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The Japanese soul is indeed a unique phenomenon. It is very different from the European mindset. Japanese sages carry a certain restraint, clarity, and poetic wisdom that reflects a deep cultural understanding of life. Their proverbs express a worldview that often aligns with spiritual principles, though in a very refined and understated manner.
Take this saying, for example:
“It is better to be the enemy of a good person than a friend of a bad one.”
I agree completely. Even as someone’s enemy, you can still learn and grow from the example of a good person. However, being close to someone corrupt, someone whose qualities are negative, can only harm you. There is nothing to gain from it.
Another one is:
“Whoever strongly wants to rise upward invents a ladder.”
Yes, absolutely. Desire creates the means. If someone truly wants to grow, to rise above their current state, they will find the tools. It is the desire that generates the solution.
One with deep emotional wisdom is:
“Husband and wife should be like the hand and the eyes: when the hand hurts, the eyes cry, and when the eyes cry, the hands wipe the tears.”
That is a beautiful image. Mutual care and sensitivity is the the foundation of a deep, harmonious, and peaceful connection between people.
Now consider this more philosophical one:
“The sun does not know the righteous. The sun does not know the unrighteous. The sun shines not with the goal of warming anyone.”
That depends on your point of view. From one perspective, yes, the sun shines regardless of who you are. But if we are speaking spiritually, about the warmth that comes from the positive force of love, bestowal, and connection dwelling in nature, which we call “the Creator,” then no, it is not random. Everything is arranged according to a purpose. From the final goal, there is an arrangement of the myriad intermediate states in order to guide us to the final outcome. Everything is calculated.
“Even if a sword is needed only once in a lifetime, you must carry it always.”
That is true. The point is not the frequency of use, but your readiness. If you carry the sword, be it knowledge, awareness, or inner strength, you will be prepared when life demands it.
And this one:
“Grief, like a torn garment, should be left at home.”
This reflects a cultural strength, a stoic dignity. It does not mean to suppress grief, but to carry yourself with stability, to not fall apart in front of the world. That attitude shows inner discipline.
“When there is love, smallpox scars are as beautiful as dimples on the cheeks.”
Absolutely. Love does not just accept flaws but transforms them. As it is written in our wisdom: “Love covers all transgressions.” True love elevates everything.
“No one stumbles while lying in bed.”
Indeed, the safest way not to fall is not to move. But that is not life. Still, there is a certain wit in this expression. It acknowledges the tension between comfort and growth.
“Yield the road to fools and madmen.”
Yes, always. It is because you cannot reason with them, and confrontation will never lead to understanding. It is wiser to let them pass.
And finally:
“When parents work and children enjoy life, the grandchildren will beg for alms.”
That is the truth. Children must never be handed life on a silver platter. Loving them means preparing them for life, pushing them to develop, to take responsibility. Only then do they grow into capable, self-sufficient people. If we give them everything without effort, we ruin them, and their children will pay the price.
You see, these sayings might seem simple, but they reflect an understanding of human nature, responsibility, and inner development. When we examine them through the lens of Kabbalah, we see how they point at timeless spiritual principles.
Based on KabTV’s “News with Dr. Michael Laitman” with Kabbalist Dr. Michael Laitman on January 24, 2025. Written/edited by students of Kabbalist Dr. Michael Laitman.
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