JAPAN IN
ONE MINUTE 
~ Why Do Japanese People Display “Daruma“? Discover the Meaning Behind Japan’s Lucky Charm ~
Hey Issy and Almis, what’s that red faced figure by the entrance?
It looks a little scary at night.
Oh, that’s a “Daruma“. But I don’t really know what “Daruma” means.
Why do Japanese people display it?
In Japan, it’s a very popular lucky charm symbolizing perseverance and determination to succeed.
People often use it to make wishes or set goals.
I see! But why does it look like that?
The origin of “Daruma” comes from a monk named Bodhidharma, who came from India in the 5th or 6th century.
He is known as the founder of Zen Buddhism.
According to legend, he meditated for nine years while facing a wall, which caused his arms and legs to fall off.
I see. That’s why the “Daruma” doesn’t have any arms or legs!
However, I noticed something strange about that “Daruma“.
It only has one eye painted in… Why is that?
Great observation! When you get a “Daruma“, both eyes are blank at first.
You paint in one eye, usually the left one from your perspective, while making a wish or setting a goal.
It’s important not to complete the “Daruma” from the beginning, isn’t it!
Exactly! Leaving the “Daruma” with one eye painted symbolizes that the goal is still in progress.
It’s a reminder to stay focused and not give up.
Interesting… So what happens when the wish comes true?
That’s when you paint in the other eye to show that the goal has been fulfilled.
It’s like completing a promise you made to yourself.
I love that idea! I want a “Daruma” too!
Where can I get one?
They’re especially popular around New Year’s, and you can find them at temples and souvenir shops.
Just pick one, make a wish, and paint the first eye!
Summary
“Daruma” is a traditional Japanese good luck charm that symbolizes perseverance and goal setting. People paint in one eye when making a wish and complete the other eye once the wish comes true.
