Japanese Proverbs

Every culture has its cultural peculiarities expressed in traditions, morals, outward symbols, and behaviors. In Japan, over many centuries, very specific views and values have developed, influenced by Buddhism, the culture of the Samurai, and the harsh life of the people in this land. This treasure trove shines from the hidden depths of the people with aptly formulated proverbs that also hold fascinating meanings for people in Europe and around the world. The following article revolves around selected Japanese proverbs and their significance in modern life. As the Japanese language doesn't always translate precisely into German, some of the quotes are to be read in a metaphorical sense.

Every culture has its cultural peculiarities expressed in traditions, morals, outward symbols, and behaviors. In Japan, over many centuries, very specific views and values have developed, influenced by Buddhism, the culture of the Samurai, and the harsh life of the people in this land. This treasure trove glimmers from the hidden depths of the people with aptly formulated proverbs that also hold fascinating meanings for people in Europe and around the world. The following article revolves around selected Japanese proverbs and their significance in modern life. Since the Japanese language doesn't always translate precisely into German, some of the quotes are to be read in a metaphorical sense.

What makes Asian proverbs so special?

Those who feel a love for Japanese culture will particularly appreciate the wisdom of quotes from Japanese literature and oral traditions. Many of these sayings have similar meanings in our language as well. Others sound new to us or offer an interesting perspective through the Asian context, which is less common here. Sometimes, there's a saying that is familiar to us in content, but it acquires a funnier or more logical context for us through a different environment or characters. With a Japanese proverb, love or friendship can be expressed in a very special way. Many hit directly to the heart or show seekers the path to happiness. Sometimes, the world can be improved with a kind word that encourages a friend and strengthens them on their journey. Eastern wisdom is ideal for creating a card with a saying on occasions such as:

• Birthday, wedding, engagement
• anniversaries
• personal successes
• company anniversaries
• just to bring joy

For those who like, they can select the original characters and present them in calligraphy with ink and a pen. This can become a creative hobby that stimulates the imagination and encourages mindfulness.

Beautiful Japanese Proverbs and Their Deeper Meaning

A proverb captures the essence of experiences that people have collected over a long period. Sometimes, one may think they know a thing, but it often turns out that there is much more behind the external appearance. Asian wisdom delves deeply into this and encourages children and adults to learn more about life, friendship, and love. The following beautiful examples illustrate this wonderfully.

• Even the child of a frog is a frog

As a German equivalent, the saying "The apple doesn't fall far from the tree" is known. It means that children resemble their parents in many ways, even if they don't always want to admit it. However, the frog saying is much more understandable because, as living beings, one would probably identify more with an animal than with a plant. A deeper wisdom would be that a frog is indeed a frog, but not all frogs are the same. The fable of the two frogs in the butter churn might fit well here.

• Even a monkey falls from a tree

Monkeys are masters of agility and climb to the highest treetops. However, it can also happen to these animals that a branch breaks or the wind misses the target during a jump. This wisdom could be interpreted as saying that no one is free from mistakes or minor clumsiness. Even the worst and strongest enemy will have a weak moment at some point. Even if one thinks they are at the peak of power, a fall can interrupt the flight. There is simply no permanent safety in life.

• The higher the tree, the more jealous the wind

This Japanese quote provides moral support for all people who do great things. They will have to deal with envious people and opponents. Knowing that these resistances grow with the size of the project can provide more composure. A Chinese saying with a similar meaning is: "A tall tree stands in the wind."

• If you don't polish a gem, it has no luster

Anyone who has ever compared a raw diamond to a cut brilliant knows exactly what this saying implies. The process of polishing is understood in Japan as the formation of character, skills, and knowledge. Japanese proverbs often deal with improving character and present the virtue of diligence as an important foundation for a successful life.

Japanese Proverbs on Love and Friendship

• A friend dispels a hundred worries.
• The most splendid flowers often bloom in secret.
• No road is long with a friend by your side.
• The flow of water and the paths of love have not changed since the times of the gods.
• Happiness comes to those who laugh.
• From too much love, easily comes a hundredfold hatred.
• The kindness of the father exceeds the height of the mountains; the kindness of the mother goes deeper than the sea.

A Saying for Every Occasion

For many situations in life, there is a beautiful Japanese quote or saying that reveals the background or possible solutions to problems. For example, the saying "Because bamboo is flexible, it fears not the storm" can encourage more flexibility in life. The quote "An old horse finds its way alone" can impart calmness in dealing with recurring tasks. In Japan, happiness is seen as a result of diligence. The quote "If you're already digging a well, dig until you find water" means one should never give up prematurely.

Many people love quotes that convey Japanese wisdom because they provoke thought with their unique sound. Perhaps it's worth looking for a book of expressions from China, Africa, or South America to broaden your horizons with wisdom from around the world.