Translation and Meaning of: 刑罰 - keibatsu

Explanation and Etymology - (刑罰) keibatsu

The word 「刑罰」 (keibatsu) is a Japanese term that refers to "punishment" or "penalty" in a legal or judicial context. This word is composed of two Kanji: 「刑」 (kei), which means "penalty" or "sentence," and 「罰」 (batsu), which translates as "punishment" or "penalty." The combination of these characters creates an expression that denotes the idea of a sanction imposed by an authority in response to a transgression of rules or laws.

Etymologically, the Kanji 「刑」 (kei) is related to the concept of justice and punishment, and it is common in terms that refer to aspects of the legal system. The radical of the Kanji 「刑」 is 刂, which symbolizes a knife or blade, suggesting the idea of cutting or penalizing. On the other hand, the Kanji 「罰」 (batsu) includes the radical 罒, which is associated with a net or web, evoking the idea of capture or restriction. This Kanji is often used to indicate punishments or penalties imposed by an authority.

In Japan, 「刑罰」 (keibatsu) encompasses various categories of sanctions, which may include:

• "懲役" (chōeki) — imprisonment or forced labor;
• "「罰金」 (bakkin) — financial fine;"
• 「死刑」 (shikei) - capital punishment or death penalty;
• "執行猶予" (shikkō yūyo) — conditional release.

In Japanese society, the concept of 「刑罰」 (keibatsu) is not just a matter of punishment, but also of correction and rehabilitation. The Japanese judicial system emphasizes the re-education and reintegration of offenders into society. This approach is reflected in rehabilitation practices that are an integral part of the sanctions in some situations, aiming not only to punish but also to improve the conduct of the convicted.