JAPANESE PROVERB

This extremely popular proverb is repeated over and over to children and young people in Japan in an effort to produce conforming adults—felt to be best for the Japanese culture and society. Individualism has traditionally been suspect.

There are many societies of the world where at one time spousal abuse was common and the superstitious thought that it improved the quality of family lives. These were the same societies that thought that storms and natural disasters were the punishment of the Gods, that saw no relationship between disease, infection and cleanliness—sanitation, freedom and happiness. This quotation shows us how far we have come as humans.

The proverb dates from the Samurai era of Japan where the Samurai in battle wore metal and leather protective helmets. These were secured to their heads by a tight helmet chord. Many societies, after a war and desiring peace would reduce the spending for the military, eliminate conscription, and weapons production. The result often was a more attractive target for enemies wanting land or revenge. Thus, the proverb warns that immediately after a victory, prepare for the next battle and do not let your guard down.

When there has been a great king or general in Japanese history, the children have rarely lived up to the potential of the father. There are many who observe that statistically this is quite likely for a number of reasons.