Meaning and Usage
The verb 拝む (おがむ) primarily means "to worship" or "to pray," often involving a gesture of respect such as putting hands together or bowing. It is commonly used in religious contexts, such as praying at shrines or temples.
Common Contexts
You will often hear 拝む when people talk about praying to gods, Buddha statues, or other sacred objects. It can also be used metaphorically to express deep respect or admiration.
Collocations and Patterns
- 拝む (おがむ) + 神社/神様/仏像: to pray at a shrine, to gods, or Buddha statues.
- 手を合わせて拝む: to put hands together and pray.
- 成功を願って拝む: to pray wishing for success.
Register and Politeness
拝む is a polite and somewhat formal verb, often used in respectful or religious contexts. It is more formal than simply praying (祈る) and carries a nuance of reverence.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 拝む with 祈る (いのる), which also means "to pray." However, 拝む often implies a physical gesture of worship or respect, while 祈る focuses more on the act of praying or making a wish silently or verbally.