Translation and Meaning of: 判事 - hanji

The Japanese word 「判事」 (hanji) refers to a judge, an important figure in the judicial system responsible for adjudicating cases and making legal decisions. The term is composed of two kanji: 「判」, which denotes judgment or decision, and 「事」, which means matter or issue. The combination of the two characters conveys the idea of someone who professionally deals with the judgment of legal or judicial matters.

Exploring the etymology, the kanji 「判」 (han) has its roots in the sense of distinguishing, judging, or deciding. This character is often associated with actions that require discernment and careful judgment. The 「事」 (ji), in turn, is used to indicate events, matters, or situations. When combined, they create a word that encapsulates the act of judging matters of legal and social importance, a central role played by a 「判事」 in the court.

The word 「判事」 has a rich history associated with the Japanese legal system, which was influenced by Western civil law systems during the modernization process in the late 19th century. Before that, Japan had a strictly feudal and clan-based system of administering justice. With the Meiji Restoration, Japan began to incorporate elements of French and German law, which influenced the functions and structure of the role of judges, known as 「判事」. This role is now a vital part of the contemporary Japanese judiciary, ensuring that justice is administered fairly and impartially in the country's courts.

Variations and Correlations of the Word

• "裁判官" (saibankan): Refers to a similar authority, highlighting the role in trials.
• "Trial" (saiban): This term refers to the judicial process or trial itself, in which the "judge" (判事) plays a key role.
• 「判決」 (hanketsu): Means verdict or decision, one of the main duties of a 「判事」.

In summary, the role of a 「判事」 is fundamental to maintaining order and justice within the Japanese legal system. The historical transition and adaptation to the current system reflect the ongoing importance of this role in shaping justice and ensuring it is carried out adequately and effectively in Japan. With the advancement of multicultural law, the role of the 「判事」 may also involve interpretations of legal issues that cross cultural and legal boundaries.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 裁判官 (Saibankan) - judge
• 裁判所の人 (Saibansho no hito) - Court person
• 裁判員 (Saiban'in) - Jury member
• 裁判官さん (Saibankan-san) - Mr./Mrs. Judge (respectful form)
• 裁判官様 (Saibankan-sama) - Ilustre judge (honorific form)
• 裁判官先生 (Saibankan-sensei) - Judge professor (respectful form addressed to judges)
• 裁判官殿 (Saibankan-dono) - Your Honor
• 裁判官候補生 (Saibankan kōhosei) - Candidate for judge
• 裁判官志望者 (Saibankan shibōsha) - Person who wants to be a judge