NIHONGO Words of the Week--AUG 31

Osamu TEZUKA (手塚 治虫) (1928～1989), one of the most respected cultural figures of 20th century Japan, was a manga artist, cartoonist and animator. While arguably best-known for his series Astro Boy (1952-1968), he created more than 700 manga titles and drew more than 150,000 pages of manga in his lifetime – touching on every style and genre. He wrote for every age-group, from young children to mature audiences, and his pioneering techniques and innovative redefinitions of genres earned him the title of “Father of Manga.” 

He is quoted as having said:

“物語はここから始まるのだ。(monogatari wa koko kara hajimaru noda.)” 

Tezuka’s famous words, which can be translated into English as “the story begins here,” are a reflection of how the artist believed we can only exist in the “here and now” and, therefore, should not let ourselves be trapped by the past or anxious about the future.

As August comes to an end and September begins along with the start of school, there are many concerns in the face of uncertainties. Let the words of Osamu TEZUKA remind us to be grateful for each moment we have. In doing this may we find that happiness is something small, numerous and already present in our lives.

NIHONGO Words of the Week--AUG 17

Keisuke Honda is a Japanese soccer player who currently plays for Campeonato Brasileiro Série A Club Botafogo and also serves as the volunteer general manager and coach for the Cambodia National Team.

One of Japan’s most prolific professional athletes, known for his incredibly versatile style of soccer, the midfielder has received numerous awards, including AFC Asian Cup Most Valuable Player in 2011 and Best Footballer in Asia in 2013.

Honda has been quoted as saying「どこでプレーしても俺の成長はあるわけで。」(どこでプレーしてもおれのせいちょうはあるわけで; Doko de puree shitemo ore no seichou wa aru wakede). This means “No matter where I play, I always grow.”

His appearance in the J.League Cup as a Special Designated Youth Player in 2004, led to the start of his professional career in 2005. He has since played with 8 club teams, including AC Milan. Honda has also represented the Japan National Team on countless occasions, becoming a household name on an international level. Honda is known to be the top scoring Asian player in World Cup history and the only player to score a goal as well as assist in three (3) consecutive World Cups.

Honda’s drive to be the best he can be continues to propel him forward, and the 34-year-old is aiming to play for Japan in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.

No matter where Honda is playing, he approaches the game of soccer as an opportunity to learn from those around him.

As the school year begins somewhat differently this year, may「どこでプレーしても俺の成長はあるわけで。」 remind us of the importance of keeping an open mind as we never know what we might gain from new experiences and perspectives.

Here’s wishing everyone a successful 2020-2021 school year.

NIHONGO Words of the Week--AUG 3

Mitsuo Aida (1924-1991) is a Japanese poet and calligrapher. Influenced by Zen Buddhism, he describes his personal philosophy by utilizing his unique style of calligraphy to write phrases or short poems. He gained renown when his first collection of work, 「人間だもの」Because I am Human, was published in 1984. Having established a unique genre of art by combining calligraphy and short poems, he vigorously engaged in creating his work until his death in 1991.

One of his more famous phrases is「悩みはつきねえんだなあ、生きているんだもの」(なやみはつきねえんだなあ、いきているんたもの; nayami wa tsukineen danaa, ikiteirun da mono) which means, “Struggles are endless because that is the way humans live life.”

Mitsuo often uses colloquial male words in his poems, making his work characteristic and identifiable. The readers feel as as if they are being engaged in small talk. His casual language helps to facilitate his readers’ understanding and accepting of his philosophy. Combining his distinctive and dynamic brushwork with poetry creates a profound effect and helps send this message straight to the heart of his readers.

He uses spoken vocabulary in the phrase: つきねえ (tsukinee), which is a negative verb suffix for male slang speech of the verb つきない (tsukinai; never drains out), なあ (naa), which a casual suffix to express speakers’ feeling, and 生きているんだもの (いきているんたもの; ikiteirun da mono), which is an explanatory speech mode for a explanatory clause instead of 生きているから (いきているから; ikiteiru kara; because we live life).

As long as we live, worries will always be a part of our lives; a new problem will pop up immediately after an old one is resolved. It is important to face each problem and do our best to find a resolution. However, as we will never be free from troubles, it is important to take a step back, look at our lives, and appreciate what we have rather than focus on our challenges.

-Midori Ukita, JASH Language Coordinator

NIHONGO Words of the Week--Week 10

The practice of gasshō (合掌), pressing one's hands together in prayer, is said to come from Zen Buddhism and is a gesture used throughout Asia as a sign of reverence or greeting. Additionally, in Japan, the gesture is used before making an apology, a request, or partaking in a meal. It is culturally significant and a part of daily life, even to the point that most do not consider the deeper meaning behind the gesture.

However, there is a use of gasshō that actively encourages one to look deeper. When we are before a memorial for a loved one, we put our hands together in gasshō and either pray or sit in respectful silence. We take time to remember. The Japanese verb used in this situation is 偲ぶ (しのぶ; shinobu). The kanji character used in the word — 偲 — can be broken into two distinctive parts: to think (思) and person (人). To remember is to “think of the person.”

In this case, gasshō is considered a "reflection of oneself through the deceased." When gasshō is performed, we are called to consider the life of our loved one as well as reflect on our own lives and actions. How has our loved one’s life and actions guided our own? How have we lived in such a way that others may reflect through us?

Gasshō does not require religious connotations. This practice is an affirmation—an affirmation of our commitment to respect and care for the world around us in the same way that we would care for ourselves.

At a time when our communities are experiencing tremendous pain and anger, and as we mark the National Day of Mourning and Lament for those who have lost their life to COVID-19. We join Houstonians and citizens across America in pausing, reflecting, praying, mourning & honoring all those we have lost.

NIHONGO Words of the Week--Week 9

Akashiya Sanma is one the most influential comedians and talk-show hosts in Japan.  During a variety show one day, he blurted out the phrase, 「生きて いるだけで、まるもうけ」(いきているだけ、まるもうけ; ikiteiru dake, maru mouke), which he used to imply, “I profit just by living,” and the phrase had profound impact on viewers.

まるもうけ means to profit or to gain.  Japanese people tend to avoid the topic of profiting or gaining because the flip side may be exploiting someone else.  That being so, the word should be cautiously used to suit the time and place.

Sanma apprenticed himself to a professional comedic storyteller, Shonosuke Shofukutei. According to Sanma, Shonosuke liked to talk about a particular lesson from Zen Buddhism: 本来無一物 (ほんらいむいちもつ; honraimuichimotsu) meaning, “All things come from nothingness.” Shonosuke would use this phrase when he wanted to emphasis that desires often prevent people from doing what is in their best interest. However, as we were born with nothing and will die with nothing, it is absurd to cling to fortunes and social statuses. He wanted to remind his disciples how lucky they were to simply be alive. Sanma took this lesson to heart, and its influence is what lead to the conception of his wise phrase.

With the difficulties and fears the COVID-19 pandemic has brought, we have realized that staying safe and healthy is priceless and cannot be replaced by anything; inconveniences and complaints are not worth the same as a human life.

-Midori Ukita, JASH Language Coordinator

NIHONGO Words of the Week--Week 8

「実るほど、頭を垂れる稲穂かな」 (みのるほど、こうべをたれるいなほかな; minoruhodo, koube wo tareru inaho ka na) is the Japanese equivalent of the proverb “The boughs that bear most hang lowest” or “The more noble, the more humble.” 

実る (みのる; minoru) means ‘to produce’ (i.e., berries, fruits, kernels). Figuratively, this verb is used to mean ‘to accomplish.’

垂れる (たれる; tareru) is a verb commonly used to mean ‘to drip down,’ but the phrase 頭を垂れる (あたまをたれる; atama wo tareru) literally means to lower one’s head or to bow humbly.

かな (kana) is an old-fashioned suffix that is solely used for haiku nowadays in order to express a poet’s deep emotion. Its more modern equivalent is だなあ (danaa).

The word 稲穂 (いなほ; inaho) refers to a rice stalk.  Rice is the staple food in Japan as well as Eastern Asia and is the symbol of Japanese food culture.  The rice stalks bow down as they grow ripe and beautifully glisten in the sunlight during the harvest time.  The lower the rice stalks bow, the more grains they hold. Bowing is the expression for humbleness.  The Japanese people of the past likened this to the idea that the wiser a person becomes, the stronger sense of humility he/she develops.

The foremost figures and experts in any field are rarely ever satisfied with their achievements. As they continue to succeed and hold respectable positions, they realize there is always someone above them. They might feel that they are still in the middle of the long road to reach their goal. So, they would rather continue to strive for improvements in awe of the people above their rank, or in shame of having not finished their job, than brag about their accomplishments. Conversely, the shallow brag and bluff to cover up inabilities and hollowness, and end up with poor results.

In Japan, humbleness is a virtue reflected by the philosophy of Zen Buddhism.

The haiku-style proverb resonates during this time of crisis as lockdowns across the globe have led to a reexamination of virtues and values. The pandemic has served as a reminder that individual virtues are tied to civic virtues. We are humbled at this time and ever more aware that our personal sacrifices are connected to a broader public good.

-Midori Ukita, JASH Language Coordinator

NIHONGO Words of the Week--Week 7

「 フォースと共にあらんことを」(フォースとともにあらんことを; pronounced fo-su to tomoni aran koto wo) means,  “May the force be with you.”

It is widely known that George Lucas was a fan of Akira Kurosawa and that Kurosawa’s The Hidden Fortress was a great source of inspiration for Star Wars.

Lucas’ interest in Japan went beyond an admiration for Kurosawa’s filmmaking, and an appreciation for Japanese traditional culture in general pervades the Star Wars films.

From costumes reminiscent of samurai armor to the term “Jedi” being birthed from the Japanese word “jidaigeki,” the Japanese word for “period drama.” Not to mention, the Force having heavy leanings towards the teachings within the Bushido.

Learn more about the Japanese influence behind Star Wars here.

On this Star Wars Day, we not only celebrate a beloved franchise, we celebrate the influence of Japanese culture.

“May the 4th be with you!”

NIHONGO Words of the Week--Week 6

Hideki Yukawa (1907-1981) was a Japanese theoretical physicist and the first Japanese Nobel Laureate for his theory of mesons, which explained the interaction between protons and neutrons and was a major influence on research into elementary particles, the smallest and most basic constitutes of matter.

Yukawa initially published his research article in 1935, while Japan was in the midst of one of its darkest periods. Being aware that Japan was not in a favorable surrounding for scientific research between pre- and post-war periods, he continued his study in Japan.  He was offered a Visiting Professor position at Princeton University in 1948, and at Columbia University in 1949. That same year, he received the Nobel Prize in Physics for his prediction of meson proven by another scientist’s team lead by Cecil Frank Powell, which discovered the existence of pi-meson in 1947.

His phrase, 「一日生きることは、一歩進むことでありたい 」(いちにちいきることは、いっぽすすむすことでありたい；pronounced tsuitachi ikiru koto ha, ippo susumu koto de aritai) means, “To live fully each day is to take one step at a time.”  The saying reflects Yukawa’s determination to overcome obstacles and persevere in his daily life as a scientist even though he was in a disadvantageous research environment.

In the midst of COVID-19, may we all remember that we can still make progress despite challenging and restricting circumstances. Let us be hopeful that, today, we will do better than the days before and congratulate ourselves even if our progress is small.

—by Ukita-sensei

NIHONGO Words of the Week--Week 5

Kotaro Takamura was one of the most influential poets, painters, and sculptors during the late Taisho (1912-1926) and early Showa (1926-1989) era of Japan . Born in Tokyo in 1883, Takamura was the eldest son of the prominent sculptor, Koun Takamura. He studied sculpture and oil painting at Tokyo School of Fine Arts, and continued his study in New York, London, and Paris.  During his time in New York, he studied under John Gutzon de la Mothe Borglum, the sculptor responsible for Mt. Rushmore.

Following his completing his training in Paris in 1909, Takamura returned to Japan where he and his contemporaries were seen as revolutionary for incorporating Western techniques and styles into their artwork.

While Kotaro was an art student and discovering his calling as a sculptor, he struggled with constantly being in his father’s shadow.  Wanting his work to be known for its own merits, Takamura rebelled against his father’s teaching. It was only after an encounter with his the future wife, Chieko, that he was able to rebuild the distressed relationship.

「僕の前に道はない、僕の後ろに道はできる」 (ぼくのまえにみちはない、ぼくのうしろにみちはできる) (Boku no mae ni michi ha nai, boku no ushiro ni michi ha dekiru) is an excerpt of one of his most famous poems, The Journey/The Itinerary 道程 (どうてい). Translated, it says “No path lies before me. As I press on, a path appears behind me” (Arthur Binard).  Takamura declared his intention to be known as a trailblazer, creating a “path” for others to follow, expressing that while he is has been freed from his father’s influence, he admires his father’s accomplishments and respectfully acknowledges his father’s significant role in his life.

—by Ukita-sensei

NIHONGO Words of the Week--Week 4

Contact between Japan and China dates back to around 200 A.D., and the influence of China on Japan is as deep as it is long. From Buddhism to Confucianism and Taoism, continental Asian influences transmitted through or originating in China impacted Japanese art, philosophy, and literature. 

However, Japan had a way of adapting rather than merely adopting Chinese influences. Neo-Confucianism in the Tokugawa Era contributed to the development of the “Bushido” code of warriors. 

Neo-Confucianism also encouraged scholars to concern themselves with the practical side of human affairs. Commoners even began learning how to read and write through Confucian proverbs and poems translated into Japanese. Despite Japan’s difficult writing system, the literacy rate was about 60% at the end of 19th century. People wrote and hummed famous excerpts of these poems as wells as quotes from Chinese philosophers and theorists for wellbeing.

Proverbs rooted in Chinese philosophy still persist in everyday Japanese life, and the study of famous Chinese poems is still mandatory in contemporary Japanese high school curriculum.

One oft-quoted ancient Chinese philosopher is Lao Tzu, also known as Laozi, who is believed to have lived during the 6th century B.C. He is honored as the reputed author of Tao Te Ching and as the guiding figure and deity in religious Daoism (Taoism).

Beloved for his study of the Way and its virtue, Lao Tzu emphasized simplicity, spontaneity, tranquility, and non-action. One of his most famous phrases is 足るを知る (たるをしる; taru o shiru).

足る means ‘to suffice,’ and 知る means “to know”. The phrase is an excerpt from 「足るを知る者は富む」 (たるをしるものはとむ; taru o shiru mono ha tomu), which translates to “He who is content is rich” or “The wise man knows contentment.”

During this time of uncertainty and anxiety, when our lives are disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic and so many challenges persist, may we be reminded of all the blessings that we do have that enrich our souls and minds.

—by Ukita-sensei

NIHONGO Words of the Week--Week 3

This week’s phrase of the week" is from retired professional tennis player, TV personality and motivational speaker extraordinaire Shuzo Matsuoka.

Matsuoka first made his mark on professional tennis in 1991 by reaching the quarter-finals of the Canada Masters in Montreal. In 1992, Matsuoka became the first Japanese player to win a singles event on the ATP Tour. 1992 would also see Matsuoka place 2nd at a tournament at the Queen's Club in London.  However, Matsuoka’s greatest achievement would come in 1995 as he reached the quarterfinals at Wimbledon.  In the same year, following a match forfeited due to injury at the U.S. Open, tennis would name a rule after him to allow players treatment for cramps during a match.

Matsuoka, whose mental toughness has inspired the likes of tennis superstar Kei Nishikori, has said that he would often encourage himself during matches with the phrase “崖っぷちありがとう。最高だ。” (Gakeppuchi arigatou. Saikō da.)

崖っぷち (がけっぷち) means ‘an edge of a cliff’ and 最高だ (さいこうだ) means ‘the best’.  The phrase roughly translates to “Thank you for pushing me to the edge. This is life-changing!”  Matsuoka would say this to himself when he was at a critical moment in a match or when his opponent was going for the kill and he needed the extra push to continue giving his all.

Though it may seem paradoxical, it is true that people are more likely to showcase their utmost capabilities, or even push beyond their limits, when in dire straits.

When you find yourself on the verge of despair this week, remember that, with hope and determination, we will come out of this adversity stronger than ever.

In the face of COVID-19, may we all be empowered by Matsuoka’s words. Stay home and stay safe.

—by Ukita-sensei

NIHONGO Words of the Week--Week 2

「こけたら、立ちなはれ」(koketara, tachinahare) are words of wisdom from Kōnosuke Matsushita (松下 幸之助) (1894-1989).

Matsushita is the Japanese industrialist who founded Panasonic. Known in Japan as the “god of management,” he gained international prominence when John Kotter, a management academic and recognized authority on leadership, wrote a book called “Matsushita Leadership” (Simon & Schuster, 1997). The book won the Financial Times global business book of the year award and handed Matsushita the mantle of global leadership greatness. As Kotter noted, Matsushita was neither charismatically handsome nor internationally recognized. Nevertheless, he did what all great leaders do—motivate large groups of individuals to improve the human condition.

In his later years, Matsushita took to explaining social philosophy and wrote a number of books, including one entitled 「こけたら、立ちなはれ」. He also established a publishing company -- Peace and Happiness through Prosperity (PHP) -- that has long been delivering tips for a spiritually-enriched lifestyle.

「こけたら、立ちなはれ」is simple phrase in the Kansai dialect that translates to “Stand up if you fall down.”

こけたら (koketara) means “if you tumble”, and たちなはれ (tachinahare) is the standard Japanese equivalent of お立ちください, meaning “please stand.” Although ～なはれ (~nahare) is an old-fashioned suffix, Kansai comedians still use the expression playfully in their performances. こけたら (koketara) is more casual and playful than ころんだら (korondara)．Therefore, the phrase is congenial and conveys humor.

Matsushita often mentioned that, “If you stop where you have failed, then you fail; if you continue until you succeed, it will be your success.” Although Matsushita encountered early hardship, his never-ending thirst for learning and extraordinary perseverance empowered him to bounce back from setbacks and made him a prominent figure in the corporate world.

Matsushita’s words remind us that perseverance provides a pathway through challenges.

—by Ukita-sensei

NIHONGO Words of the Week--Week 1

なんくるないさー (nankurunaisaa) is Okinawan (or Ryūkyū dialect) for “everything is going to be okay.”

なんとかなるさ is the standard Japanese equivalent.　

The phrase comes from the saying “まくとぅーそーけ、なんくるないさ（ただしいことをしていれば、なんとかなるさ),” which translates to “If you stay honest, you can overcome difficulties.”

From ancient to modern times, people of the Okinawa Islands region of Japan have experienced hardships—from armed conflict to natural disasters.

The islands of Okinawa have long been prone to typhoons, earthquakes, and tsunamis.

To make matters worse, the Ryūkyū Kingdom  was unable to push back the invasion of the Satsuma Clan from Japan.  Since Okinawa was under the control of both Japan and China (Ming Dynasty and Qing Dynasty), the people of Okinawa were forced to pay heavy taxes for about 300 years. In addition, Okinawa is well-known as the location of the last and bloodiest battlefield of WWII, the Battle of Okinawa, which destroyed 90% of all buildings and historical landmarks and claimed 100,000 civilian lives.

Owing to these hardships, poverty was prevalent in Okinawa.

Although the initial purpose behind the phrase is unknown, the Okinawan people began to utter “なんくるないさー“ spontaneously to refocus their minds and move forward. They believe that things will take a favorable turn if they act with integrity and stay optimistic.

When the morning TV drama series ちゅらさん (chursan), featuring a girl from Okinawa, became a phenomenal hit, viewers were charmed by the beautiful sound of the phrase that her grandmother kept saying and “なんくるないさー“ became a popular phrase.

—by Ukita-sensei

Welcome to NIHONGO Words of the Week

As we practice social distancing, JASH wants to ensure you stay connected to Japan!

JASH’s Japanese language classes will be moving online in the coming days. As we make the transition, we are eager to help increase your Japanese vocabulary.

Every Monday, JASH Japanese Language Program Coordinator Ukita-sensei will be sharing a unique phrase to add to your Nihongo repertoire.

Follow the weekly posts here.