How do we use DARUMA “達磨” ??

Daruma

A Happy New Year 2024

The Daruma doll tradition involves making a wish or setting a specific goal when you acquire the doll. Here are the general steps associated with making a Daruma wish:

  1. Acquire a Daruma Doll: Obtain a Daruma doll, which is typically purchased for this specific purpose. These dolls are available in various sizes and colors.

  2. Set a Goal or Make a Wish: Reflect on a specific goal you want to achieve or make a wish that is important to you. It could be related to personal development, career, relationships, health, or any other area of your life.

  3. Fill in One Eye: With a black marker or pen, fill in one of the doll’s eyes to symbolize the beginning of your journey toward achieving your goal or realizing your wish. This act represents your commitment and determination.

  4. Place the Daruma in a Visible Location: Display the Daruma doll in a prominent place where you can see it regularly. This serves as a visual reminder of your goal and helps you stay focused on your aspirations.

  5. Work Towards Your Goal: Take consistent steps and make efforts to work towards your goal. The Daruma doll serves as a motivating and supportive presence throughout your journey.

  6. Fill in the Second Eye upon Success: Once you have successfully achieved your goal or your wish has come true, fill in the other eye of the Daruma doll. This act symbolizes the completion of your objective and expresses gratitude for your accomplishment.

The Daruma doll tradition is a symbolic and meaningful way to approach goal-setting and personal development, emphasizing perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges.

The Colors

Daruma dolls come in various colors, and each color may have different symbolic meanings. While the traditional Daruma is red, you can find them in other colors as well. Here are some common colors and their associated meanings:

  1. Red: The most traditional color for Daruma dolls. Red is often associated with good luck, protection, and warding off evil.

  2. White: White Daruma dolls are associated with purity, happiness, and positive beginnings. They are often used for general good luck.

  3. Gold: Gold Daruma dolls symbolize wealth, prosperity, and financial success. They are often chosen when the goal or wish is related to financial matters.

  4. Green: Green Daruma dolls are associated with health, growth, and overall well-being. They are chosen for goals related to physical or mental health.

  5. Yellow: Yellow Daruma dolls are linked to security, protection, and stability. They are often chosen when the goal is related to safety or stability in life.

  6. Purple: Purple Daruma dolls may symbolize self-improvement, personal development, and spiritual growth.

  7. Blue: Blue Daruma dolls can be associated with tranquility, peace, and emotional well-being.

The History

The history of the Daruma doll is closely tied to the legendary figure Bodhidharma, a Buddhist monk who is credited with founding Zen Buddhism. Here is an overview of the history of the Daruma doll:

  1. Bodhidharma and Zen Buddhism:

    • Bodhidharma, also known as Daruma in Japanese, is said to have lived in the 5th or 6th century and traveled from India to China.
    • He is credited with transmitting Chan Buddhism to China, which later evolved into Zen Buddhism in Japan.
  2. Origin of the Daruma Doll:

    • The Daruma doll is believed to have originated in the 17th century in the town of Takasaki in Gunma Prefecture, Japan.
    • According to legend, the idea for the Daruma doll came from the Daruma-dera temple in Takasaki, where monks would make rounded paper dolls as charms for protection.
  3. Symbolism of the Daruma Doll:

    • The round shape of the Daruma doll is said to be inspired by the Buddhist practice of making spherical paper charms.
    • The doll’s facial features are minimal, with a distinctive beard and eyebrows. The eyes are intentionally left blank, and individuals fill in one eye when setting a goal or making a wish.
  4. Goal-Setting Tradition:

    • The Daruma doll tradition involves setting a specific goal or making a wish and filling in one eye of the doll.
    • As the person works toward their goal, the Daruma doll serves as a visual reminder of their commitment and perseverance.
    • Upon achieving the goal or wish, the other eye is filled in as an expression of gratitude.
  5. Cultural Significance:

    • The Daruma doll has become a symbol of resilience, good luck, and the pursuit of goals in Japanese culture.
    • It is often used at the beginning of the year for New Year’s resolutions and is considered a popular gift of encouragement.

The Daruma doll has a rich cultural and spiritual significance in Japan, embodying the principles of perseverance and determination associated with Zen Buddhism. It continues to be a widely recognized and used symbol in various aspects of Japanese life.

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