信仰

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: The written form is 信仰, read しんこう. Elements of belief and reverence combine to denote religious or spiritual faith and what it is directed toward.
• Basic usage: 山への信仰 marks the object toward which faith is directed, while 信仰を尊重する describes respecting beliefs that differ among people.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Faith directed toward an object
  • The old belief reflected in the festival is directed toward the mountain. Example: この祭りには山への古い信仰が表れている。 — This festival reflects an ancient belief centered on the mountain.
• Differing beliefs
  • The context recognizes that beliefs may differ from person to person and expresses a desire for mutual respect. Example: 人によって異なる信仰を互いに尊重したい。 — We would like to respect one another's different beliefs.