Translation and Meaning of: 百科事典 - hyakkajiten

Explanation and Etymology - (百科事典) hyakkajiten

The Japanese expression 「百科事典」 (hyakkajiten) refers to an encyclopedia, which is a comprehensive collection of information on a wide variety of topics. The etymology of the word is interesting and reflects the nature of what it represents. 「百」 (hyaku) means "hundred," but it is often used to imply "many" or "various." 「科」 (ka) translates as "subject" or "field of study." Finally, 「事典」 (jiten) means "dictionary" or "reference book," but it is specific to encyclopedias. Therefore, 「百科事典」 can be understood as a reference book on many subjects.

The concept of encyclopedias as 「百科事典」 is ancient and dates back to historical efforts in different cultures to gather human knowledge in an accessible format. In Japan, the development of such works began to take shape in a more systematic way during the Meiji Era, when the country was rapidly modernizing. During this period, there was a significant influx of Western ideas and technologies, and the creation of encyclopedias became an important way to disseminate this knowledge.

In terms of modern usage, 「百科事典」 remains relevant, especially in a digital age where instant access to information is crucial. Although online encyclopedias like Wikipedia have dominated the landscape, printed versions still hold significant documentary and educational value. They are seen not only as sources of information but also as historical artifacts that provide insight into how knowledge was organized and prioritized in past eras. Finally, it is important to note that 「百科事典」, in its essence, represents a commitment to lifelong learning and intellectual curiosity, reflecting an important aspect of Japanese culture that values education and collective wisdom.