The Significance of the Number 7 in Japanese Culture
Japan is a country steeped in tradition, and one of the most intriguing aspects of this culture is the importance placed on certain numbers. Of these, the number 7 is perhaps the most fascinating. Here we explore why 7 is considered a lucky number in Japan.
Origins of Lucky Number 7 in Japan
The origins of the lucky number 7 in Japan can be traced back to ancient times. In Shintoism, one of Japan’s oldest religions, there are seven lucky gods (Shichifukujin) who are believed to bring good fortune and blessings. Each god represents a different aspect of life, such as wealth, happiness, or longevity.
Lucky Number 7 in Buddhism
Buddhism also plays a significant role in Japanese culture, and it too has connections to the number 7. According to Buddhist teachings, there are seven levels of consciousness that a person must pass through on their journey to enlightenment. Additionally, the Buddha is said to have taken seven steps immediately after his birth, signifying his spiritual enlightenment.
Seven Days of the Week
The number 7 is also significant because it corresponds to the seven days of the week. In Japan, each day is associated with a specific deity or celestial body. For example, Sunday is associated with the sun goddess Amaterasu, while Saturday is associated with the god of wisdom and learning, Tenjin. This association with religion has made 7 a popular number for good luck charms and talismans.
Seven Colors of the Rainbow
Another reason why 7 is considered lucky in Japan is due to its association with rainbows. Rainbows are made up of seven colors (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet), which are said to represent good fortune and happiness. This connection has made rainbows and their colors popular motifs in Japanese art and culture.
Seven Wonders of Japan
Japan is home to many natural wonders and historical landmarks. In recent years, there has been a movement to recognize seven specific sites as “The Seven Wonders of Japan.” These sites include Mount Fuji, Himeji Castle, and Miyajima Island. The selection of seven as the number of wonders further cements its significance in Japanese culture.
Seven Lucky Foods
During New Year’s celebrations in Japan, it is customary to eat seven lucky foods (nanakusa-gayu) on January 7th. These foods are thought to bring good luck and health for the coming year. The seven ingredients typically include rice porridge with herbs such as water dropwort and shepherd’s purse.
Seven-Five-Three Festival
The Seven-Five-Three Festival (Shichi-go-san) is a traditional celebration held on November 15th for children aged 7, 5, or 3 years old. The festival is meant to celebrate their growth and well-being as they transition into new stages of life. It is customary for children to dress up in elaborate traditional clothing and visit shrines with their families.
Popular Culture References
The number 7 has also been immortalized in Japanese popular culture. For example, there’s the anime/manga series Naruto, where the protagonist’s ninja team consists of seven members. Additionally, many popular Japanese video games feature seven characters or bosses for players to defeat.
Unlucky Numbers in Japan
While seven is considered lucky in Japan, other numbers hold negative connotations. The number four (shi) sounds similar to the word for death (shi), making it an unlucky number. Likewise, the number nine (ku) sounds similar to the word for suffering (ku).
Conclusion: Why Seven Is A Lucky Number In Japan
In conclusion, the number seven holds great significance in Japanese culture due to its connections with religion, nature, and historical landmarks. It represents good fortune, blessings, and positive energy. Whether it’s through traditions like nanakusa-gayu or modern pop culture references like Naruto’s team of seven ninja warriors – it’s clear that this number will continue to play an important role in Japanese society for years to come.
What is the meaning of 7 in Japanese?
The number seven can be pronounced as either “nana” or “shichi” depending on the context.
What is the holy number in Japan?
The number eight has been considered sacred by Japanese people since ancient times, with many believing that it holds special powers.
Why is 7 a lucky number?
According to Bible scholars, God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh day. This is why the number seven is often used to represent completeness in the Bible. Similar to the Bible, both Islam and Judaism also believe in the existence of seven heavens.
What number is superstition in Japan?
The numbers four and nine are considered unlucky in Japan due to their pronunciation. The number four sounds like the word for death, while the number nine sounds like the word for agony or torture. Some buildings, such as hospitals and apartments, avoid using these numbers in their room numbering system.
What is seven sin in Japanese?
The Seven Deadly Sins is a manga series created by Nakaba Suzuki, originating from Japan and featuring elements of fantasy.
What letter looks like 7 in Japanese?
In Japan, the number 7 is believed to be lucky, but its pronunciation “shichi” includes the sound “shi” which is associated with death, so the alternate pronunciation “nana” is often used instead.
In addition to its cultural significance, the number 7 also has practical applications in Japanese society. For example, many Japanese train lines have seven cars, making it easier for passengers to know where to board and exit. Similarly, many convenience stores in Japan offer discounts on items purchased in sets of seven.
The number 7 is also commonly used in business and marketing. Companies will often release products or promotions with the number 7 in the name or price point to appeal to consumers’ desire for good luck and positive energy. For example, a restaurant may offer a “lucky seven” meal deal or a clothing store may have a “7 days of savings” promotion.
Overall, the importance of the number 7 in Japanese culture cannot be understated. From religious beliefs to daily life, this number holds a special place in the hearts and minds of Japanese people. Whether it’s through traditional festivals or modern marketing tactics, the lucky number 7 will continue to be a prominent aspect of Japanese society for generations to come.