天院 · てんいん · priesthood

ten'in

A rank of priests associated with the imperial court.

Definition

Ten'in are priests traditionally connected to the imperial court, responsible for performing specific rituals or ceremonies that honor kami, particularly those related to the emperor and the imperial family. They played a vital role in ensuring that Shinto religious practices were integrated into the state rituals. This title reflects the close relationship between religion and the imperial institution in Japan's history.

Etymology

The term ten'in comprises 'ten' meaning 'heaven' and 'in' meaning 'house', indicating their celestial duties in relation to the imperial family.