慈善

• Reading: じぜん
• Romaji: jizen
• Kanji breakdown: 慈 (ji) — compassion, mercy; 善 (zen) — goodness, virtue
• Pronunciation: /dʑi.ze.ɴ/

Meaning

Charity; philanthropy; benevolence. Acts of giving or kindness towards those in need, often through organised donations.

A noun used to describe charitable acts and organisations. 慈善 is broader than 寄付 (kifu, donation) as it encompasses the spirit of benevolence and goodwill underlying the act. It appears in compounds such as 慈善団体 (charity organisation), 慈善事業 (charitable work), and 慈善家 (philanthropist). The concept has roots in Buddhist notions of compassion (慈悲, jihi).

Examples

1. 彼女は事業で成功した後、慈善活動に多くの時間を捧げている。 After succeeding in business, she has devoted much of her time to charitable activities.
2. 慈善団体への寄付は税制上の優遇措置を受けられる場合がある。 Donations to charitable organizations may qualify for tax benefits.
3. 慈善とは相手を哀れむことではなく、尊厳を守りながら支援することだ。 Charity is not about pitying the other person, but about providing support while preserving their dignity.

Usage Guide

Context: philanthropy, NGOs, social welfare, ethics

Tone: positive

Origin & History

From 慈 (ji) meaning 'compassion or mercy' (as in 慈悲, jihi) and 善 (zen) meaning 'goodness or virtue.' A compound reflecting Buddhist and Confucian ideals of benevolence.

Cultural Context

Era: Meiji–Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: All classes