Online dictionary of history and traditions in Japan: Daruma

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Daruma

達磨
alternative words: Darma, Bodhidharma, Daruma doll
keywords: buddhism , china , craft
related topics: Zen , Buddhism
related web sites: http://www.amie.or.jp/daruma/ , http://www.daruma.or.jp
explanation: Indian Buddhist priest, born in circa 470. He came to China to teach Zen doctrine but little is known about his real life. In Japan, he is popular through a doll showing his meditation posture in a red robe. Daruma doll of cocoon form appeared during Edo period at Takasaki city in Gunma prefecture to pray for a healthy growth of silk worms. Now people set it before any challenge such as an election by drawing one eye and will complete the eye when it becomes successful.


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