1.
entering the priesthood, becoming a monk or nun
The act of leaving secular life to enter religious orders, particularly in Buddhism. Can also refer to a person who has done so.
若くして出家した。
He entered the priesthood at a young age.
武士が戦の後に出家することがあった。
It sometimes happened that warriors became monks after battle.
平清盛は晩年に出家して法名を名乗った。
Taira no Kiyomori entered the priesthood in his later years and took a Buddhist name.
A Buddhist term literally meaning "leaving home" (出 = leave, 家 = home/household). In Japanese history, many nobles and warriors took Buddhist vows, often for political reasons or after retirement.
The opposite is 在家 (lay person, remaining in secular life).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 出家する (to enter the priesthood)
- 出家得度 (taking the tonsure and ordination)
- 出家者 (one who has entered the priesthood)