Among Japan’s many cultural symbols, the Daruma doll stands out for its rich history, striking design, and deep spiritual meaning. Often seen in homes, temples, and businesses across Japan, these rounded, red-faced dolls are more than decorative trinkets—they embody determination, resilience, and the pursuit of personal goals.
Origins and Historical Background
The Daruma doll traces its origins to the historical figure Bodhidharma, a Buddhist monk traditionally credited with founding the Zen school of Buddhism in the 5th or 6th century CE. According to legend, Bodhidharma meditated in a cave for nine years without moving, an act of extreme discipline that caused his limbs to atrophy and fall off. This tale inspired the creation of the limbless, round-bodied Daruma dolls, which always return to an upright position when tilted—symbolizing persistence and the Japanese proverb nanakorobi yaoki (七転び八起き), which means "fall down seven times, get up eight."
The Daruma’s origins are believed to be linked to the city of Takasaki in Gunma Prefecture, where the first Daruma dolls were made by farmers in the 17th century as a charm for good harvests. Over time, the Daruma became more than just an agricultural talisman and evolved into a symbol of personal and communal aspiration.
Symbolism and Design
Traditional Daruma dolls are red, hollow, and weighted at the bottom, making them self-righting when pushed over—a physical manifestation of resilience. Their faces are painted with fierce, wide-open eyes and thick eyebrows and mustaches resembling cranes and tortoises, symbols of longevity in Japanese culture.
One of the most distinctive features of the Daruma doll is its blank eyes. When a person sets a goal, they paint in one eye while focusing on their wish. Once the goal is achieved, they fill in the second eye to signify the completion of their journey. This practice reinforces a sense of commitment and accountability, turning the Daruma into a motivational companion.
Although traditionally red, modern Daruma dolls come in a variety of colors, each associated with different meanings—gold for wealth, white for love or purity, black for warding off bad luck, and green for health.
Daruma in Modern Japanese Life
Today, Daruma dolls are a common sight during the New Year and at election times, when politicians paint one eye of a Daruma in hopes of victory. Temples and shrines also host annual Daruma fairs (Daruma-ichi), where people return their old dolls and purchase new ones, renewing their hopes and ambitions for the coming year.
In business, Daruma dolls are used to signify milestones or targets. It’s not unusual to see a Daruma sitting on a company’s reception desk with one eye painted, waiting for the fulfillment of a major goal such as launching a product or hitting sales figures.
The appeal of the Daruma transcends religion and status. It resonates with anyone facing challenges, striving for personal growth, or embarking on new ventures. Its form reminds us that setbacks are part of life—and getting back up is what truly counts.
A Cultural Icon of Hope and Tenacity
What makes the Daruma doll enduringly relevant is its simplicity coupled with profound meaning. In a fast-paced, ever-changing world, the Daruma quietly encourages us to stay true to our goals, to endure hardship, and to celebrate perseverance. Its constant presence in Japanese homes, businesses, and spiritual spaces is a testament to its powerful symbolism.
Whether you’re setting a new resolution, starting a business, or recovering from failure, a Daruma can be both a talisman and a teacher—a cheerful reminder to never give up.
References:
Ashkenazi, Michael. Handbook of Japanese Mythology. Oxford University Press, 2003. ISBN: 9780195332629.
Moeran, Brian. Folk Art Potters of Japan: Beyond an Anthropology of Aesthetics. Routledge, 1997. ISBN: 9780700704523.
Hearn, Lafcadio. Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan. Tuttle Publishing, 2006 (originally published in 1894). ISBN: 9780804834092.