1.
daruma doll
A round, hollow Japanese doll modeled after Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism. Traditionally painted red with a bearded face, the doll is designed as a tumbler that always rights itself when knocked over. Used for goal-setting and as a good luck charm.
Alternate writing
- 達磨 (kanji form)
Etymology
- Named after 達磨 (Bodhidharma), who supposedly meditated for nine years until his arms and legs atrophied
- This explains the doll's armless, legless round shape
Traditional use
1. Buy a daruma with blank white eyes
2. Make a wish/goal and paint in the LEFT eye (左目)
3. When the goal is achieved, paint in the RIGHT eye (右目)
4. At year's end, return to a temple for だるま供養 (ritual burning)
Proverb
- 七転び八起き (Fall seven times, rise eight) - the tumbler design embodies this spirit of resilience
Famous production areas
- 高崎だるま (Takasaki, Gunma) - most famous
- 白河だるま (Shirakawa, Fukushima)
Colors
- 赤 (red) - traditional, good luck
- 白 (white) - academic success
- 金 (gold) - financial success
- Various modern colors available
Modern use
- Politicians display them during election campaigns
- Athletes and students use them for goal motivation
- Popular as New Year decorations