The Daruma doll, a symbol of perseverance, luck, and goal-setting, is an iconic figure in Japanese culture. These round, hollow dolls are modeled after Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism, and hold deep cultural significance. If you’re considering purchasing a Daruma and participating in this age-old tradition, here’s everything you need to know.
When to Buy a Daruma Doll
Daruma dolls are often purchased at the beginning of a new year, making them a perfect gift to kickstart new resolutions or goals. Many people visit temples or shrines during New Year celebrations to buy a new Daruma. It’s also common to buy one for specific life milestones, such as starting a business, preparing for exams, or launching a personal project.
In Japan, some specific events where Daruma are sold include:
- Daruma Markets (Daruma Ichi): These are often held in early January or February at temples and shrines, such as the famous Daruma Market at Shorinzan Daruma-ji Temple in Gunma Prefecture.
- Special Occasions: Birthdays, weddings, or the start of a significant life chapter.
You don’t have to wait for a special occasion, though. Daruma dolls can be purchased anytime you’re ready to set a new goal.
The Meaning Behind the Daruma’s Eyes
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Daruma tradition is its blank eyes. When you buy a Daruma, both eyes are intentionally left unpainted. Here’s why:
- Left Eye: When you set your goal, you paint the left eye (from the doll’s perspective). This represents your commitment to achieving that goal.
- Right Eye: Once you’ve achieved your goal, you paint the right eye, symbolizing completion and gratitude.
How to Paint the Eyes
Painting the eyes of a Daruma is simple but deeply symbolic. Follow these steps:
Set a Clear Goal: Before painting the left eye, take a moment to reflect on what you truly want to achieve. It could be passing an exam, starting a successful business, or even a personal growth milestone.
Paint the Left Eye: Use a black marker or paintbrush to carefully fill in the left eye. As you do, visualize your goal and focus your intentions on achieving it. Traditionally, you would do this on a day significant to you, like New Year’s Day or your birthday.
Display the Daruma: Place the Daruma somewhere visible, like your desk or a family altar, as a constant reminder of your goal.
Paint the Right Eye: Once you achieve your goal, paint the right eye. This act signifies fulfillment and gratitude. It’s also customary to return your Daruma to a temple or shrine to give thanks and have it ceremonially burned in a Daruma Kuyo (doll-burning ceremony) to release its spirit.
Tips for Daruma Buyers
- Choose a Size: Daruma dolls come in various sizes. Smaller ones are ideal for personal goals, while larger ones are often used for significant achievements or group objectives.
- Colors Have Meaning: While the classic Daruma is red, symbolizing good luck and protection, other colors represent specific aspirations:
- Gold: Success and wealth
- White: Purity and new beginnings
- Black: Protection from bad luck
- Blue: Academic or career success
How to Return a Daruma to the Temple for Burning
Once you’ve achieved your goal or it’s time to make space for a new Daruma, it’s customary to bring the old one back to a temple for a Daruma Kuyo (doll-burning ceremony). This practice ensures that the spirit of the Daruma is respectfully released.
Steps to Return and Burn Your Daruma:
- Timing: Most people return their Daruma at the end of the year or during the New Year period to signify the closing of one chapter and the start of another.
- Find a Temple: Visit a temple or shrine where Daruma dolls are sold or where you originally purchased your doll. Many temples and shrines hold Daruma Kuyo ceremonies annually.
- Offer Gratitude: Before handing over your Daruma, take a moment to express gratitude for its role in helping you achieve your goal.
- Burning Ceremony: At the ceremony, the Daruma is burned along with other old Daruma dolls. The burning symbolizes purification and the release of any lingering energy from the doll. It’s also a way to show respect for the Daruma’s spiritual essence.
- Donation: It’s customary to offer a small donation when you return your Daruma. This helps support the temple and the ceremony.
Why Burn the Daruma?
In Japanese culture, objects like Daruma dolls are considered to hold a spirit or energy once they are used for a purpose. Disposing of them in a casual way is thought to be disrespectful. Burning the Daruma allows for its energy to be released and the cycle of intention and gratitude to be completed.
Starting the Cycle Anew
After returning your Daruma, many people choose to buy a new one to set fresh goals for the coming year. This cycle of goal-setting, achieving, and giving thanks is a beautiful tradition that encourages perseverance and mindfulness.
Incorporating Daruma into Your Life
Whether you’re a visitor to Japan or someone who loves cultural traditions, the Daruma doll offers a meaningful way to set goals and stay motivated. Its simplicity and symbolism make it a cherished part of Japanese culture.
