Did the Real Meaning of "Wa" Actually Mean "God"?
.png)
Hello there!
Out of the blue, how do you feel when you hear the phrase, "Japan is the land of Wa (harmony)"?
Actually, the true meaning of this word "Wa" is "God."
You might be thinking, "Uh, what are you talking about today?" But please bear with me for a moment.
■ The Abundance of "Wa" All Around Us
In Japan, there are countless words that start with "Wa."
Washitsu (traditional Japanese rooms)
Wafuku (traditional Japanese clothing / kimono)
Washoku (traditional Japanese food)
There are so many examples that it's impossible to count them all. Moreover, traditional Japanese goods and souvenirs characterized by this style of "Wa" are incredibly popular among tourists visiting Japan from abroad.
■ Why "Wamono" (Japanese Goods) Are Masterpieces
No matter which product bearing the name of "Wa" you look at, they are all made with highly precise and elaborate techniques. They are absolute masterpieces, born from creators who pour their hearts into putting themselves in the user's shoes and engaging in endless trial and error.
Why do we call something that seems like a mere object at first glance "Wa"? The reason I claimed that its true meaning is "God" actually lies in this very "process through which a single object is created."
When Japanese people make traditional goods, they invest an immense amount of time and effort into every single step. There is a dwelling spirit, or a spark of God (Wakemitama), in the deep care and intention poured into crafting something so diligently. Since ancient times, Japan has had a spiritual concept based on this idea of "divided souls."
■ The Creator's Energy (Ki) Dwelling in Objects
You could call it the creator's "intent" or "Ki" (spiritual energy), but whatever it is, it seeps right into the created object.
This means that the reverse is also true. If someone crafts an object while harboring dissatisfaction, frustration, or sadness, that object will be filled with negative energy and dark intent.
For example, what do you think about the energy of products or goods from companies where people work from morning till night, getting physically and mentally ragged—the so-called "black companies"? In light of ancient Shinto views, these are things you wouldn't really want to have around you.
🖋️ Editor's Note (Preview of the Next Post)
Actually, this sincere attitude of Japanese people toward craftsmanship stems from the workings of our "genes" passed down from ancient times.
This might suddenly sound like some strange religious doctrine, but the very root of all kinds of religions is Japan's Koshinto (ancient Shinto, characterized by nature worship and ancestor veneration).
Next time, I would like to delve deeper into "our gratitude to great Mother Nature," which we tend to forget, and "the negative side effects that logic and theories have created in modern society."
(To be continued in Vol. 2)
Gassho (With palms joined in prayer)
Asahi Hanasaki
From this land of prayer, I, Asahi Hanasaki, am introducing the "Harmony of Wa" to the whole world.
I am a delivery driver in Japan who also helps protect and maintain a traditional Shinto shrine and Buddhist temple. Balancing these two worlds gives me a unique perspective on modern society. Through my writing, I aim to share the warmth of mutual aid and help readers find the courage to live another day.
コメント
コメントを投稿