Japanese meaning of 知らぬが仏
Reading:
しらぬがほとけ (shiranu ga hotoke)
English Translation:
Ignorance is bliss
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
Sometimes not knowing the truth can be more comfortable.
Cultural Context:
Reflects the idea that ignorance can protect peace of mind. Used mainly in casual conversation.
真実を知らない方が心が安らぐこともあるという意味。
事実を知らない方が心が平穏でいられるという考えを反映。主に日常会話で使われる。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
Shiranu ga hotoke (知らぬが仏) uses the structure:
• 知らぬ (shiranu) = classical negative form of the verb 知る (shiru, “to know”), meaning “not knowing”
• が (ga) = subject marker, here connecting the preceding phrase to the predicate in a nominative function
• 仏 (hotoke) = “Buddha” or “enlightened being” (noun)
This is an example of clause + が + noun, a pattern often used in proverbs to equate a state or action with a metaphorical concept.
Trap for English Speakers
May be misread as a literal Buddhist statement instead of the figurative “ignorance is bliss.”
Example
Basic Example
その噂は聞かないほうがいいよ。知らぬが仏。
It’s better not to hear that rumor—Ignorance is bliss.
Applied Example
裏ボスの行動パターン、初見なら知らないままのほうがワクワクする。知らぬが仏。
For the secret boss, going in blind makes it thrilling—Ignorance is bliss.