Translation and Meaning of: 迷信 - meishin

The Japanese term 「迷信」 (meishin) is composed of two kanji: 「迷」 (mei) which means "confusion" or "lost" and 「信」 (shin) which means "belief" or "faith". Together, they form the word that designates "superstition". The combination of these characters suggests a belief that may be lost or confused, representing a way of understanding the world that is not based on concrete or rational evidence.

In the cultural history of Japan, superstitions have played a significant role, often reflecting the fears and uncertainties of societies over time. Japan, with its rich tapestry of traditions and myths, is home to many superstitions that intertwine with the beliefs of Shintoism and Buddhism, contributing to the broad use of the term meishin. For example, the belief in spirits and ancestral souls influences many of the customs and traditions that persist to this day.

Since ancient times, superstitions have manifested in various forms in Japan, ranging from simple beliefs about luck to more complex traditions involving natural events and their spiritual interpretations. Some of these superstitions may include:

• The belief that numbers like four (四, shi), which sounds similar to the word "death" (死, shi), bring bad luck.
• The practice of not sleeping with your head facing north, associated with the position of the dead in traditional funerals.
• The tradition of knocking on wood to ward off evil spirits, similar to other cultures, but with its own context and cultural significance.

Thus, "meishin" is not just a word, but a window into the cultural traditions, beliefs, and mindsets that shape Japan. Even in the modern world, where science predominates, these superstitions continue to have a significant cultural presence, highlighting the contrast and coexistence between logical reasoning and traditional beliefs. They are a rich tapestry of myths and traditions that continue to influence Japanese life and culture.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 迷信 (まいしん) - Belief in superstitions; practices based on non-rational beliefs.

迷信

Romaji: meishin
Kana: めいしん
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: superstition

Meaning in English: superstition

Definition: Beliefs and legends without scientific basis.

Example Sentences - (迷信) meishin

See below some example sentences:

迷信は現代社会においても存在する。

Meishin wa gendai shakai ni oite mo sonzai suru

Susumbers also exist in modern society.

• 迷信 (meishin) - superstition
• は (wa) - Topic particle
• 現代社会 (gendai shakai) - Modern society
• においても (ni oite mo) - even in
• 存在する (sonzai suru) - exist