thủ từ

Thủ từ đang quét sân đền vào buổi sáng.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • Temple keeper / Temple guardian: A person whose duty is to guard, maintain, and oversee the daily operations of a temple or shrine. This role often involves ritualistic responsibilities and caring for the sacred space.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Ông thủ từ mở cửa đền mỗi sáng sớm. (The temple keeper opens the temple gates every early morning.)
  • Thủ từ lo việc hương khói và giữ gìn sự tôn nghiêm nơi thờ tự. (The temple guardian takes care of the incense and maintains the solemnity of the worship place.)

Advanced Usage

• The term "thủ từ" is specific to traditional Vietnamese places of worship, such as temples dedicated to national heroes, deities, or ancestors. It implies a role combining custodial duties with religious observance.

Variants and Related Words

• Từ giữ (n): An older or less common term with a similar meaning of temple keeper.
• Người trông coi đền (n phr): A descriptive phrase meaning "person in charge of the temple."

Synonyms

• Custodian: A person who has responsibility for or looks after something, especially a building.
• Carekeeper: One who keeps care of a place.
• Sacristan: A person in charge of a sacristy and church ceremonial equipment (closest Western religious equivalent).

Related Terms

• Đền (n): Temple, shrine (the place a guards).
• Miếu (n): Shrine, small temple (a similar place that may have a keeper).