Online dictionary of history and traditions in Japan: Daruma

This is the online Japanese dictionary developed by Free Light Software. With our tool, you can find easily an equivalent Japanese word from English, or send queries to Japanese search engines without knowing Japanese translation. Click on a Japanese word to browse in Japanese search engines. Click on a globe icon to find the position of a locality on Japanese map (maybe take a few seconds to display). The dictionary of Japanese general terms is available at Online Japanese dictionary.

French version

Daruma

達磨
alternative words: Darma, Bodhidharma, Daruma doll
keywords: buddhism , china , craft
related topics: Zen , Buddhism
related web sites: http://www.amie.or.jp/daruma/ , http://www.daruma.or.jp
explanation: Indian Buddhist priest, born in circa 470. He came to China to teach Zen doctrine but little is known about his real life. In Japan, he is popular through a doll showing his meditation posture in a red robe. Daruma doll of cocoon form appeared during Edo period at Takasaki city in Gunma prefecture to pray for a healthy growth of silk worms. Now people set it before any challenge such as an election by drawing one eye and will complete the eye when it becomes successful.