宗教を信仰する
shūkyō o shinkō suru
To practice a religion in Japanese is 宗教を信仰する (shūkyō o shinkō suru).
The phrase is used to describe following the specific beliefs and rituals of a particular religion. You may also use the noun 信仰 (shinkō) on its own to refer to one's religious faith or belief system.
What does it mean word for word?
The verb part, shinkō suru, literally means 'to believe in' or 'to have faith in'.
Which one should you use?
While 宗教を信仰する (shūkyō o shinkō suru) focuses on the act of faith and devotion, the alternative 宗教を持つ (shūkyō o motsu) is a more casual way to say someone 'has' a religion.
How do you pronounce it?
shūkyō o shinkō suru
Did you know?
- Many Japanese people may say they have no religion 無宗教 (mushūkyō) while still visiting shrines and temples to pray. This creates a cultural distinction between formal religious affiliation and the daily practice of spiritual customs.
- In Japan, it is common to 'practice' two different religions simultaneously. Many families follow Shintoism for birth and marriage rituals but turn to Buddhism 仏教 (bukkyō) for funeral rites.
- While English uses 'practice' for both a religion and a piano, Japanese uses 信仰する (shinkō suru) for faith and 練習する (renshū suru) for skill. Using the latter for religion would sound like you are rehearsing a performance.
Examples in context
- 私はイスラム教を信仰しています。I have faith in Islam.
- 彼は神道を守っている。He keeps to Shintoism.
- 特定の宗教を信仰する人は多い。Tokutei no shuukyou o shinkou suru hito wa ooi.There are many people who practice a particular religion.
- 新しい宗教を信仰するのは難しいことです。Atarashii shuukyou o shinkou suru no wa muzukashii koto desu.It is difficult to practice a new religion.
