供養

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 供養 (くよう) is a noun that also forms a する verb for a memorial or commemorative rite honoring the dead or a valued object.
• Basic usage: It can refer to remembering a deceased relative or holding a temple ceremony for old dolls.
  • 家族で祖父の供養を行った。 — We held a memorial service for my grandfather as a family.
  • 寺で古い人形の供養が行われた。 — The temple held a ceremony to honor old dolls.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Rites for people and objects
  • The object of 供養 may be a deceased person or an object with long use or special significance, such as a doll; context identifies the particular rite.