How Do You Spell TENJIN?

Pronunciation: [tˈɛnd͡ʒɪn] (IPA)

The word "tenjin" is a Japanese term that refers to a Shinto temple dedicated to the deity of scholarship, Sugawara no Michizane. The spelling of "tenjin" in English is represented as /ˈtɛn.dʒɪn/ using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable "ten" is pronounced as /tɛn/, and the second syllable "jin" is pronounced as /dʒɪn/. A common alternative spelling is "Tenmangu," which also refers to a Shinto shrine dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane.

TENJIN Meaning and Definition

1. Tenjin is a term that originated in Japan and typically refers to the deity known as Sugawara no Michizane. In Japanese mythology and folklore, Sugawara no Michizane is revered as the god of scholarship, literature, and calligraphy. He is often associated with academic and educational pursuits, and is worshipped by students and scholars seeking success in their studies and examinations.

   The term "tenjin" can also go beyond just the specific deity and encompass the entire concept or practice of worshipping gods or spirits related to education and learning. In this broader sense, it refers to the act of paying homage to deities or seeking their blessings and assistance in one's intellectual pursuits.

   As a result, the term "tenjin" is commonly used to refer to shrines dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane or other deities associated with education. These shrines are often visited by students and their parents, particularly during times leading up to important exams, to pray for academic success and seek divine inspiration.

   Moreover, "tenjin" can also be used more generally to describe any person or entity that is knowledgeable, learned, or has expertise in a particular field of study. It symbolizes a person who embodies intellectual excellence and cultivates wisdom.

   Overall, "tenjin" represents a rich cultural and religious concept in Japan, encompassing both a specific deity and the practice of seeking divine guidance and favor for educational success.

Common Misspellings for TENJIN

• dinjin

Etymology of TENJIN

The word "tenjin" is of Japanese origin and consists of two kanji characters: "ten" (天) meaning "heaven" or "god", and "jin" (神) meaning "deity" or "spirit". This term is commonly used in Japan to refer to the gods or deities enshrined at the Tenman-gū shrines, which are dedicated to the scholar and politician Sugawara no Michizane. The etymology is derived from a combination of the characters representing heaven and deity, indicating the connection between heaven and the revered spirits worshipped at these shrines.