403 Otagaisama

“Otagaisama”

Editor’s note: Otagaisama is a Japanese phrase that means “we help each other when in need.”

The Japanese have been blessed with a rich environment since the Jomon age.
Consequently, a reverence for nature was nurtured,
And the wisdom to coexist with nature was born.
The Japanese appreciate their abundance of nature and live peacefully with it.

The Shinto religion emphasizes harmony with nature.
There are mountain gods that come from the mountains,
And sea gods that come from the sea.
The offerings made to these gods are products from the mountains and the sea.
These are dedications to these gods for being alive.

The name Shinto was coined after the arrival of Buddhism.
However, because the Jomon period lasted more than 10,000 years,
It is thought that the precursor of Shintoism was born during that time.

Nature in Japan is gentle but sometimes harsh.
There are many natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons.
However, it is in times of hardship that the Japanese strengthen their solidarity.
People unite their hearts to revive the country.
That is what the phrase “Otagaisama” means.

The Japanese should be more proud.
We have a long history and unique culture we should proudly show the world.
The Japanese respect harmony and display consideration for others.
We have a high level of spirituality that has been spread to everyone.
This is has been documented in the accounts of foreign visitors to Japan,
Since the end of the Edo period.

Japan was not created by chance.
There was great intention behind it.
The world is currently facing a crisis, with dark clouds gathering.
The cause of this crisis is entirely attributable to the human mind.
The world needs the spirit of “Otagaisama” now more than it ever has.
Only the Japanese can spread this message.