Definition
在天之灵 is a set phrase used to refer to the soul or spirit of a deceased person, often in expressions of respect, condolence, or a wish for the departed soul to rest in peace or bless the living. It literally means 'spirit in heaven' and is culturally weighted — you hear it in eulogies, memorial contexts, and when someone vows to fulfill a deceased person's wishes (告慰在天之灵). The phrase is fixed; do not separate or modify it.
n.
(noun phrase) the spirit of the deceaseddeparted soul (used in respectful or commemorative contexts)
Examples
- 在天之灵，。Wǒmen gàowèi zài tiān zhī líng, nín ānxī ba.We pay tribute to your departed soul — may you rest in peace.
- 在天之灵。Yuàn zài tiān zhī líng bǎoyòu wǒmen yíqiè shùnlì.May the spirit of the departed bless everything to go smoothly for us.
- ，在天之灵。Wǒmen yào jìchéng tā de yízhì, yǐ gào zài tiān zhī líng.We must carry on his unfinished aspirations, so as to comfort his soul in heaven.
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