般若

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 般若 is read as はんにゃ and can mean Buddhist wisdom or a demon mask used on a Noh stage.
• Basic usage: Its meaning is distinguished by whether the context discusses insight or a mask worn by an actor.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Referring to Buddhist wisdom
  • 般若: The monk explains it as wisdom that sees through the nature of things. Example: 僧は般若とは物事を見抜く智慧だと説いた。
• Referring to a Noh mask
  • 般若: An actor appears on stage wearing a demon mask. Example: 能の舞台で役者が般若の面を着けて現れた。