked to themes of sacrifice or unconditional love.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 捧げる

• 捧げます - polite form
• 捧げました - Past
• 捧げています - Present Continuous
• 捧げよう - imperative

Synonyms and similar words

• ささげる (sasageru) - To offer something in deference, usually before a deity or authority.
• 奉げる (togaeru) - To offer, with a sense of reverence, usually in more formal or ceremonial contexts.
• 献げる (sogeru) - To offer in devotion or as an act of generosity, often used for donations and dedicated services.
• 献上する (kenjō suru) - To present or offer something of value, especially in a context of respect or honor, such as a formal offering.

捧げる

Romaji: sasageru
Kana: ささげる
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: get up; to give; to offer; consecrate; to dedicate; to sacrifice; to dedicate

Meaning in English: to lift up;to give;to offer;to consecrate;to devote;to sacrifice;to dedicate

Definition: offer ~ as a gift. Dedicate.

Example Sentences - (捧げる) sasageru

See below some example sentences:

私は神に心を捧げる。

Watashi wa kami ni kokoro wo sasageru

I dedicate my heart to God.

• 私 (watashi) - personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - particle that indicates the theme of the sentence, in this case "I"
• 神 (kami) - noun that means "god"
• に (ni) - particle indicating the target of the action, in this case "to"
• 心 (kokoro) - noun that means "heart"
• を (wo) - particle that indicates the direct object of the action, in this case "to dedicate"
• 捧げる (sasageru) - verb that means "to dedicate"