Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'Benediction'

English Word: benediction

Key Russian Translations:

• благословение [bləɡəslɐˈvʲenʲɪjə] - [Formal, Often Religious or Ceremonial]
• благословление [bləɡəslɐˈvlʲenʲɪjə] - [Formal, Alternative Spelling, Same Usage]

Frequency: Medium (used in specific religious or formal contexts)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate - due to specific cultural and religious connotations)

Pronunciation (Russian):

благословение: [bləɡəslɐˈvʲenʲɪjə]

Note on благословение: Stress falls on the fourth syllable ('ve'). The soft 'н' sound ([nʲ]) can be challenging for non-native speakers.

благословление: [bləɡəslɐˈvlʲenʲɪjə]

Note on благословление: Similar pronunciation to the first variant, with a slight difference in spelling but identical stress and usage.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

1. A Prayer or Blessing (Religious Context)

Translation(s) & Context:

• благословение - Often used in religious ceremonies, such as a priest giving a blessing.

Usage Examples:

• Священник произнес благословение перед началом службы.

  The priest delivered a benediction before the start of the service.

• Мы получили благословение от епископа на брак.

  We received a benediction from the bishop for our marriage.

• Благословение родителей очень важно в нашей культуре.

  A benediction from parents is very important in our culture.

2. Expression of Good Wishes (Secular Context)

Translation(s) & Context:

• благословение - Used metaphorically to express approval or good wishes in a non-religious context.

Usage Examples:

• Его слова были как благословение для всей команды.

  His words were like a benediction to the entire team.

• Я дал свое благословение на этот проект.

  I gave my benediction to this project.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

благословение/благословление (Noun, Neuter Gender)

This noun follows the regular neuter noun declension pattern in Russian. Below is the declension table for singular and plural forms:

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

Synonyms:

• благословление (alternative spelling, identical meaning)
• напутствие (a farewell blessing or guidance, less religious)

Note: 'напутствие' is often used for secular or personal guidance rather than religious blessings.

Antonyms:

• проклятие (curse)

Related Phrases:

• дать благословение - to give a blessing (often parental or authoritative approval)
• просить благословения - to ask for a blessing (common in religious or family contexts)
• благословение на путь - a blessing for the journey (a traditional farewell wish)

Usage Notes:

• The Russian word 'благословение' is predominantly used in religious or highly formal contexts. In everyday speech, it might sound overly solemn unless referring to parental approval or a ceremonial blessing.
• Unlike the English 'benediction,' which can sometimes be used metaphorically in a light tone, the Russian equivalent carries a heavier, more serious connotation.
• Be mindful of the context when choosing to use this word, as it often implies a spiritual or authoritative act.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using 'благословение' in casual contexts where a simple 'good luck' or 'best wishes' is intended. Incorrect: "Я сказал благословение перед экзаменом." (I said a benediction before the exam.)
  Correction: Use 'удачи' (good luck) instead: "Я пожелал удачи перед экзаменом."
• Error: Mispronouncing the stress as [bləɡəˈslɐvʲenʲɪjə].
  Correction: The stress is on 've': [bləɡəslɐˈvʲenʲɪjə].

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, 'благословение' is deeply tied to Orthodox Christian traditions, often associated with priests or parental blessings during significant life events like weddings. It also reflects hierarchical respect, as receiving a blessing from an elder or authority figure is a sign of approval and goodwill.

Related Concepts:

• молитва (prayer)
• обряд (rite, ceremony)
• святость (holiness)