Traditional Daruma Japan

Daruma: The Japanese good luck charm

Darumas are traditional Japanese dolls with a very characteristic shape: round, without arms or legs, and with a big smile. They are much more than just ornaments, as they represent a deep connection with Japanese culture and beliefs.

Origin

The daruma originates from Bodhidharma , an Indian Buddhist monk who introduced Zen to China. It is said that during his long meditation sessions, Bodhidharma lost the feeling in his limbs, which is why darumas are depicted without arms or legs.

In Japan, Bodhidharma is revered as the founder of Zen and his image was stylized over the centuries, giving rise to the darumas we know today.

What is it for?

Darumas are considered good luck charms and are used for:

• Making wishes: Before painting the daruma's eye, a wish is made. Once this has been achieved, the other eye is painted as a symbol of gratitude.
• Symbolizing perseverance: Having no arms or legs, the daruma represents determination and perseverance to achieve goals.
• Protect against bad luck: Darumas are believed to have the power to protect their owners from misfortune.

How to use a daruma

1. Choice: Darumas are usually painted red, but they also come in other colors, each with a different meaning.
2. Formulating the wish: Before painting the first eye, a clear and specific wish is formulated.
3. Painting the first eye: One eye of the daruma is painted as a symbol of the intention to achieve the goal.
4. Perseverance: During the time it takes to achieve the wish, the daruma is placed in a visible place as a reminder of the goal.
5. Painting the second eye: Once the goal has been achieved, the second eye is painted as a symbol of gratitude and the process can be repeated with a new wish.

Symbolism

• Red color: Represents good fortune and happiness.
• Lack of arms and legs: Symbolizes perseverance and determination.
• Smile: Represents joy and positivity.

In short, darumas are much more than just decorations. They are an expression of Japanese culture, a symbol of hope, perseverance and good luck. By acquiring a daruma, one also makes a commitment to oneself to achieve one's goals and live a full life.

Would you like to know more about any other characteristic of Darumas or about other Japanese traditions? At Hostenatura you will find everything about Darumas and you can buy them in the Hostenatura online store.