1.
altar
A raised structure or table used for religious rituals, offerings, or memorial services. Used across religious traditions including Shinto, Buddhism, and Christianity.
祭壇に花を供える。
To place flowers on the altar.
教会の祭壇の前で誓いを立てた。
They made their vows before the altar of the church.
故人を偲んで、祭壇に写真と遺品が飾られていた。
In memory of the deceased, photographs and personal belongings were displayed on the altar.
USAGE:
Used broadly across religious contexts. In Japanese funerals, a 祭壇 is set up with the deceased's photograph, flowers, and offerings. Also refers to altars in churches, shrines, and temples.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 祭壇に供える: to make an offering at the altar
- 祭壇を設ける: to set up an altar
- 祭壇に手を合わせる: to put one's hands together (pray) at the altar
- 葬儀の祭壇: funeral altar