神主

• Reading: かんぬし
• Romaji: kannushi
• Kanji breakdown: 神 (kan/kami) — god, spirit, divine; 主 (nushi) — master, owner, chief
• Pronunciation: /kaɴ.nɯ.ɕi/

Meaning

Shinto priest. A clergy member who serves at and manages a Shinto shrine.

A noun for a priest who performs rituals and ceremonies at a Shinto shrine (神社, jinja). The kanji literally mean 'master of the gods.' Traditionally a hereditary role passed down within families, though modern 神主 undergo formal training and certification. Not to be confused with Buddhist priests (僧侶, souryo, or 住職, juushoku). Also called 神官 (shinkan) in more formal or historical contexts. Female Shinto priests exist but are less common.

Examples

1. 神主が祝詞を唱えて祭りが始まった。 The Shinto priest recited a ritual prayer and the festival began.
2. その神社の神主は代々同じ家系が務めている。 The role of Shinto priest at that shrine has been passed down through the same family for generations.
3. 友人は神主になるために専門の学校に通った。 My friend attended a specialized school to become a Shinto priest.

Usage Guide

Context: Shinto, shrines, religion

Tone: respectful

Origin & History

From Japanese: 神 (kami/kan, god/spirit) + 主 (nushi, master/owner). Literally 'master of the gods' — the person responsible for serving and communicating with the kami at a shrine.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal